What does a typical visit look like with Dr. Brenna?
An initial integrative medicine appointment typically starts before the appointment time. Dr. Brenna will go over your pets’ medical records. This gives an idea of what has already been done with your pet, what medications they have been on and what results of any tests have shown.
When the appointment starts, Dr. Brenna will discuss with you your concerns, your pets’ personality, history, environment, nutrition, and more. During this time, your pet will be able to get comfortable having a stranger in their home. Typically treats will be offered to your pet throughout the appointment if permitted. You will also be able to show Dr. Brenna the environment in which your pet spends their time at home, foods/treats they enjoy, etc. This is all valuable to coming up with a plan for your pet.
If your pet is relaxed, we will then move on to the physical examination & TCVM evaluation of the visit. For pets who have behaviour concerns, we may discuss behaviour modification aids, exercises and enrichment for your pet.
Dr. Brenna will then discuss considerations for next steps in treating your pet – an integrative approach may include medications, supplements/herbal therapies, acupuncture, dietary changes/nutrition planning, behaviour exercises, enrichment, environmental modifications, laboratory testing or referral for further work-up.
Following the appointment we will provide you a summary of what was discussed at the visit so you can reference it later on. Follow-up appointments are typically shorter in duration. Both of our initial and follow-up appointments include services performed during the visit including acupuncture (if your pet is willing), nutritional counseling, written scripts sent to your pharmacy or vet clinic (if indicated), sample collections (such as aspirates, swabs, urine, etc.) & unlimited questions during the visit time. Any testing (such as blood work, cytology & blood pressure), products & medications will be charged in addition to the consult. Further consultation outside of the appointment should be booked as either a follow-up consult or a telemedicine appointment.
What We DON’T Offer
- Vaccines, routine nail trims and anal gland care
- Sedated procedures (with exception of home euthanasia)
- General anesthesia & surgery (spay, neuter, dentistry, lump removals)
- X-rays & full abdominal ultrasound
- Dentistry of any kind (the ABVMA prohibits anesthesia-free dentistry)
- Specialist Services (however we can provide referrals to specialty centres when indicated)
- Emergency Care – please contact your nearest emergency hospital. A list can be found here.