Brix

Brix is a Fire-constitution dog who clearly expressed his temperament during treatment and did not tolerate electroacupuncture or aqua acupuncture.

Examination Findings: Brix sustained a left cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear several months prior and continues to show a mild limp in the left rear limb. The tongue was pink with a slight lavender hue and mildly sticky. Pulses were deep and thin, with overall weakness noted bilaterally and the right side weaker than the left. The hair coat was dry. Body temperature was normal, with no strong temperature preferences observed. On palpation, Brix was sensitive from BL-21 to BL-24, with marked sensitivity from BL-42 to BL-52.

Western Diagnosis: Left cranial cruciate ligament tear.

Eastern Diagnosis: Stagnation along the spine, Liver Blood deficiency, Mild Qi deficiency.

Treatment Principles: Clear stagnation, tonify Liver Blood, and tonify Qi.

Treatment Provided: Due to limited tolerance, only a short treatment with a small number of needles was performed.
Acupuncture (DN): GV-20, GV-14, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, right GB-34, GB-41, LI-4, and LIV-3.

Brix was started on Tendon Ligament granules (90 g).

Charcoal

Charcoal is a 6–8-month-old male neutered mixed-breed dog weighing 35 pounds with a Water constitution.

Examination Findings: Shen appeared normal, though a volunteer reported signs of depression. The tongue was bright pink, moist, and without coating. Pulses were wiry. The hair coat was dry. Ear tips and nose were neutral in temperature with normal moisture. Appetite was decreased, attributed in part to depression, and Charcoal was noted to have tapeworms. He preferred cool, hard surfaces. Sensitivity was noted at ST-36, LIV-8, and GB-34.

Western Diagnosis: Partial tear of the right cranial cruciate ligament.

Eastern Diagnosis: Stagnation of the right stifle.

Treatment Principles: Clear stagnation at the right stifle and nourish and strengthen the ligaments.

Treatment Provided: Manual stimulation was applied to LI-4.
Acupuncture (DN): GV-20, BL-17, BL-20, SP-10, LIV-8, ST-36, GB-34, and LIV-3.

Ezra

Ezra is a 6–8-month-old female spayed mixed-breed dog who had been at the humane society for approximately four days at the time of treatment. A Fire constitution, Ezra showed a strong interest in the needles placed in her feet and required close monitoring during treatment. No photos were taken during treatment.

Examination Findings: Ezra demonstrated marked hind limb weakness and ataxia, with difficulty coordinating movement and frequent falling to either side while walking. Shen was bright and alert. The tongue was pink with no coating. Pulses were wiry. The hair coat was dry with fine dandruff throughout. Ear tips and nose were warm and moist. Appetite was good, and no clear temperature preference was noted. It was unknown whether radiographs had been performed prior to treatment.

Eastern Diagnosis: Stagnation affecting the hindquarters with Jing deficiency.

Treatment Principles: Clear stagnation, strengthen the hind limbs, and tonify Jing.

Treatment Provided:
Acupuncture (DN): GV-20, GV-14, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, KID-3, KID-6, LI-4, LIV-3, SP-9, BL-62, and GB-34.
Aqua acupuncture: ST-36, BL-40, and KID-10.

Brix

Charcoal

Meet Little Mama, a gentle black and white kitty with a heart of gold. Estimated to be about 7 years old, she was brought to the shelter by a kind-hearted Good Samaritan after being found in need of care. From the beginning, Little Mama has been easy to treat, charming everyone she meets with her calm demeanor.

Upon arrival, initial bloodwork revealed elevated liver enzymes. While her exact history remains a mystery, we suspect she experienced exposure to a toxin along with some form of trauma. Fortunately, thanks to attentive care, her liver values have shown steady improvement over time.

May 9, 2023 – Initial Assessment

At her first exam, Little Mama was quiet and withdrawn. Her tongue appeared red, dry, and lacked coating—signs that pointed us toward an Eastern diagnosis of Liver Yin Deficiency with Spleen Qi Deficiency. Her pulse was weak, fast, and thin, and her extremities felt cool to the touch. Palpation revealed sensitivity at Jian-jiao and LIV-14, with noticeable depression at BL-18.

She showed decreased water intake and preferred soft, warm spots to rest. While she hadn't vomited or produced any stool, her appetite was minimal—though she favored canned food over dry. Her mobility was limited: both rear legs resisted extension, and she was reluctant to walk. A physical assessment suggested the right ilium was positioned more cranially than the left.

Western Diagnosis: Hepatitis (suspected toxin exposure) with possible trauma
Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Yin Deficiency with Spleen Qi Deficiency
Treatment Focus: Tonify Liver and Spleen

Acupuncture Points Used:
GV-20, GV-14, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, BL-18, BL-19, BL-21, ST-36, LIV-3, LIV-14, ST-25, Shan-gen (to stimulate appetite)
Aqua B12: 0.5 ml at BL-18

Dr. Brannan also demonstrated acupressure techniques to the veterinary technicians.

