Veterinary Acupuncture & Food Therapy in Austin
Join Dr. Laurie Johnson for an integrative session with your pet, with options from veterinary acupuncture to animal food consults and more holistic health services.
Whether your pet is thriving or suffers from chronic issues, Dr. Johnson will perform a comprehensive review of your pet, his medical history, and any existing conditions.
From here, Dr. Johnson will devise a plan that may include herbal care, food recommendations, and/or veterinary acupuncture. You'll receive a report card that outlines a plan with in-store and other recommendations based on your pet's specific health needs.
Happening at Tomlinson's Allandale
Tuesdays & Thursdays
by appointment only
*Cancellations within 24 hours of event are subject to refund. Please reach out to Acudog Herbal Cat here.
SOLD OUT!
All August 12 appointments are booked up, but not to worry: sign up for the waitlist below and we'll reach out if a spot opens up. And, look for more clinics very soon!
Book Your Appointment
*Customers may cancel a consult up to 24 hours in advance for 100% refund by emailing howdy@tomlinsons.com. Cancellations within 24 hours of event are not subject to a refund.
Veterinary Acupuncture FAQs
Your dog or cat will rest comfortably on a soft mat or on the couch during treatment. You may remain in the room during treatment if you and your pet prefer.
What is veterinary acupuncture?
Just as with human acupuncture, a veterinary acupuncturist places very fine needles into specific points to trigger a healing effect, such as pain relief.
Veterinary acupuncture works by stimulating the pet's nervous system, boosting blood flow, calming muscle spasms, and releasing hormones like endorphins and cortisol. These compounds are the body’s natural pain relievers and can soothe pain and anxiety in your pet without Western medicine.
How will my dog or cat react to acupuncture?
Veterinary acupuncture is often painless, and many pets even fall asleep. Veterinary acupuncture is among the lowest-risk treatments available for dogs and cats.
What if my dog or cat freaks out during acupuncture?
Dr. Johnson can alter treatment based on your dog or cat's temperament by using acupressure or treating solely with herbs.
What are the results of cat and dog acupuncture?
Continued pet acupuncture treatments can result in pain relief, reduced anxiety, and increased energy.
Some pet parents notice lethargy following the first one to two treatments. This is a good sign! It indicates that a physiological change is underway and is usually followed by an improvement in the pet’s condition.
A Note from Dr. Johnson
I encourage pet parents to maintain a strong relationship with their family veterinarian who is on board with an integrative approach for achieving optimal health for their pets. The family vet is your resource for any emergency treatment, diagnostic testing, and prescription medicines. This includes antibody titer testing where appropriate, and any other lab work, imaging, and wellness care including minimal vaccination protocols and dentistry. Having a working diagnosis of more serious conditions through your family veterinarian is helpful for me in devising a targeted treatment plan.
My goal is to provide in-depth health consultations in a low-stress environment that allow us to sharply focus on the serious concerns and health issues. My approach is focused on natural health solutions, nutrition and behavior consults, as well as, acupuncture treatments for chronic disease, pain, and mobility. I offer chronic disease and healthy pet consultations, rechecks (in person and telemed), acupuncture, and food consults. In certain circumstances, pets may need conventional medications and will need to have prescriptions filled by their family veterinarian.
Meet Dr. Laurie Johnson, DVM
Laurie Johnson is a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) with over 12 years of experience in the field. She has a diverse medical background in wildlife, emergency, shelter, small animal medicine, and surgery and is also a fear-free certified practitioner.
Dr. Johnson draws from a solid conventional veterinary medical practice with a focus on natural wellness care and preventative medicine. Common problems addressed are skin issues and allergies, chronic disease, pain management, palliative care, anxiety, and other behavioral concerns utilizing alternative medicine, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and food consults.
She is licensed and has extensive experience in all aspects of her practice. She has been practicing acupuncture (CVA) for over 10 years with advanced coursework through the Chi Institute of Veterinary Medicine. She is licensed in herbal therapy and integrative medicine (CVHM) through the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies and is licensed in Food Therapy (CVFT) via the Chi Institute where she is currently enrolled in the Master’s Program.
Testimonials
“Harley and I both look forward to her regular acupuncture appointments with Dr. Johnson.
Harley receives the wonderful healing benefits of acupuncture, B12 injections and traditional Chinese herbs to support her arthritis in her hind end as well as whole body blood flow!
This combination of comprehensive care and therapies has helped Harley so much in keeping her comfortable and moving in her “golden” years! I get to be a happy dog mom."
- Stevie B. and Miss Harley
"Since Stuart has seen Dr. Johnson for acupuncture his life has changed for the better!
He's been able to get off pharmaceutical drugs that required blood tests for liver factors. He is running around the yard to chase squirrels, and it is easier for him to go up and down stairs.
He gets very excited when he knows he's going to see her! His tail wags and he lays down for Dr. Johnson where he is sore. She is kind, loving, and looks out for the care of her clients."
-Nikki W. and Stuart
"It's fact, there is NO other vet like Dr. Johnson. She's the best. She cares truly about my dog.
She sends detailed emails, makes follow up calls, will always explain all your options, and takes a more holistic and honest approach on how to care for your pet.
I have never experienced someone so genuine to her craft. She makes me feel like I am putting my dog in the best hands. you just don't find em like Dr. J!"
-Pratiksha M. and AJ