A variety of services is offered by Calm Spirit, and are listed below. Scroll or click on the topic for more information.
Acupuncture
Chinese Medicine
Western Medicine
Nutritional Consultation
Diagnostic Testing
Wellness Exams
Health Certificates
Surgery and Dental Care
End-of-Life Care
Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture is a treatment method used for a wide variety of ailments. This ancient Chinese therapy consists of stimulating specific points on the surface of the body by insertion of fine, solid needles. Acupuncture points are sometimes also stimulated by the application of heat (moxibustion,) laser, pressure, or low-level electricity. The stimulation of acupuncture points balances the body's energy, (Qi), and results in pain relief. In addition, acupuncture promotes a sense of well-being and directs the entire organism toward healing. Neurological and hormonal factors mediate the balancing of Qi in the body.

Sparky resting with acupuncture needles.
Acupuncture is used to adjust blood flow, stimulate nerves, alter muscle tone, alter hormone levels and improve the function of internal organs.
Acupuncture needles are very fine, solid, flexible stainless steel. Each needle is new, and comes wrapped in a sterile package. Needles are never re-used and are disposed of after use on your pet. Each needle has a tapered tip that separates rather than cuts tissue of the skin as it is placed. The needles are generally inserted two to four millimeters deep, causing minor and brief discomfort. Many animals relax and sleep deeply during and after an acupuncture treatment. Generally, the needles are left in place for five to 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. The number of treatments needed for each condition is variable with one to three treatments per week for four to six weeks as standard. Ongoing communication about response to therapy is very important, as each treatment is adjusted according to the response. After the initial problems are resolved, sometimes periodic "tune-ups" are employed at one to three month intervals, depending upon the condition and response to therapy.

Dr. Allen with acupuncture patient, Rexe
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Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was developed over 4000 years ago with an intricate system for diagnosis and treatment of disease based on meticulous observation. Traditional methods of treatment are approached holistically: the entire body, lifestyle, climate, nutritional elements and environment are evaluated. Treatment methods might include dietary changes, sleep and exercise recommendations, acupuncture, herbs and moxibustion. In traditional Chinese medical theory disease results when the vital energy (Qi) of the individual is out of balance. Pathological factors might influence Qi, or Qi might be blocked, depleted, or inaccessible. Therapeutic herbs and acupuncture can be utilized to restore proper flow of Qi within the body enabling healing to occur.
In the United States of America, most holistic veterinary practitioners of TCM employ both Western and Chinese aspects of diagnosis in the formulation and implementation of a treatment plan.

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Western Medicine
Many allopathic (Western) medical services can be provided in your home. These services include examinations, consultations, second opinions, and routine medical care. Vaccinations, diagnostic testing, minor wound care, pain management, nutritional consultation, and end-of-life care are some of the medical services that can be administered in your home.

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Nutritional Consultation
Nutrition is a very important aspect of general health care for our pets and ourselves! An evaluation of your pet's diet and how it might be adjusted will be discussed at your appointment.

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Diagnostic Testing
In order to combine the best of East and West, I frequently recommend blood and urine testing. After we obtain appropriate samples, I will submit them to a local laboratory for analysis. Results are generally obtained within two days, depending on the test requested. We will then discuss the results and further recommendations either at a follow-up appointment at your home, or by telephone.
Radiology, ultrasound, CT scanning and MRI are available on a referral basis.
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Wellness Examinations
Did you just get a new puppy or kitten, or perhaps you have adopted a new pet from a local shelter? I would love to check him out see if he is healthy and help identify signs to watch for. With any new pet, it is a great idea to have an exam to make sure you are not bringing unknown diseases or parasites into your home, and to discuss issues such as behavior, environment and dietary recommendations.
Darling baby gets a check-up !

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Health Certificates
Health certificates are required for travel with your pets to Canada and by air. Most airlines require a health certificate issued within ten days of travel. Be sure to check with the airline as to any restrictions on travel, the size of the carrier, or other requirements. A current rabies certificate with proof of vaccination, and the address of your destination are required for the issuance of a health certificate.
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Surgery and Dental Care
I am able to perform anesthetic procedures such as day-surgery and dental treatments at the Animal Hospital of Lynnwood. The address of the hospital is
6501 196th Street SW , Lynnwood, WA 98036
Scheduling is done through my office, so please call me at 206-890-5577 for an appointment. A pre-anesthetic appointment is required before scheduling surgery or dental procedures.

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End-of Life Care
One of the most difficult decisions we face as pet owners is when or whether to euthanize our beloved companions. Sometimes serious illness results in severe physical or mental suffering and poor quality of life. While it is never easy to make and carry out these decisions, I believe euthanasia can be the correct choice in some circumstances. You might ask yourself some of the following questions: Is he comfortable most of the time? Is she able to eat and drink and go to the bathroom? Can he rest and breathe comfortably? Does she still purr and enjoy being petted? Does she enjoy keeping you company? If allowed to die a natural death, what is that likely to be like for him? Is pain management still effective? Do we have a reasonable diagnosis and prognosis based on medical assessment?
I will do all I can to help you arrive at the best decision for you and your family. If euthanasia is selected, the option of providing this service in the comfort of your home is optimal, and I am happy to be able to offer this service.
The word "euthanasia" means "good death." In providing a humane euthanasia, I will give sedation so your pet is not frightened or worried, then follow this with an intravenous injection of medicine that is an anesthetic over-dose. My goal is a peaceful, painless death without fear or anxiety.
Cremation services are available upon request.

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