In order to best treat each horse individually, Henderson Equine employs multiple therapies that complement our western veterinary medicine techniques. Dr. Bonny is currently the only doctor at the clinic certified to provide acupuncture and chiropractic services, but Dr. Lauren and Dr. Emily are happy to advise you when they may be beneficial to your horse. Dr. Bonny uses these alternative therapies to treat all species, including horses, dogs, and cats.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) Principles to treat a variety of body systems, including musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and dermatological. An acupuncture treatment will involve an evaluation of the patients system and an evaluation of many of the acupuncture points for sensitivity. A disease pattern will be identified and then specific points will be chosen for treatment. This may involve placing a needle, injecting B-12 solution, or applying heat or electrical stimulation to the point. See more about the history and methodology of acupuncture here.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic adjustments are especially beneficial for performance horses, but all horses can benefit from the freed range of motion that an adjustment can provide. A chiropractic exam tests the range of motion of your horse’s joints in order to identify fixations (decreased motion). A chiropractic adjustment is the application of a very focused, quick thrust to a specific joint. Although horses are large animals, the force is applied so quickly and specifically that it travels through the muscle mass and affects the joint. To read more about chiropractic adjustments and how they might benefit your horse, click here.