Q: How do I make an appointment for Katie to see my pet?
A: Katie sees pets by referral only. You can contact Katie directly to arrange a consultation, but your regular veterinarian will need to fill out a referral form, which can be found here. After the referral form is completed, we will arrange an initial visit. If you would like information prior to referral, please contact us. Referral allows us to work with your regular veterinarian to formulate a plan for your pet, including acupuncture, that optimizes your pet’s health and wellbeing.
Q: Will acupuncture treatment hurt my pet?
A: Most people are surprised how will their pets tolerate acupuncture treatment. The needles are very fine and most pets allow needle insertion without any stress. However, occasionally a specific point will be more sensitive than others and there may be a slight temporary discomfort experienced. This is no different than in human acupuncture. If this occurs, the needle will be removed and a different point will be used to provide a similar effect. For pets that do not tolerate needling, Katie offers laser acupuncture, using the Qi Pulse laser, to stimulate the acupuncture points. Most caregivers note their pet is more relaxed than they have been in a long time following an acupuncture treatment.
Q: How often will Katie need to see my pet for care?
A: This all depends on your individual pet and response to treatment. Typically, when there is an ongoing disease process, Katie suggests recheck appointments and acupuncture every 1 to 2 weeks for 4 to 8 treatments and if all is going well then these will be extended out to every 1 to 2 months and finally to every 6 to 12 months. Any new problems or concerns can be addressed as they arise.
Q: What does the name Five Elements Veterinary Acupuncture mean?
A: The five elements are fire, earth, metal, water and wood. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Five Element theory serves as one of the major diagnostic and treatment protocols. Each of the elements corresponds to the seasons, foods, emotional states, diseases, senses, etc. Imbalances in the elements can cause disturbances in the body and, ultimately, medical symptoms and health conditions. While it seems quite abstract, Five Element theory can help guide treatment strategies and restore balance in the body.
To read more about the five element theory, click here.
FEES
For locations within 25 miles of Bicester, there is a flat fee of £300 for the initial consultation including the first four acupuncture treatments along with follow up communication via e-mail or phone. The initial consult usually lasts about 90 minutes. Any recheck examinations after this (including an acupuncture treatment) will be £70; these typically last about 45 to 60 minutes.
Laser appointments typically last between 20-40 minutes. Treatment for between 1-4 areas per session is charged at £40 per session, for 5 or more areas, treatments are £55 per session. Package discounts are available depending on the required treatment areas and frequency of treatment.
Travel beyond the 25 mile radius is charged at a flat rate of £1/mile. Payment is accepted via bank transfer or debit/credit card and is expected at the time of service.
Please email to let us know if you are unable to keep an appointment. There is a £25 fee for cancellation within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment.
Please note, many insurance companies will cover the cost of acupuncture and laser therapy services. Insurance forms can be completed and posted free of charge.
Five Elements Veterinary Acupunture 