Schedule Update Week of February 17, 2020

Four Paws Acupuncture will be closed this week. All acupuncture house-calls and appointments at Our Family Veterinary Services will be rescheduled at the end of this week hopefully.

If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

All calls, texts and emails will be returned at the end of this week. Please do not try to contact us via Facebook!

Thank you,
jeanie mossa MS L.Ac.
http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com

Dog Food Recall

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is cautioning pet owners not to feed their pets one lot of Aunt Jeni’s Home Made frozen raw pet food after a sample collected from a store in the District of Columbia tested positive for Salmonella.
• The product is Aunt Jeni’s Home Made All-Natural Raw Turkey Dinner Dog Food, 5 lb. (2.3 kg), lot 175331 NOV2020.
• If you have any of the affected Aunt Jeni’s Home Made product, stop feeding it to your pet, throw it away, and sanitize surfaces that may have come in contact with the product.
• FDA is issuing this alert because this lot of Aunt Jeni’s Home Made frozen raw pet food represents a serious threat to human and animal health. Because the product is sold and stored frozen, FDA is concerned that people may still have it in their possession.
• Salmonella can affect both human and animal health. People with symptoms of Salmonella infection should consult their health care providers. Consult a veterinarian if your pet has symptoms of Salmonella infection.

Valentine's Day Gifts for a Pawsome Cause

Juanita, office snoopervisor at Our Family Veterinary Services in Peabody MA posing near pea pod and bird nest necklaces created with semiprecious gemstones.

100% of ALL sales goes towards supporting our herd of rescue cats that roam the office. These necklaces are handcrafted and each are one of a kind art to wear. A lovely Valentine's Day gift for a pawsome cause.

Learn more about veterinary acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine for pets at Our Family Veterinary Services at http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com

Veterinary Acupuncture & Holistic Medicine for Pets On North Shore of MA

Our Family Veterinary Services in Peabody MA is now offering veterinary acupuncture & traditional Chinese medicine for dogs and cats.

Acupuncture

Laser Therapy

Herbs and Homeopathic Medicine

Acupressure

Tui Na

Reiki

Classes

Please note: I do not sell any herbal formulas, holistic supplements or homeopathic remedies. Information on where to purchase any recommendations at the best price will be given during your session. 

Juanita, office snoopervisor helps to hang our new sign at 

Our Family Veterinary Services!

Learn more at: http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com/services.html

To answer all your questions about our services we created a Youtube:

https://youtu.be/bsItdDg_yLQ

Jeanie Mossa MS L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, author and owner of Four Paws Acupuncture on the North Shore of MA.  She has been treating people & pets with holistic medicine for more than 25 years.

Natural Solutions for Dogs with Allergies

Blast from the past archives articles by jeanie mossa

Natural Solutions for Dogs with Allergies

jeanie marie mossa M.S., L.Ac.

copyright 2010 jeanie mossa

Just like people, dogs suffer from allergies too. This article is for all dog owners in search of natural remedies for their sneezing, itching, snorting dogs.

Allergies may be triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, dust, mold and pollutants in the air or home. Lawn and garden pesticides and chemicals, and cedar wood chips are often forgotten culprits in causing an allergic reaction. Other allergies may be caused by food sensitivities. The most common foods that cause allergic reactions in dogs are wheat, corn, soy, dairy and eggs. Fleas and dust mites can also cause symptoms. 

Allergy Symptoms in Dogs:

*Sneezing

*Coughing

*Wheezing

*Itching and/or biting and scratching frequently, especially hindquarters, tail and stomach area.

*Rashes or hives

*Red skin

*Flakey coat

*Rancid smell of coat

*Oily texture to coat

*Licking paw frequently

*Shaking head to relieve itchy ears

*Watery eyes

*Red eyes (unless he is a bloodhound!)

*Vomiting and or diarrhea

Here are a few tips for dogs with allergies:

*Feed him only foods that are free of wheat, corn or soy.

*Use glass or stainless-steel water and food bowl to prevent mold growth.

*Use environmentally friendly cleaning products in your home.

*Use environmentally safe and natural pesticides in your yard.

*Consider a round of acupuncture with Chinese herbal formulas

*Use an air filter in your home.

*Wash bedding on a regular basis with natural detergents.

Foods That Can Make Fido Itch!

You are what you eat applies to dogs as well as humans. Many dogs suffer from food allergies. The top five culprits are wheat, corn, soy, eggs and dairy. Some dogs may also be allergic to chicken. Symptoms can vary. Most dogs will show some sign of itching or skin irritation. Others may vomit or have diarrhea. Store bought foods may also contain MSG, animal by-products, dyes and other harmful ingredients.

