Holistic Care for Pets – Medical Manipulation
From easing everyday aches to promoting overall wellness, holistic therapies like chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture have transformed the way people approach health and healing. Now, pets can experience a similar level of care at Hawthorne Animal Hospital in Glen Carbon, where skilled specialists offer advanced integrative treatments to help four-legged patients feel their best
Veterinary Medical Manipulation
Hands-On Therapy for Pets
Whether caused by a slip, injury, or overuse, changes in your pet’s joints can affect the muscles, cartilage, and nerves that support their movement. If you notice stiffness, difficulty getting around, or a new limp in your dog or cat, it may be a sign that your pet is experiencing discomfort and needs a closer look.
Dr. Amber Spaur of Hawthorne Animal Hospital is certified in Veterinary Medical Manipulation (VMM), a specialized form of therapy designed to support your pet’s mobility and comfort. VMM is like human chiropractic for pets, using gentle, hands-on manipulative techniques that work within the normal range of motion of the joints. Pets accept the treatment very well, and many get immediate relief from pain after their first session.
What Conditions Does VMM Treat?
VMM care addresses a variety of health concerns in pets, such as:
- Lameness
- Back and neck pain
- Stiffness and reduced mobility
- Musculoskeletal problems, such as hip dysplasia and arthritis
- Nerve pain
- Pain associated with age
- Reproductive problems
- Gastrointestinal issues
By supporting healthy movement and restoring balance throughout the body, VMM can help pets feel more comfortable and stay active.
The Cost of VMM Care for Your Pet
Initial VMM Consultation (60 minutes): $200
- Includes adjustment, goals, and therapies.
VMM Follow-Up Adjustments (30 minutes): $125
Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats
Dr. Jessica Wiehrdt is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture. During your pet’s treatment, Dr. Wiehrdt will insert tiny needles into acupuncture points where the nerves and blood vessels intersect. These needles stimulate the nervous system, helping the body release natural pain relievers and anti-inflammatory compounds. Many pets start to feel relief from discomfort within one day of their session.
To ensure your pet’s safety, our care team will gently position and restrain them as needed. Because the acupuncture needles are so thin, insertion is virtually painless, and most pets remain calm—even relaxed—during treatment.
What Conditions Does Acupuncture Treat?
Acupuncture may be recommended for a variety of issues affecting your pet, including:
- Arthritis and joint inflammation
- Chronic muscle or nerve pain
- Skin lesions
- Nausea or decreased appetite
- Stress and anxiety
- Gastrointestinal problems
Every pet deserves to feel their best, and acupuncture offers another way to help them find comfort, relief, and renewed vitality.
The Cost of Acupuncture for Your Pet
Initial VMM Consultation (60 minutes): $200
- Includes adjustment, goals, and therapies.
VMM Follow-Up Adjustments (30 minutes): $125
Pet Holistic Therapy in the St. Louis Metro Area
As leaders at the forefront of both advanced and holistic medicine, Hawthorne Animal Hospital is continually adding new services that deliver whole-pet care for your dog or cat. Whether you choose acupuncture or Veterinary Medical Manipulation as stand-alone treatments or as part of a complete pain management care plan, Hawthorne is here to ensure the best outcomes for your best friend.
For your consultation, please call 618.288.3971.
Hawthorne Animal Hospital, a small animal hospital and veterinary clinic, serves St. Louis Metro East area, including the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Troy, Alton, Granite City, Collinsville, Highland, Wood River, Roxana, Bethalto, Godfrey, Worden, and Hamel.