May 18, 2023 – Progress

Lula has lived at the Marion County Humane Society for the past two years. She has an Earth constitution and is described as very sweet. A follow-up treatment was scheduled for two weeks later.

October 11, 2022

History: Generalized arthritis and overweight.

Examination Findings: The tongue was pale pink and slightly dry. Pulses were deep and weak, with the left side weaker than the right. Shen was good. The hair coat was dry and dull. Ear tips were warm, and the nose was cool. Lula preferred sleeping on either a cooling bed or a soft bed. A decreased range of motion was noted in the hocks.

Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis.

Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with mild Kidney Yin deficiency and Blood deficiency.

Treatment Principles: Clear local stagnation in affected joints; tonify the Kidneys and Kidney Yin; and tonify Blood.

Acupuncture Treatment: DNAP: GV-20, GV-14, BL-11, BL-17, BL-23, Bai-hui, BL-60 to KID-3, GB-40, LI-4, KID-3, and SP-3.

October 27, 2022

Examination Findings: Shen was quiet. The tongue was pale and dry. Pulses remained deep, with the left weaker than the right. The hair coat was dry with flakes, and the paw pads were dry. Body temperature was normal to cool. There was a decreased range of motion in the hocks, and Lula was reluctant to fully extend her hips. She coughed when the trachea was palpated and was wearing a harness.

Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis, particularly affecting the hips and hocks.

Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with Kidney Qi deficiency and Liver Blood deficiency.

Treatment Principles: Clear the channels over affected joints; tonify Kidney Qi and Liver Blood.

Acupuncture Treatment: DNAP: BL-17, BL-18, BL-23, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, BL-54, SP-10, ST-36, GB-40, LI-10, and SP-6; Aqua acupuncture with vitamin B12: GB-29, GB-30, and GB-40 (on the side that could not be needled), and CV-22.

April 2023 Follow-Up

Lula had been doing well since her previous appointment in October 2022.

Examination Findings: Shen was excellent. The tongue was pale pink with a lavender hue, moist, and without coating. Pulses were deep and weak, with the left side weaker than the right. The hair coat ranged from normal to slightly dry. Body temperature was warm, though she had recently been outside in hot weather. Food and water intake were normal, as were urination and feces. Lula preferred soft surfaces. Behaviorally, she interacted well with some dogs, though certain dogs—particularly Fire or Wood constitutions—could trigger reactivity.

Western Examination: Right rear stifle and rear leg lameness had resolved. No reactive or sensitive points were identified. A sprain or partial tear of the right cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) was noted to be healing.

TCVM Examination: Local stagnation with Liver Blood deficiency.

TCVM Treatment Principles: Clear stagnation and tonify Liver Blood.

Treatment Provided:

• Acupuncture (DNAP): GV-20, GV-14, BL-17, BL-18, right ST-36, right GB-34, right LIV-8 (patient showed mild reactivity), Bai-hui, Shen-shu (right side sensitive to needling), and right GB-41.
• Herbal therapy: Concentrated Tendon Ligament capsules (0.5 g), two capsules twice daily.
• Tui-na therapy: Rou-fa and Nie-fa over BL-18; Rou-fa over the lateral right stifle.

During treatment, Lula’s tongue became a rosy pink, as documented in her photo.

May 18, 2023

Lula slept through her entire treatment and snored. She showed a preference for lying on the cool floor.

Examination Findings: Shen remained excellent. The tongue was rosy pink with a slight lavender hue and no coating. Pulses were deep and weak, with the left side weaker than the right. Body temperature was warm, though she had been outside in hot weather. Mild sensitivity was noted at Jian-jiao. Food and water intake were normal but slightly excessive, as some weight gain had occurred. Urination and feces were normal. Lula no longer limped on her right rear leg following the previous CCL injury. Her caregiver reported that she typically gallops to her run when being brought in. This visit was performed as a “tune-up” treatment.

Western Diagnosis: Partial tear or strain/sprain of the cranial cruciate ligament—resolved.

Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Yin deficiency with mild Kidney Yin and Qi deficiency.

Treatment Principles: Tonify Liver Yin and Kidney Yin/Qi.

Treatment Provided: DNAP: GV-14, BL-18, BL-23, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, ST-36, GB-34, SP-9, LIV-8, KID-3 (left), BL-60 to KID-3 (right), LIV-3, and GB-41; Aqua acupuncture with vitamin B12: 1 ml at Jian-jiao and 1 ml at BL-54.

Lula completed two bottles of donated Concentrated Tendon Ligament capsules (0.5 g), three capsules twice daily.

