FAQ
ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
What are the fees for your services?
The following tool provides pricing info for first time patients. Dr. Birdwell will discuss fees for follow-up exams and regularly scheduled appointments as needed. Start by entering your zip code and then select the services you are interested in to see your cost total. Please note that a house call fee is charged for every visit.
Why should I consider a housecall visit for my pet?
Home visits are wonderful for pets with mobility issues or that become anxious or stressed travelling to a brick and mortar clinic. This can also be helpful to families that have time constraints or their own mobility issues. We are there for you to make your life easier as well. This gives us time to talk and take care of your companion in a comfortable and relaxed setting.
What forms of payment are accepted?
All major credit cards, cash, checks and debit cards are accepted.
What if I love my regular veterinarian, but they do not offer acupuncture and herbal medicine?
Dr. Birdwell enjoys working with other veterinarians, so that we can help your pet together as a team. We will send records to your brick and mortar veterinarian so they know what is going on with your companion. This can be very important if diagnostic testing, such as blood work or imaging, is needed to further define what is happening with your pet.
How long does a typical acupuncture appointment last?
For the first consultation, the time should be between 1-1.5 hours, which will include the exam as well as acupuncture. Dr. Birdwell will also give you information about herbal supplements as well as food therapy to help your companion feel their best.
Will the acupuncture needles hurt my pet?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair thin needles, which create a tiny pinch when they go through the skin. Most animals enjoy their acupuncture, and our repeat clients often refer to it as their pet’s “spa treatment.”
What do herbs have to do with acupuncture?
Herbs are used to maintain the body between acupuncture treatments, and can lengthen the time between visits.
Is it okay to order herbal remedies on the internet?
It is best to consult someone trained in herbal medicine before giving any herbs to your pet. Dr. Birdwell has completed over 150 hours of continuing education for Chinese herbal medicine and written papers to become certified in veterinary Chinese herbal medicine. She has been using herbs in her practice since 2013.
What are the source of the herbs used by Pawsitively Healing?
We use herbs mainly from a company called Jing Tang Herbal, which is based in Florida. The herbs come from China, but are purity tested when they arrive. The president of this company as well as other veterinarians who work for them are adjunct professors at the University of Florida Veterinary School. They are focused on herbal medicine for our our animal companions, and Dr. Birdwell has been happy with the efficacy of herbs from this company. She has been using herbs from this company since 2013, and uses them in her own pets.
Will herbs interact with the medications my pet is already taking?
For the majority of medications, this is not an issue. Please let Dr. Birdwell know about any medications or supplements your pet is taking so that we can discuss at the time of your appointment.
Will chiropractic adjustments frighten or hurt my pet?
Dr. Amy employs a gentle touch and eases your pet into the process. After chiropractic adjustments, many pets will feel the effects of an endorphin release, and will have a similar relaxed feeling that one may experience after a healthy session of exercise. Some pets may experience soreness for 12-48 hours, but most feel better in 1-2 days.
How do I know when it is time to say goodbye?
We offer a doctor consultation to evaluate quality of life, as it is always hard to know exactly when is the right moment to let your companion go. We are here to support you during this difficult time for your family. Sometimes there are things we can do to make your companion feel better for a time. There are other times when we will decide together that it is your companion’s time. As long as you are making the decision out of love, it is the right time.