When choosing a food for your dog read the ingredients. Make sure it is free from all wheat, corn, soy and animal by-products. If you cannot pronounce the ingredients, research it before making a purchase. Since the food recall scare high quality pet foods are easier to find. This article is not intended to promote or advertise any specific brands, however there are several natural and safe dog foods to choose from such as (but not limited to): Solid Gold, California Naturals, Halo, Wellness, Blue, Innova, Artemis and Evo. If your dog is allergic to egg or chicken, make sure the brand you pick does not contain it.

Wheat and wheat gluten cause many other problems in dogs besides allergies. It can exacerbate arthritic pain and cause intestinal disorders. It also adds unwanted weight gain. Flour is also a form of wheat, and whole wheat contains wheat gluten. I recommend to all my dog patients' owners to keep their dogs off all wheat products. Unfortunately, many dog treats contain wheat. The dog food brands mentioned above also make wheat free treats.

Quercetin: The Pawsitive Bioflavonoid

Quercetin is a wonderful supplement for dogs, cats or humans suffering from allergies or asthma. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid (or flavonoid), which is a type pigment found in almost all herbs, fruits, and vegetables. It is also an antioxidant. a natural antihistamine, and anti-inflammatory supplement

Research has shown that Quercetin's antihistamine action may help to relieve allergy symptoms and asthma symptoms. Quercetin helps treat allergies by blocking the secretion of histamine in the body. Histamine is what causes inflammation and swelling. The symptoms of a histamine reaction can be stuffy nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, itchy or red skin, runny eyes and more. The anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce pain from disorders such as arthritis.

Quercetin supplements are also available in concentrated powders and tablet or capsule form. It is often packaged with bromelain (an enzyme found in pineapple), another substance that has been found useful for treatment of allergies and inflammation, which is thought to increase the absorption of Quercetin.

Choose a brand that contains bromelain in capsules, which makes it easy to break one apart and sprinkle on your dog's food.

We just found these treats online and our dog loves them!

Fitapet Allergy Relief for Itchy Dogs - with Turmeric, Omega-3, Quercetin and Bromelain

Do the Math: Supplement Dosages for Dogs

When you purchase nutritional supplements for your dog, you may only be able to find human versions of the products. That’s okay but be careful about using recommended dosages. Dosage information for most supplements is based on the needs of an average person of about 125 pounds in weight. To calculate your dog’s needs, consult with your pet health practitioner, or do the math yourself:

Divide your dog’s weight by 125. For example: 40/125 = .32

Multiply the recommended dosage by this number: For example: 3

tablets, twice per day. 3 X .32 = .96.

So, rounding the final number a bit, the dosage of this supplement for

a 40-pound dog would be 1 tablet, twice per day.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Allergies

Acupuncture is only one element of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Other TCM modalities incorporated into most treatments are laser acupuncture, infrared heat, moxabustion, and a form of Chinese massage known as Tui Na.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine the immune system is regulated by Wei Qi (Pronounced "way chee" defensive Chi). Qi is the life force in the body and Wei Qi is the first line of defense from an "attack" on our immune system. Acupuncture helps to boost Wei Qi, thus boosting the immune system. It helps relieve the symptoms of allergies and helps to calms the patient.

Acupuncture can help boost the immune system to fend off allergies. In my acupuncture practice, I have found that it takes a combination of herbs and/or supplements, a change in diet and a round of acupuncture sessions for best results. It also takes patience! Herbs and supplements may take two weeks to take full effect in the body. Since acupuncture treatments have a cumulative effect, 5-6 consecutive treatments are recommended.

This article is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult with a licensed acupuncturist or veterinarian if your dog suffers from chronic or acute health problems.

JeanieMarie Mossa, M.S., L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist and author in Salem, Massachusetts with a private practice treating dogs with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Owner of Four Paws Acupuncture on the North Shore of MA. 

She is a former faculty member of the Canadian College of Oriental Medicine, has published two books on Chinese herbal medicine, and several articles on Oriental Medicine. She has been treating dogs with acupuncture since 1995. Learn more at www.FourPawsAcupuncture.com

Happy Birthday Merlin Bird Mossa!

Nina Ballerina & Merlin Bird Mossa

I like to call February 1st the Feast of the Boy in honor of my doggie soulmate Merlin who was the inspiration for Four Paws Acupuncture.