Meet Lula!

Acupuncture needles working during her first visit

Close up during AP treatment; dryness can be seen

Pink tongue during April treatment

'Missy' is part of a feral colony in Ancon, Panama which is fed daily by kind neighbors. She was believed to be hit by car around June 29, 2022, causing injuries to her pelvic area which resulted in neurological deficits in the tail. Missy was unable to raise her tail and there was no pain perception in the tail.

Surgical intervention with tail amputation was performed on August 19. Post-surgery, her ambulation was ataxic in the rear end and urinary incontinence was reported. The caretaker explained the situation and Missy was selected as a candidate for IVM-GO program. Unfortunately, only one treatment would be possible due to leaving Panama the next day.

About Missy:

• Calico, F/S, Age unknown; estimating less than 2 years.
• Exam: Tongue - red; Too fractious to take pulse; There was a fecal ball in the rectum which was easily expressed. Dry skin.
• Western Diagnosis: Fecal Retention and Urinary Incontinence
• Eastern Diagnosis: KID Qi Deficiency with possible KID Yin Deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment Principle: Tonify KID Qi/ Yin Deficiency; Qi Stagnation in colon
• Acupuncture Method: Aqua-AP with Vitamin B12 1000 IU/ml 0.1-0.2 mls injected at BL-28, GV-1/CV-1, Shen Shu, Bai-Hui, BL-65, KID-1

The caretaker reported she did not look constipated the following days and had some pep to her step. No limping or waddling was reported. She was released to re-join the colony on September 9. At this time, Missy is doing great and is described as a "social butterfly." She remains happy, healthy and doing well. This case shows how even just one aqua-AP treatment can help balance grumpy cats.

Great news: Cannoli has been adopted by his Humane Society foster! His new owner reports that Cannoli is moving more easily in both rear legs and getting along well with owner's other dog.

February 2022 | Last Treatment at MCHS

Exam: Right eye - red and tearing, non-pruritic; Tongue: pale pink, wet and slightly slimy; Pulse: superficial and forceful; Cool-seeking on hard surface; Sensitive on BL-36.

Western Diagnosis: Conjunctivitis/Medial Patellar Luxation

Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Heat/Liver Yin and Blood deficiency/Phlegm secondary to Spleen Qi deficiency

Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Liver Heat/Tonify Liver Yin and Blood/Transform Phlegm and tonify Spleen Qi

Acupuncture Method:

• GV-14: Clear Heat and tonify Yin
• BL-18/19: tonify Liver Yin and Blood and benefit the eyes
• BL-20: transform Phlegm and tonify Spleen Qi
• BL-23: benefit the hind end
• GB-34: Influential point for tendons/ligaments; local point for the stifle
• LIV-8 to tonify Liver Yin and Blood and local point for the stifle
• ST-35a/b: stifle pain and ligament disorders, local point for the stifle
• GB-1/14/37: local and distal eye points (doesn't allow distal needles)

Tui-na Treatment: An-fa and Rou-fa at LIV-3 and GB-41 to clear the channels

March 2022 | First Home Visit

Cannoli is doing great at his new home and has continued treatments with Dr. Brannan. His food aggression with his new canine housemate has decreased.

Exam: Tongue: Pink, wet, no coat; Pulse: wiry, weaker on the left; Body temp: warm - cool-seeking, but improving to more neutral, likes bedding more; Shen: great! No sensitive points; Hot spot present between BL-62 and BL-64 and also below GB-34; Eyes are tearing, slightly pink.

Western Diagnosis: Medial Patellar Luxations, Hot spot dermatitis, Mild conjunctivitis

Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Yin and Blood deficiency, External Wind and Damp Heat

Acupuncture Treatment: Tonify Liver Yin and Blood, Expel Wind and clear Damp Heat

Acupuncture Method: GV-14/BL-18/BL-19/BL-20/LIV-8/GB-34/ST-35a/GB-37/BL-65/GB-41/LIV-2/GB-1/ST-1/BL-2

April 2022 | Follow-up Visit

Home life appears to be agreeing with Cannoli—perhaps a bit too well—as he is currently 15 pounds overweight. That said, he continues to show encouraging signs of progress over the past month, including some weight loss, indicating that he is moving in the right direction. Cannoli was somewhat uncomfortable during a few of his treatments earlier this month, likely reflecting both his physical challenges and the rainy Florida weather. By the end of the month, however, his demeanor had noticeably improved, and he was in better spirits during his treatments.

