FAQ's
Who is HeartFire Veterinary Holistic Health Care?
HeartFire was founded by Dr. Nicole Kayser. She is a graduate of Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and has received training and certification in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) including Veterinary Acupuncture (CVA), Chinese Herbal Medicine (CVCH) and Chinese Food Therapy (CCFT) through the Chi University in Gainesville, Florida. Dr. Kayser has been practicing veterinary medicine in Central New York since 1995. She did take a 3 year leave to help take care of her mother in Oregon but has recently returned to CNY and reopened HeartFire Vet.
Do you have to be a licensed veterinarian to practice acupuncture in NYS?
Yes, you do have to be a licensed veterinarian to perform acupuncture.
Why holistic health care?
Dr. Kayser feels that focusing on the patient as a whole vs. treating symptoms results in better overall health. A holistic approach may also be successful in treating conditions that are unresponsive to symptomatic treatments.
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body using very fine sterile needles or very targeted laser light. Stimulation of these points has been used for over 3000 years in Chinese medicine to restore balance and flow of the vital energy know as Qi (pronounced “chee”). Modern research shows that acupuncture points have a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells and small arterioles. Stimulation of these points induces the release of beta-endorphins, serotonin and other neurotransmitters.
How safe is acupuncture therapy?
Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner. Very few side effects have been found in clinical cases.
How long does each treatment last?
Each session may take 20 to 60 minutes.
How many treatments are needed?
It depends upon the nature, severity and duration of diseases. A single treatment may be enough for an acute condition. A series of 3 to 10 treatments can resolve many chronic problems. Some chronic degenerative conditions may need monthly maintenance treatments over time.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients are comfortable with acupuncture and some may even fall asleep during treatment as it induces relaxation. If the patient will not tolerate needles, we can use a laser.
What physiological effects are induced by acupuncture?
Numerous studies show that acupuncture stimulation induces these physiological effects:
- Pain relief
- Regulation of gastrointestinal motility
- Anti-inflammatory effect
- Immuno-regulation
- Hormone and reproductive regulation
Cautions and contraindications
When acupuncture is performed, the following conditions are cautioned or contraindicated:
- Fracture
- Pregnancy
- Open wound
- Infectious diseases
Why is acupuncture frequently combined with herbs?
Sometimes the application of Chinese Herbal Medicine is chosen by the knowledgeable veterinarian as a support for the acupuncture, or on occasion, in lieu of it. Herbs are frequently used in situations that have not responded to traditional western veterinary medical practices.
Which treatment will benefit my pet?
Each patient is unique and their treatment is tailored for their specific needs. Dr. Kayser uses both exams and patient history to formulate a treatment plan using acupuncture, Chinese herbs and food therapy to rebalance the body. This plan will treat the underlying causes of disease not just the symptoms.
Will I still need to take my pets to their primary veterinarian if they get acupuncture treatments?
Yes. While TCVM may reduce or eliminate the need for some treatments and prescriptions provided by your primary veterinarian, HeartFire does not offer vaccines, surgeries or diagnostic tests like radiographs and blood work. Dr. Kayser will work with your primary veterinarian to provide the best possible health care for your pet.