While attending the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine for my degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, my 13 year old German Shepherd Merlin was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, arthritis and was having trouble walking. The vet wanted to put him down. ... not an option. 

So thanks to a few professors at school i learned how to do acupuncture on Merlin. I also changed his diet, started giving him herbs and using liniments. Merlin lived to be almost 15 and during his last year was walking much better and loved going to Dog Beach in San Diego every Sunday. 

Thanks to Merlin's positive response to traditional Chinese medicine, i decided to pursue veterinary acupuncture & herbal medicine. After graduating PCOM in 1999 and taking California Acupuncture Boards & the NCCAOM boards - Four Paws Acupuncture was born! This of course is the condensed version of this tale!

Every February 1st i light a candle in honor of this dear boy. 

Using Semiprecious stones & Crystals for Pets

Using Semiprecious stones & Crystals for Pets

jeanie mossa MS. L.Ac.

copyright jeanie mossa 2018

Crystals and gemstones have been used since ancient times for healing, medicinal purposes and spiritual practices as well as adornment. Gemstones and crystals are said to help heal emotions, calm the mind and reduce stress for people and animals.

I personally have a few crystals on my nightstand to help me sleep. I have started to incorporated them in my veterinary acupuncture practice. When treating dog or cat patients, I place crystals in the treatment room and close to them. I have found that It helps keep the atmosphere calm – and they add a lovely decorative touch.

You can find crystals and gemstones in their natural state, looking like geodes or crystals or tumbled into smooth stones. Either form will work. You may also find them on jewelry for people and pets.

https://practicalmagicsalem.com/healing-pet-amulets

You can place crystals or gemstones on a collar, cage, under the pet’s bed or in its crate. Make sure the stones are not in a place your pet will eat or swallow them. Please note crystals and gemstones are not a replacement for veterinary care.

There are hundreds of different types of crystals and stones. These are a few that I use in my practice:

Rose Quartz –  A lovely pink stone. Known as the Love stone. Aids in unconditional love and bonding. Helps your pet to accept love and companionship. Reduces stress. Helps pets adjust to new situations and homes. A must for Rescues and abused animals.

Hematite –  A silver grey stone. A grounding protective stone which absorbs negative energy, stress and worry. Its magnetic effect helps new pets and owners bond. Aids in blood disorders and the muscular system.

Tiger’s Eye – A gorgeous brown and golden stone. A grounding stone used for protection, especially when traveling. Good for endurance and agility. It is said to have an overall pain-relieving effect.

Amethyst – A purple stone. One of the best healing and calming stone used to reduce stress, anxiety, rattled nerves and disorientation. Great for Rescues and couch potato pets. Improves low energy. Clears negative energy. Aids in reducing pain.

Turquoise –  Named after its color, turquoise blue or green. Known as the Master Healer of Stones. Revered by the Native Americans. Used for protection from being stolen, straying or accidents and animal haters. Also for pets with arthritis. Said to have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effect.

Black Lava  – Looks like black lava! Used for protection. A very grounding stone giving the pet a sense of stability during change.

You may find black lava as a bead to use with essential oils.Place a drop of an essential oil on the bead. Wait a few minutes for the oil to absorb into the bead before putting it on, to avoid the oil making contact with your dog’s skin.  Lavender oil is used for a calming effect. Do not give this to your pet internally!

https://practicalmagicsalem.com/calm-spirit-aromatherapet-amulet

Lapis Lazuli – A dark blue stone sometimes with white stripes or specks. For pets who seem depressed and or aggressive. Said to control anger. Aids in communication. Also used for protection.

Aids in respiratory issues, neck problems, vocal chords and thyroid gland.

Brown Snowflake Jasper – A brown stone with flecks of white. Nurturing and grounding stone. Supports inner strength and tranquility during times of stress, illness or danger.  Helps alleviate fears. Used for chronically ill pets

Blue Chalcedony – A calming shade of blue or green. Calming and negates negative energy. Brings out the inner child and playfulness. Aids in communication between pets and their guardians. Great for sad or depressed animals.

Labradorite – A magical blue grey stone with flecks of various colors. Healing stone that helps promote self-worth, strength and communication. Helps one develop a sense of humor. Great stone for guard or guide dogs who work all day and need to play more.

 Our line of Healing Pet Amulets can be found at:

Sacred Circle in Old Town, Alexandria VA  on King Street

New England Dog Biscuit in the Essex Street Mall, Salem MA and online: https://practicalmagicsalem.com/healing-pet-amulets

Copyright @ 2017 jeanie mossa  four paws acupuncture Salem MA

http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com

Can Acupuncture Treat Serious Dog Agility Injuries?