Exam: Tongue: red to purple and wet, mildly slimy; Pulse: fast, wiry, weaker on the left; Body temp: warm

Western Diagnosis: Medial Patellar Luxation

Eastern Diagnosis: Local Stagnation at stifles and hips; Phlegm with Yin Deficiency and Qi Deficiency

Acupuncture Treatment: Clear local Stagnation; Clear Heat; Clear Phlegm; tonify Yin and Qi

Acupuncture Method: Aqua B12 at An-shen; DNAP at GV-14/BL-18/Bai-hui/Shen-shu/BL-54/ST-36/GB-34/SP-9/ST-40/ST-41/LIV-3/KID-3/BL-60

May 2022

The owner reports that Cannoli’s tongue is pink at home and no longer slimy. Cannoli is typically pretty restless at the start of his appointments; however, his tongue returns to a healthy pink color shortly after treatment begins. The owner also notes that Cannoli may take a few attempts to get up and down before settling comfortably, but he is sleeping well and moving very well overall. Food-related aggression toward his housemate (a female pit bull) has resolved. The other dog is now able to approach his food bowl, and Cannoli shows no signs of aggression. Notably, Cannoli has lost some weight, as the owner has reduced his food intake.

Exam: Tongue: red, then pink; Pulse: superficial, soft wiry, weaker on the left; Skin: red between toes, but drier today; Hot spots resolving

Western Diagnosis: MPLs; mild allergic pododermatitis

Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Yin and Blood deficiency; Damp Heat in the feet; Local Stagnation at stifles; Liver Qi Stagnation (resolving)

Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Local and Liver Qi Stagnation and Heat; Tonify Liver Yin and Blood; Drain the Damp

Acupuncture Method: DNAP at GV-14/BL-18/BL-20/BL-23/Bai-hui/BL-54/ST-36/GB-34/SP-9/LIV-3/KID-3

July 2022

Cannoli now plays with the female pit bull in the household for approximately 20–30 minutes, which represents a clear improvement compared to previously, when he would tire after only a few minutes of activity. He is also comfortable allowing her to eat from his food bowl.

Exam: Tongue: pink and wet; Pulse: fast, strong, but weaker on the left; small areas of hair loss on legs; right eye has epiphora and is mildly red; Stifles are thickened and MPL on left side is present.

Western Diagnosis: MPLs: Grade 2 on Left side; Grade 1 on right side

Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Yin and Blood Deficiency with Stagnation at the stifles

Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation at the stifles, clear Liver Heat, tonify Liver Yin and Blood

Acupuncture Method: DNAP at GV-14/BL-18/BL-23/Bai-hui/Shen-shu/GB-34/LIV-2/LIV-8/KID-3/GB-37/GB-1/ST-1

Tui-na: Rou-fa on BL-18; Rou-fa around the orbits with attention to GB-1 and ST-1

Cannoli with his new owner!

Dry needle acupuncture treatment

April | Progress Update

Behr Doodle is doing well, but the increasing humidity in Florida isn't agreeing with him and has resulted in increased stagnation. Dr. Brannan expects Summer Heat to make Behr Doodle's clinical signs worse. Cooling herbs would be helpful to combat the environmental concerns. He is also eating dry kibble, which is hard on the Spleen, creating Heat and Phlegm.

• Exam: Tongue is slimy and bright pink with lavender; pulse is fast, wiry, slippery, and weaker on the left; BL-52 is sensitive on palpation
• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis of the hips
• Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with Kidney Yin Deficiency. Stagnation at the hips +/- lumbar region with Phlegm
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation at the hips; Transform Phlegm; Tonify Kidney Yin
• Acupuncture Method:
  
  • DNAP: GV-14, BL-20 (sensitive), BL-23/52 (sensitive), Bai-hui, Shen-shu, BL-54, ST-40, LV-3
  • Aqua B12: An-shen, GB29/30

May | Progress Update

Before examination, Behr Doodle was playing outside, so he was hot and preferred the cool, hard floor. The left hip had good extension, but the right hip had slightly less extension and Behr Doodle resisted holding the position for very long.

• Exam: Red to pink, wet tongue; Pulses: superficial, soft wiry, weaker on the left. 
• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis of the hips
• Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with local Stagnation at the hips; Kidney Yin deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation at the hips and tonify Kidney Yin
• Acupuncture Method: He has a thick, constantly wagging tail which makes electroacupuncture difficult.
  • DNAP: GV-20, GV-14, BL-23, BL-52, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, BL-54, KID-3, LIV-3, GB-41, ST-36
  • Aqua: BL-54/GB-29/GB-30 bilaterally

July | Progress Update

Overall Behr Doodle is doing better getting up and moving around. He can hold rear legs in full extension for a few seconds. It is very hot now and he doesn't get to go outside for very long. Behr Doodle would benefit from Di Gu Pi herbal formula twice daily - donations are needed to fill his prescription.

