Question 1

What is TCVM?

Accepted Answer

TCVM stands for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.  TCVM has four different branches: acupuncture, herbal medication, food therapy and Tui-na (medical manipulation massage and accupressure).  A thorough exam will help Dr. Smith to determine which branches of treatment will benefit your patient.

Question 2

What is a typical appointment like?

Accepted Answer

Initial consultations are required for all new patients.  This appointment allows for time to discuss your goals and helps us to decide what services/treatment will be most beneficial.  We take the time to review history, pertinent lab work and imaging as well as discuss diet and any current medications.  The initial consultation will also include an acupuncture treatment if we feel it is an appropriate treatment for the case.
 
All appointments include a physical exam as well as a TCVM exam (incorporating tongue and pulse diagnosis).  Dr. Smith will ask quite a few questions about your pet that may differ from those asked by your primary care veterinarian.  The questions as well as tongue and pulse diagnosis may be new to you, but we ask that you remain open minded as these are important steps to achieve a TCVM diagnosis.  After the initial questions/exam is when we will begin acupuncture.  You can expect that your pet may be a bit more tired 24-48 hours following a treatment.

Question 3

How long are appointments?

Accepted Answer

The initial consultation is approximately 90 minutes, but subsequent treatments are typically shorter- approximately 40-60 minutes.

Question 4

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

Accepted Answer

If you require a different appointment time than those listed, please contact us and we will do our best to work with your schedule.

Question 5

Do you want medical records from my primary care veterinarian?  How do I send these records?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the more we know about your patient's condition the better we will be able to integrate the treatment plans.  Records, lab work and imaging (radiographs, ultrasound, etc.) can be emailed to: smith@virginiasinclair.com.

Question 6

Do you perform other services such as vaccinations, blood work or x-rays?"

Accepted Answer

The short answer is no.  As a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Smith is trained and capable of performing these services, but it is not something that Virginia Sinclair Veterinary Services offers.  The services we offer are tailored to work closely with the wellness care, surgical and diagnostic services performed by your general practitioner.  After each visit, a report will be sent to your primary care veterinarian.  At times, Dr. Smith may recommend that you return to your general practitioner for further diagnostics.

Question 7

Where is Dr. Smith's office?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Smith's practice is mobile meaning she comes to you!  Everything that she will need to treat your pet can be transported to your home or barn.

Frequently Asked Questions