Can Acupuncture Treat Serious Dog Agility Injuries?

 YES!

Serious injuries such as fractures, dislocations, torn tendons, and serious internal injuries should be first treated by a veterinarian.

Recovery from many of these injuries, however, can be augmented by acupuncture, herbs and nutrition.

Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine can also help reduce the pain and symptoms of post-operative surgery, arthritis, neurological issues, hip and elbow dysplasia, knee and shoulder injuries and pain. Most dog patients have improved performance in their agility after a series of acupuncture sessions.

Prevention of Sports & Agility Injuries

Chinese medicine has many tools to help prevent injuries and the recurrence of injuries. Through acupuncture, nutrition, herbal support, and proper preparation and training, injuries can be minimized or avoided. Oriental medicine is also helpful in treating old injuries that sideline your dog’s play in later years. Regular treatment helps your dog’s body stay in balance. A body in balance is less susceptible to injury and illness.

Oriental medicine approaches health in a holistic manner. In the Chinese medical framework, the body is seen as an energetic collection of functions, in contrast to the Western view of the body as a mechanical collection of parts.

To learn more about veterinary acupuncture and traditional Chinese Medicine on the North Shore of MA please visit the Four Paws Acupuncture site. http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com

Happy Chinese New Year of the Rat

Wishing all a very Happy Chinese New Year of the Rat!

Gung Hay Fat Choy

from all of us at Four Paws Acupuncture 

Veterinary Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine

House-calls in Salem MA, Beverly MA & Marblehead MA

Office appointments available at Our Family Veterinary Services in Peabody MA

www.fourpawsacupuncture.com

Keeping tails wagging on the North Shore of MA!

Veterinary Acupuncture House Call Guidelines

House Call Guidelines

During my many years of making house calls I have found that a few guidelines were needed to make your pet’s session relaxing and for it to receive the most benefits from the treatment. Working with animals takes a bit more focus and energy. As I incorporate many modalities of holistic therapies into this session, I also need to stay calm and focused.

Thank you for helping me make each session for your pet the best that it can possibly be. Please note everyone receives this email before their first session.

Pick a room or area that your dog/cat is most comfortable. If they have a favorite blanket or toy keep it handy. Please take your dog out to pee before I arrive if necessary.

The owner must be in the room with me and the dog/cat during the entire session. You are part of your dog/cat’s family. This keeps the dog/cat relaxed. I also ask the owner to participate to help keep the dog/cat still during the session. Keeping the owner involved makes the animal happy and usually better behaved. During the session, I will also be showing you how to massage, do basic acupressure and apply liniments.

Please note this is also for liability reasons.

Please turn off all TV, radio, video games or music unless it is classical soothing music.

Please no cell phone, texting during the session unless it is an emergency.

Please! No cooking, doing homework, or any other activities that will require you to get up and down and leave the room.

Children may watch but must be quiet and respect the dog/cat and me.

No Smoking in the room.

To learn more about veterinary acupuncture & traditional Chinese Medicine for dogs and cats on the North Shore of MA please visit the Four Paws Acupuncture website. http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com

Jeanie Mossa MS L.Ac. is now accepting new dog patients at Our Family Veterinary Services in Peabody MA.  Please contact us directly to schedule a session. http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com/contact.html

Post Surgery Acupuncture for Pets

Post-Op Surgery

Acupuncture can help your pet's recovery!

There are many benefits of using acupuncture after surgery, all which aid in helping your pet heal faster, reduce pain and it may even help cut its recovery time in half.

Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture treatments before and after surgery significantly reduced pain and the use of painkillers.

Acupuncture has been proven to:

·        Reduce pain and inflammation

·        Promote circulation

·        Release endorphins

·        Boost the immune system

·        Minimize drug side-effects

·        Decrease stress

·        Reduce scarring

For post-surgical patients at Our Family Veterinary Services all sessions include a combination of acupuncture, laser therapy and acupressure for maximum benefits. http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com/services.html

In conjunction with acupuncture, there are also a few excellent Chinese herbal formulas, liniments and homeopathic remedies that reduce pain and inflammation while speeding up the healing process.

To learn more how acupuncture and traditional Chinese Medicine can help your pet before or after surgery or to schedule a session with licensed acupuncturist Jeanie Mossa MS. L.Ac. at Our Family Veterinary Services in Peabody please visit the Four Paws Acupuncture website.

www.fourpawsacupuncture.com