• Exam: Pink and moist tongue; sensitive on Shen-peng and Shen-shu
• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis of the hips
• Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with some local Stagnation at the lumbo-sacral area, Kidney Yin deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear affected channels, Clear Stagnation, tonify Kidney Yin
• Acupuncture Method: Dry needle at GV-14, BL-23, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, Shen-peng, Shen-jiao, BL-54, GB-41

At 2 months old, 'Coco' was rescued from the street by Fundación Rayito, a non-profit organization that rescues abandoned dogs/cats. He was born without both front limbs. He has undergone surgery for patellar luxation, femoral head excision for hip dysplasia, and a hemilaminectomy for a thoracolumbar hernia. Coco has a Wood personality.

• Clinical signs: severe cervical pain, pants all day, PD/PD, has bad temper that is getting worse, persistent thrombocytopenia, severe pruritus at the tail, lumbar area, and thighs
• Pulse: weak, weaker at left
• Tongue: red-purple and wet
• Western Diagnosis: Cervical pain and pruritus
• Eastern Diagnosis: Jing and Yin deficiency, Cervical Qi stagnation, Liver Qi stagnation, wind
• Treatment Principles: Tonify Jing and Yin, Disperse Liver Qi stagnation and move stagnant Qi at the cervical area, eliminate wind
• Acupuncture Treatment: GV14+Bai hui (Electro); BL23, BL18 (DNAP); GB21, GB20 (Aqua)

May 22 | Follow-Up

• Pain scale 8/10
• Pruritus: 10/10

Chi-Peru CVA students participated in the treatments at Fundación Rayito in an extracurricular activity during session 2 of the CVA course.

June 16 | Follow-Up

• Pain scale: 5/10
• Pruritus: 7/10

In the second treatment, the owner reported a significant reduction in pain and pruritus during the first 10 days post-treatment. The symptoms began to return afterward, though not as severely as the first time.

In April 2022, Dr. Doris Reategui, along with a team of local specialty veterinarians, responded to assist homeless dogs affected by an oil spill. The veterinary team provided critical care to dogs found on the beach, addressing a range of health concerns including uveitis, jaundice, underweight conditions, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and upper respiratory disease. Blood work was performed, and internal and external parasites were treated. 

From a TCVM perspective, all the dogs were diagnosed with Qi deficiency, reflecting multiple underlying conditions.

• Acupuncture Principle: Tonify Wei Qi
• Acupuncture Treatment: BL-13/18/19/20/21/23 (only Bladder points were selected due to dogs' temperaments)

Two puppies in particularly critical condition were transported to the city for hospitalization. 'Tatiana' presented with uveitis, severe thrombocytopenia, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, diarrhea with a strong odor and blood, and very low energy. 'Chimbotana' showed very low energy, diarrhea with a strong odor and blood, vomiting, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, a strong pulse, and a pale tongue.

From a Western perspective, both puppies were diagnosed with ehrlichiosis and presumptive chronic hydrocarbon intoxication; confirmatory testing for the latter was not performed due to budget constraints. From a TCVM perspective, diagnoses included Wei Qi deficiency, Spleen Qi deficiency with damp accumulation, and damp-heat in the liver.

The acupuncture treatment plan focused on tonifying Wei Qi, strengthening the spleen, draining damp, and clearing heat. Aqua-acupuncture was performed at BL-18/19/20/21/23.

At their follow-up appointment in June, the dogs are healthy and ready for adoption. Thanks to the efforts of our veterinary team, much-needed medical attention was provided to these vulnerable animals during a challenging environmental crisis.

Thank you to our wonderful volunteers

Dr. Doris Reategui treating a patient on the beach

Chimbotana and Tatiana, who needed a little extra care

Healthy and ready for adoption!

January | First Visit

Meet Behr Doodle, an 8-year-old Rottweiler mixed breed. He was surrendered to the Marion County Humane Society for frequently escaping and exploring his neighborhood. He is a free-spirited Earth constitution, Cool seeking, and prefers hard surfaces.

• Exam: Sensitive at BL-23
• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis of the hips
• Eastern Diagnosis: Bi syndrome of the hips, Kidney Qi Deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear local Stagnation at the hips and tonify Kidney Yin
• Acupuncture Method: Dry needling, electro acupuncture, and aqua
• Herbal Recommendation: Di Gu Pi and Body Sore
• Tui-na: Rou-fa and Pai-fa

February | Follow-up Visit

Behr Doodle is doing well and enjoying his weekly visits with Dr. Brannan.

