Chinese Herbal Formulas and your pet
Chinese Herbal Formulas are very specific mixtures of herbs; up to 20 different herbs may be combined to make a formula. Some of these formulas have been in use for hundred’s if not thousand’s of years. Your animal’s formula may also have been modified to make it specific to their particular requirements.
The majority of Chinese Herbal Formula’s used by Acupaws are in the form of granules, these can be mixed in your pet’s food. The herb granules are increased in quantity over a number of days. This is so the pet can get used to eating them in the food, and also allows the body to become accustomed to them.
The most common side effect associated with the introduction of herbal formulas is gastrointestinal e.g. diarrhea, vomiting. This is unlikely if the herb is introduced slowly, but if it occurs stop the herbs and feel free to contact me. I will probably suggest re-introducing the herbs at a lower dose for longer.
If you are concerned a Chinese Herbal Formula has caused other symptoms in your pet, please let me know as this occurrence can provide vital information in the diagnostic process.
How do Chinese Herbal Formulas work?
Your pet has been diagnosed using Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine techniques, looking at their signs and symptoms together with other information you have provided. A pattern or a number of patterns of disharmony that have caused your pet’s problem have been identified and a very specific Chinese Herbal Formula selected. This formula should help address your pet’s underlying issues and bring their system back into balance.
Sometimes a series of formulas may be required as your pet recovers. This is why reassessment and regular feedback is very important. It is not uncommon if your pet suffers from a digestive weakness, that a formula to strengthen this may be required first before other formulas are used.
With the correct Chinese Herbal Formula you should see changes in your pet within a few weeks
What if my pet won’t eat the Herbs?
By introducing the granules slowly, your pet should gradually get used to the herbs. If there is a problem, try a small amount of the formula in a favourite food e.g. sardines, mince, cottage cheese, yoghurt.
It is possible to make the formulas up into capsules or use products where the formula has been compounded into small pills.
Are Chinese Herbs Safe?
Individual Chinese Herbs and Formulas used by Acupaws are of the highest quality; sourced from companies following internationally recognised Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). GMP ensures that every step of the production process is monitored, from the growing of the herbs to harvesting, storage and bottling of the end product. The herbs are tested for purity and to make sure they are free from contaminants such as aristocholic acid, heavy metals and pesticides. The herbs used for your pets are the same herbs used in formulas for people.
Can I use the herbs with other medication my pet is taking?
During your initial consultation information regarding what other medications and supplements your pet was taking was gathered. This information has been taken into account when selecting your pet’s Chinese Herbal Formula. Please let me know if there is any change or addition to this information.