Integrative Veterinary Medicine
Conditions We Treat
Integrative medicine offers new options for pets with chronic, complex, or quality-of-life conditions — expanding the toolkit without abandoning the science.
When Conventional Medicine Isn't the Whole Answer
Many of the pets Dr. Falk sees are already receiving excellent conventional care. Their families aren't looking to replace that care — they're looking for more. More comfort, more mobility, more good days. Integrative medicine is how we find those.
Every patient begins with a thorough conventional workup. Integrative therapies are layered in where the evidence supports them — always individualized, always explained, always in partnership with your existing veterinary team.
Pain & Musculoskeletal
Chronic Pain & Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions in aging dogs and cats — and one of the most undertreated. Dr. Falk uses a multi-modal approach combining acupuncture, herbal anti-inflammatories, therapeutic nutrition, and targeted supplements to reduce pain and improve comfort without relying solely on long-term NSAID use.
Who this helps
Dogs and cats with stiffness, reluctance to move, difficulty rising, or reduced activity
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Disc disease can cause anything from mild back pain to significant neurological deficits. Integrative therapies — particularly acupuncture — have well-documented effects on nerve regeneration, pain modulation, and muscle function, and can be used alongside conventional medical or surgical management.
Who this helps
Dogs with neck or back pain, weakness, wobbling, or post-surgical recovery
Post-Surgical Recovery
Recovery from orthopedic surgery — TPLO, FHO, spinal procedures — can be significantly accelerated with integrative support. Acupuncture reduces post-operative pain and inflammation, while targeted nutrition and herbal support promote tissue healing.
Who this helps
Pets recovering from orthopedic or neurological surgery
Degenerative Myelopathy
While DM has no cure, integrative therapies can meaningfully slow progression and maintain quality of life. Acupuncture, targeted exercise, and nutritional support are used to preserve muscle mass, nerve function, and mobility for as long as possible.
Who this helps
Dogs with progressive hind-limb weakness, particularly German Shepherds, Corgis, and Boxers
Skin, Allergies & Immune Health
Environmental & Seasonal Allergies
Allergic skin disease is one of the most frustrating conditions in veterinary medicine — for pets and families alike. Dr. Falk investigates root causes, addresses immune dysregulation through dietary and herbal medicine, and works to reduce dependence on long-term immunosuppressive medications.
Who this helps
Dogs and cats with itching, recurrent skin infections, ear infections, or paw licking
Food Sensitivities & IBD
Chronic gastrointestinal disease — including inflammatory bowel disease, food-responsive enteropathy, and protein-losing conditions — responds well to a combination of therapeutic nutrition, herbal medicine, and targeted supplementation. Dr. Falk works closely with conventional gastroenterology when needed.
Who this helps
Pets with chronic vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or poor coat condition
Immune-Mediated Conditions
Conditions like immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and polyarthritis require careful conventional management — but integrative support can help modulate immune function, reduce medication side effects, and support long-term remission.
Who this helps
Pets on long-term immunosuppressive therapy or with recurrent immune flares
Cancer & Palliative Care
Cancer Support & Integrative Oncology
Dr. Falk works alongside conventional oncologists to support pets through chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical recovery. Integrative therapies can reduce nausea, improve appetite, manage pain, and support immune function — helping pets feel better during treatment.
Who this helps
Pets undergoing conventional cancer treatment who need quality-of-life support
Palliative & Hospice Care
When curative treatment is not the goal, comfort becomes everything. Dr. Falk specializes in individualized palliative care plans that prioritize dignity, pain control, and meaningful time with family — supporting both the pet and the people who love them.
Who this helps
Pets with terminal diagnoses or families choosing comfort-focused care
Senior Pet Wellness
Senior & Geriatric Wellness
Aging is not a disease — but it does require a different kind of attention. Dr. Falk's senior wellness approach addresses cognitive changes, mobility decline, organ function, weight management, and quality of life with proactive, individualized care plans.
Who this helps
Dogs and cats entering their senior years (7+ for large dogs, 10+ for cats)
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Canine and feline cognitive dysfunction — the veterinary equivalent of dementia — is more common than most pet owners realize. Nutritional medicine, herbal support, and environmental enrichment strategies can slow progression and maintain mental clarity.
Who this helps
Senior pets with disorientation, sleep changes, house-soiling, or reduced interaction
Chronic Kidney Disease
CKD is one of the most common conditions in older cats and dogs. Integrative support — including therapeutic nutrition, acupuncture for nausea and appetite, and herbal kidney support — can meaningfully improve quality of life alongside conventional management.
Who this helps
Cats and dogs with diagnosed kidney disease or early renal changes
Neurological & Mobility
Vestibular Disease
Sudden onset of head tilt, circling, and loss of balance can be terrifying for pet families. Acupuncture has documented effects on vestibular recovery, and integrative support can accelerate return to normal function.
Who this helps
Dogs and cats with acute or chronic vestibular signs
Peripheral Neuropathy
Nerve damage from diabetes, trauma, or unknown causes can cause weakness, altered gait, and loss of sensation. Acupuncture's effects on nerve regeneration and pain modulation make it a valuable tool in managing peripheral neuropathies.
Who this helps
Pets with weakness, altered sensation, or gait abnormalities
Don't See Your Pet's Condition?
This List Is Not Exhaustive
Integrative medicine has applications across a wide range of conditions. If your pet has a chronic, complex, or quality-of-life challenge that isn't listed here, reach out — Dr. Falk is happy to discuss whether an integrative approach might be appropriate.
Ready to Explore What's Possible for Your Pet?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Falk to discuss your pet's history, current challenges, and how integrative medicine might help.