• Exam: Pink tongue; Pulse: full, left side weaker than right; BL-20-->BL-23 sensitive on the right side
• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis at the hips
• Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with Kidney Yin deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation at the hips and along the spine; tonify Kidney Yin
• Acupuncture Method:
  • Dry needle: GV-20; Bai-hui and Shen-shu for L/S and coxofemoral pain; BL-20/23 to tonify Spleen and Kidney and to clear sensitive areas by the spine; SP-9 and KID-3 for Yin deficiency; LIV-3 for Stagnation and to clear the channel; ST-36 to strengthen rear legs.
  • Electro: GB-30-->GB-30 (F1=20, F2=0 for 10 min; F1=80, F2=120 for 10 min)
  • Aqua with B12: BL-54 and GB-29, bilaterally

March | Follow-up Visit

Behr Doodle was treated twice this month. He is still getting treatment for his arthritis and he has started showing signs of pain in his knees as well as his hips.

• Exam: Bright pink and wet tongue; pulse weaker on the left; warm and wet nose; Likes cool, hard surfaces
• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis at the hips and knees
• Eastern Diagnosis: Bi Syndrome with Kidney Yin and Qi deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation from hips and knees; tonify Kidney Yin and Qi
• Acupuncture Method:
  • Dry needle: GV-20, GV-14, BL-23, Bai-hui, Shen-shu, BL-54, ST-35, ST-36, GB-34, KID-3, GB-41, LIV-3, GB-21
  • Aqua with B12: GB-29/GB-30

Behr Doodle - feeling sleepy during first treatment

Hip electroacupuncture

During his first follow-up visit at MCHS on August 17th, Conrad greeted everyone with enthusiasm, offering plenty of kisses before happily settling in to relax during his treatment. Compared to his previous visit, he showed noticeable improvement—his Back- shu points (BL-18) and Jian Jiao were no longer sensitive on exam. There was no change to report regarding his diarrhea at this time.

• Western Diagnosis: Possible hip dysplasia or early arthritis; painful hips; soft feces; dog aggression
• TCVM Diagnosis: Local stagnation of the rear limbs and joints; Liver Qi stagnation; Spleen Qi deficiency
• Treatment: Clear stagnation in the rear limbs, soothe Liver Qi, and tonify Spleen Qi

By October, Conrad was doing great. MCHS staff reported visible improvement in his rear-limb movement, which was encouraging to see. While his stools remained soft, they were beginning to firm up. A hookworm issue was also identified and addressed. Conrad continued to do very well during his treatments, and although he was clearly adored by staff, everyone hoped this sweet boy would soon find his forever home.

On exam, Back-shu points BL-20 and BL-21 showed some sensitivity during needling.

• Western Diagnosis: Possible hip dysplasia or early arthritis; painful hips; soft feces
• TCVM Diagnosis: Mild Spleen Qi deficiency; local stagnation (improving)
• Treatment: Clear local stagnation, soothe Liver Qi, tonify Spleen Qi
• Acupuncture Method: Dry needling and aqua-acupuncture

In December, Conrad continued to show overall improvement in movement, although he had recently slipped, leading to some discomfort. He was feeling a bit fussy during this visit and didn’t allow Dr. Brannan to take photos. On exam, BL-18 and BL-20 were sensitive.

• Western Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis of the hips
• TCVM Diagnosis: Local stagnation in the hips; mild Spleen Qi deficiency
• Treatment: Clear local stagnation, tonify Spleen Qi, soothe Liver Qi
• Acupuncture Method: Dry needling, electroacupuncture, and aqua-acupuncture
  

In January, Conrad was taken in by a pit bull rescue. We wish him the best of luck!

Cannoli was surrendered to the Marion County Humane Society due to his skin issues. He also has a history of some patella and hip issues. He did great for his treatment in November 2021 by Dr. Brannan, but he didn't like the aqua-acupuncture and got a bit grumpy during it. He loves his Tui-na treatments and lays down and relaxed during the process. MCHS employees have noticed improvement in his gate throughout the month. 

About Cannoli

• 6 years old (approx.), MN
• Fire constitution
• Food aggression with other dogs
• Western Diagnosis: Subluxating patella (right worse than left), arthritis in hips and knees
• TCVM Diagnosis: Liver Blood Deficiency, Local stagnation at stifle, mild Spleen Qi deficiency
• Treatment Principles: Tonify Liver Blood, Clear Stagnation, Tonify Spleen Qi
• Treatment Plan: Tui-na massage; dry/electro/aqua acupuncture; herbal formula Concentrated Tendon Ligament Weakness was recommended, but donations are needed to fill the prescription

December 2021 | Progress Update

Cannoli is making steady progress and is moving more comfortably, with a clear reduction in stiffness.

• Exam: Sensitive at ST-36
• Western Diagnosis: Weak tendons
• Eastern Diagnosis: Liver Blood Deficiency, Phlegm from Spleen Qi Deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Transform Phlegm, Tonify Spleen Qi and Liver Blood
• Acupuncture Method: Dry needling, some aqua

January 2022 | Progress Update

Upon examination, Cannoli's pulse was slippery and wiry. He improved after acupuncture, with less sensitivity at ST-36.

