Integrative Medicine
Dr. Fong with Pet
VCA San Francisco Veterinary Specialists
Complementary & Integrative Veterinary Medicine
Complementary and integrative veterinary medicine services at VCA San Francisco Veterinary Specialists are offered to clients seeking a totally holistic care regimen for their pets, or as a supplement to Western veterinary care. Our holistic services are truly unique, as we are able to work hand-in-hand with a variety of onsite specialists when appropriate, from oncologists to internists to dermatologists, ensuring the most effective, high-quality treatment for your pet.
Download an intake form prior to your visit!
*Please note our two holistic practitioners use separate intake forms. Select the one appropriate for the doctor your pet will be visiting.
Overview
The holistic approach to veterinary medicine is excellent for preventive care and health optimization, as well as treatment of chronic conditions. Holistic modalities, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, are used to balance the “whole” animal, so that
your friend can heal and maintain the highest possible quality of life. What makes holistic treatments different from more traditional care is that they are customized to the whole pet, not just to the disease.
The techniques used in holistic medicine are gentle and minimally invasive. During appointments, we focus on the patient’s well-being and stress reduction. As part of ongoing treatment or a general wellness plan, our holistic specialists provide the following services:
- Acupuncture
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Chinese Herbal Medicine
- Homeopathy
- Nutritional counseling
- Chiropractic treatments
We work with clients to teach them how to help their companion animal maintain good health. Holistic medicine can be used to address most conditions, including the following:
- Musculoskeletal problems, such as arthritis and hip/elbow dysplasia
- Rehabilitation after an injury or a surgery
- Chronic degenerative diseases
- Cancer
- Allergies
- Chronic sinusitis
- Asthma
- Gastro-intestinal problems, such as irritable bowel disorder
- Kidney, liver and other organ failures
- Pancreatitis
- Depressed immune system function
- Behavioral issues, such as fear and aggression
- Anxiety, insomnia and stress
- Skin allergies and other dermatologic conditions
What to Expect at the Initial Consultation
Appointments take place in the upstairs area of our two-story building, away from the “hustle and bustle” of the reception area. Our holistic treatment rooms are designed to be pleasant, quiet and soothing, for both the animal patient and the human.
During the initial consultation, the specialist will give your pet a comprehensive physical examination. In addition, the specialist will gain a thorough understanding of your pet’s behaviors, medical history and home environment (including diet, usual surroundings,
any emotional stressors and other factors).
Related Resources
Complementary & Integrative Medicine Brochure
American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association Website
International Veterinary Acupuncture Society Website
"Pet Acupuncture" TV News Segment (Dr. David Fong)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does your facility provide parking for clients?
Yes we do!
Option #1: Street parking in the area is available throughout the day with no 2 hour parking limits (Overnight parking subject to street sweeping 12am-6am, see posted street signs for specific limitations.)
Option #2: Erie Auto Body - Adjacent to the side of our building at 3014 18th Street at Harrison St. we have 4 designated spaces for client use. Simply pull up into any of the 4 stalls being mindful not to block the entrance to the auto body shop's garage door.
Option #3: Parking Garage - If you still cannot find a spot pull up into the white loading zone directly in front of our main entrance, check in at the front desk and we will give you directions to our garage. It is merely 2/3 of a block down the street at 660 Alabama.
Please note parking for longer than 10 minutes in the white loading zone is not advised as San Francisco Department of Public Transportation frequently patrols the area and will ticket your vehicle.
In an Emergency ...