While relatively new to the Western world, TCVM is a medical system that has been used in China to treat animals for thousands of years. The basic philosophy of TCVM is based in the idea that our bodies are a microcosm of the entire universe and thus laws that govern the external world can affect our internal bodies.

The concept of “Qi” as an innate life-force within the universe and our bodies is central to TCVM theory and practice. The balance and preservation of Qi provides good health and can help treat and correct disease processes. The four cornerstones of TCVM that help balance Qi include Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Tui-Na (massage) and Food Therapy.

Pattern diagnosis in TCVM is different from Western medicine as the focus is not so much on the symptoms of disease but how the disease came to be and how it affects the patient as a whole. From this prospective we also strive to work on prevention whenever possible rather than long term medications or narrow treatment strategies to treat symptoms alone.

TCVM and Western medicine have strengths and weaknesses. Often the best approach for most pets is a blend of the the two modalities to utilize the best of both for our companions. Dr. McKerney is trained in both types of medicine and can help you determine what may be best for your family.