• Western Diagnosis: Medial luxating patellas (right worse than left), Otitis in the right ear - treating with Western medicine
• TCVM Diagnosis: Liver Blood Deficiency - weak tendons, Ear Damp Heat, Phlegm from Spleen Qi Deficiency
• Acupuncture Treatment: Transform Phelgm, Clear Damp Heat from ear, Tonify Liver Blood, Tonify Spleen Qi
• Acupuncture Method: Dry needling
• Herbal Recommendation: Tendon Ligament formula
• Tui-na: Rou-fa
  

Cannoli during his first treatment

Cannoli receiving electro-AP

Dr. Connie Clemons-Chevis evaluated Jupiter, a one-year-old male Cocker Spaniel, on August 24 after he was struck by a car on August 12. Following the accident, Jupiter was unable to stand, had no bowel control, and was diagnosed with Grade 4 spinal cord compression at L4–S1 involving the cauda equina.

Due to the severity of the trauma, stabilization surgery was required. Because the owner had limited financial resources, the clinic offered a 50% discount to help make the procedure possible. Fundraising and securing financial support took over a week, after which Jupiter underwent stabilization surgery using four screws and bone cement. At that time, the prognosis for regaining hind limb function and urinary or fecal control was guarded.

Following surgery, Jupiter remained paraparetic with intact deep pain sensation. He had no voluntary urinary control, resulting in urine saturation of the ventral abdomen, inguinal region, and hind limbs, and he had no anal tone. Given these challenges, the clinic requested Dr. Clemons-Chevis’s support for post-operative care through acupuncture. Through the IVM-GO program, she assumed responsibility for Jupiter’s integrative post-surgical rehabilitation, providing ongoing treatment and support for both Jupiter and his owner.

Patient Information

Age: 1 year

Sex: Male

Breed: Cocker Spaniel

Constitution: Wood

Behavior: Aggressive; attempted to bite veterinary staff

History: Hit by a car

Western Diagnosis: Post-surgical Grade 4 spinal cord compression at L4–S1; paraparesis with urinary and fecal incontinence

Eastern Diagnosis: Qi stagnation at L4–S1 (Bladder meridian), Kidney Qi deficiency, Wei Syndrome, and Bi Syndrome

Initial Treatment Plan

Treatment Principles: Clear Qi stagnation and tonify Kidney Qi.

Acupuncture Method: The Veterinary Balance Method was used, including SI (Systems 1 & 5), LU (Systems 2 & 4), BL (System 6), and the following points:

• Thoracic limbs: SI-1, SI-2, SI-8 (right); LU-5, LU-7, LU-11 (left)
• Pelvic limbs: BL-40, BL-60, BL-64 (left); KID-1, KID-2, KID-3 (right)

Electroacupuncture: Bai-hui + Wei-jian; BL-23 to BL-35 (F1: 40 Hz × 10 minutes; F1-80 / F2-120 Hz × 20 minutes)

Additional Therapy: Laser therapy was performed on an ulcerated lesion on the right rear central pad using a MyPet Laser (setting #3) for five minutes.

Clinical Response

Jupiter showed notable improvement within one day of his first acupuncture treatment, including voluntary movement of his hind limbs and attempts to stand. Urinary control improved, with the ventral abdomen and inguinal region remaining dry, although urine could still be expressed with abdominal pressure. Fecal continence showed minimal early improvement.

After one week of treatment, Jupiter was able to stand and walk short distances. Pain in the lumbosacral region appeared significantly reduced, and healing of the ulcerated lesion on the right rear leg was ongoing.

Follow-Up Treatment | August 31, 2021

Treatment Principles: Continue clearing Qi stagnation and tonifying Kidney Qi.

Acupuncture Method: The same Balance Method systems were used, with limb selection adjusted:

• Pelvic limbs: BL-40, BL-60, BL-64 (right); KID-1, KID-2, KID-3 (left)
• Thoracic limbs: SI-1, SI-2, SI-8 (left); LU-5, LU-7, LU-11 (right)

Additional points included Liu Feng in the pelvic limbs, Er Yan (cranial and caudal), and “Circle the Dragon” technique applied to the central pad of the right rear foot.

Electroacupuncture: GV-14 + Wei-jian; BL-23 + BL-35 bilaterally, placed in parallel.

Outcome

Dr. Clemons-Chevis was unable to continue follow-up care due to travel, and ongoing treatment was assumed by Dr. Nathalia Rivera. As of October 27, 2021, Jupiter was walking well and had begun running. Urinary control had improved significantly. Although anal reflex remained diminished, fecal control continued to improve.

