Acupuncture

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​Acupuncture may be defined as the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to produce a healing response. Each acupuncture point has specific actions when stimulated. This technique has been used in veterinary practice in China for thousands of years to treat many ailments. The Chinese also use acupuncture as preventative medicine. Acupuncture is used all around the world, either along or in conjunction with Western medicine, to treat a wide variety of conditions in every species of animal. Clinical research has been conducted showing positive results in the treatment of both animals and humans, and the use of acupuncture is increasing. Acupuncture will not cure every condition, but it can work very well when it is indicated.

Laser Therapy

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Laser Therapy is the use of specific wavelengths of light (red and near-infrared) to stimulate the body's natural ability to heal.  The effects of laser energy include improved healing time,​ pain reduction, increased circulation and decreased swelling.  In palliative care, the use of KLaser therapy can reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility, and assist in the healing of wounds. 

In-Home Consultations

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There are many reasons why people choose an in-home visit.  Patients with mobility issues may have difficulty getting into a vehicle, anxious patients may become overly stressed by travel and in-hospital visits, and in dealing with upsetting news, many clients feel more comfortable being at home.  Whatever the reason, in-home visits allow you to receive professional veterinary care without the struggle involved in getting your pet to the hospital.

Professional Pain Management

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Meeting pets in their home environment allows us to observe subtle signs of pain that can often be masked by a surge of adrenaline that frequently accompanies a visit to the hospital. 

When pain is identified, we work with you to develop a pain management plan that may include any or all of the following:  massage, chiropractic care, acupuncture, herbal therapies (including hemp-based products), nutritional supplements, laser therapy, heat/cold therapy, at-home exercises, and of course, prescription pain medication.

Laboratory Testing and Drug Monitoring

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As many chronic diseases progress, the focus of treatment also changes.  Periodic laboratory tests can help us adjust your pet's treatment plan to provide the best palliative care options available.

For pets on chronic medications, routine blood monitoring can allow us to ensure they are receiving the ideal dosing, and when necessary, make changes to their medicine

Nutritional Consultation

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Just like in human hospice care, the enjoyment and nutritional importance of a good meal cannot be under-estimated.  We will review your pet's current diet and appetite, and offer professional advise on an appropriate prescription diet for your pet's medical condition, review home-prepared dietary options, and when needed, provide appetite stimulants to ensure they continue to receive the necessary nutrients for health.

Chiropractic

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In concert with appropriate veterinary care, many specific musculo-skeletal conditions are well addressed by animal chiropractic. In addition, numerous animal care-takers understand the value of chiropractic in the over-all health and wellness of their dogs, cats, horses and other animals. Benefits of animal chiropractic include, enhanced performance, function and quality of life.

Grooming

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As pets age, they can become less flexible and loose the ability to groom themselves.  Nails can become long, fur matted.  These can cause discomfort to our pets.  When indicated, we can provide basic grooming assistance such as nail trims and shaving of matts, using gentle sedation when necessary.

Mobility Support

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Studies have shown that most of our senior pets have some degree of arthritis, which often progresses to difficulties getting around.  Other conditions that affect the muscles, bones, and neurological systems can also impair our pets' mobility.  We can assist in findings ways to support your pet using medications, therapies, and mobility aids such as slings, harnesses, and wheeled carts, as well as doing an environmental assessment and offering suggestions to make your home more "pet-friendly" during this time of their life.

Cannabis Consultations

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The use of medical cannabis is rapidly growing in human medicine, and similar medical benefits are to be expected with pets as well.  Current legislation prohibits the prescription of medical cannabis for pets, including CBD oil.  However the growing number of pet owners with legal, medical access to cannabis increases the potential for pets to be exposed to cannabis inadvertently, or medicated by well-intentioned owners.  It is important that as we move forward in this area, that we maintain open communication to discuss not only the potential therapeutic benefits, but also the risks of cannabis use in pets, and continue to encourage more research in this area.  Greenwood Veterinary House Call Services is happy to engage in this conversation with you, and discuss the current state of knowledge as it pertains to veterinary use, as well as cannabinoid medicine in general.

Environmental Assessment

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When we perform a hospice visit, we are not only assessing your pet, but also the environment in which he or she lives.  We will often be able to make suggestions to improve their access to common living spaces, bathroom areas, etc.  These may include improved floor traction, improved stair safety, bedding changes, litter box access, etc.  If you are interested in making any modifications in the home (ie. outdoor ramps), we can even recommend a trade carpenter to help!

In-home Euthanasia

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When you and your veterinarian have decided that the time has come to say goodbye, our doctors can assist your pet's passing in the comfort of your home.  Your pet will receive initial sedation (typically by an initial injection), and only once relaxed and comfortable, will a final intravenous injection be administered to complete the euthanasia process.  If desired, a hair clipping can be provided for keepsake.

After care services provided by Gateway Pet Memorial can be coordinated for you, and following euthanasia, we will transport your pet to prepare for cremation.  Alternatively, we can allow your pet to remain with you, for family-directed after care.