• Exam: Limping on left side, slips a lot on the concrete floor, eyes red, conjunctivitis
• Western Diagnosis: Subluxation of left hip --> replaced into joint
• TCVM Diagnosis: Local Stagnation left hip; Phlegm
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear stagnation, and transform Phlegm and tonify Qi
• Tui-na Treatment: Roufa over hips, Ca Fa on Stomach Meridian

A week later, Josie is now starting to sit squarely instead of leaning to one side to protect her stiff hip. And there’s more good news—Josie was adopted this week! Her new family plans to continue her acupuncture treatments with Dr. Brannan, and we couldn’t be happier that she has found her forever home.

Josie relaxes while getting acupuncture during her follow up appointment on 8/17

Last visit with Josie in the shelter!

Meet Hot Rod, an energetic 1-year-old Lab mix. He was found injured in March 2021 and taken to the Humane Society, where he had been for the past five months. Sadly, it’s suspected that his injuries resulted either from being hit by a car or from abuse before he was abandoned. Hot Rod is very loving once he gets past his mild fear aggression. He is extremely loyal and doesn’t much care for being told "no." He is currently being fostered by a veterinary technician who started working at the Humane Society in May 2021, fell in love with him, and plans to complete the adoption process once the Humane Society’s veterinarian clears him for adoption. Dr. Brannan began treating Hot Rod on August 17th.

About Hot Rod

• 1 year old, MN, Labrador Mix
• Fire; some Wood
• Curious at first, then fearful and territorial, then a complete love bug; treat motivated
• History: Found injured and taken to HS, radiographs show possible injury to R tarsus, urinary incontinence, end of July showed some tail movement improvement
• Western Diagnosis: Paralysis; hind legs
• Eastern Diagnosis: Qi and Blood Stagnation of the spine
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation, move Blood, Tonify Kidney Qi
• Herbal Treatment: Double P II (1 cap po BID 1-2 days, then 2 capsule po BID)
• Tui-na Treatment: Nian-Fa for toes, Roufa on Back-shu points T3-L7, An-fa on KID-1

In late August, Hot Rod was evaluated by a specialist in Miami to undergo additional diagnostic testing. The results confirmed a fracture at T12. The specialist was optimistic that, with continued electroacupuncture and physical rehabilitation, Hot Rod may be able to walk again.

Over the past month of treatment, Hot Rod has begun to show mild but meaningful improvement. His foster mom has noticed that he is more responsive to touch along his flank. With some support, he is now able to bear weight on his left hind leg, and he is positioning his back legs more accurately while distributing weight more evenly through his hind feet. Even better, Hot Rod can now stand in place on his own and his tail is wagging more than ever.

• TCVM Diagnosis: Qi and Blood Stagnation at T12
• TCVM Treatment Principles: Clear stagnation; move Qi and Blood; tonify Qi and Kidney Qi

Hot Rod continues on herbal medicine, receives Tui-na at home, and will soon be fitted with rehabilitation braces to provide additional support and assist with proper hind leg placement as he continues his recovery

Meet Hot Rod

Acupuncture to stimulate Qi

Acupuncture to stimulate the stagnation in the spine

Hot Rod dozing during aqua-acupuncture

During Dr. Suzy Brannan's first IVM-GO visit to the Marion County Humane Society (MCHS), she treated two canine patients: Josie and Conrad. Josie was a bit timid at first but quickly became a bundle of energy, eager for attention and affection. Her bubbly personality shone through as she sought to make new friends—definitely a Fire girl! Conrad, on the other hand, was calm and sweet with an Earth constitution. While he's laid-back, he won’t back down if another dog gives him attitude—your typical pit! He loves playing outside, especially when he has other canine friends to run around with.

About Josephine (Aka Josie)

• 1 year old, FS, Mixed breed
• Fire Constitution (puppy energy)
• Timid at first but happy and excited once she knows you, people motivated 
• History: Surrendered to MCHS by owner following traumatic injury
• Western Diagnosis: Luxated femoral head (replaced at HS under sedation), lameness on left rear leg
• TCVM Diagnosis: Local Stagnation of Left Hip
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation
• Tui-na Treatment: Rou-fa on both hips

About Conrad

• 4 years old, MN, Pit Mix
• Earth Constitution; perhaps a bit of Wood (reactive aggression)
• Calm and attentive, quick reactions initially, treat motivated
• History: has lived at MCHS for 1 year
• Western Diagnosis: loose stool frequent; rear limb lameness
• TCVM Diagnosis: Liver Spleen Disharmony/Local Stagnation of Hips, knees and hocks
• Acupuncture Treatment: Clear Stagnation; Soothe Liver Qi, tonify Spleen

Josie enjoying her Tui-na session. Thank you to tech Colleen for her help!

Conrad's first-ever acupuncture treatment. Thank you to tech Jennifer for her help!