Twin Willows Integrative Veterinary Practice
FAQs
What kinds of animals do you treat?
We primarily see dogs, cats, and horses. We are also open to treating additional species, please reach out for consultation!
How is integrative medicine different from holistic medicine?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, integrative veterinary medicine emphasizes combining conventional veterinary care with complementary therapies. Diagnostics, medications, surgery, and specialty care remain important tools when appropriate, while therapies such as acupuncture, rehabilitation, nutrition, and herbal medicine can be incorporated to support your animal's overall care.
The goal is to use the right tools for each individual patient rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Do I still need my regular veterinarian, and do you work with my primary veterinarian or specialist?
Yes. Twin Willows Integrative works alongside your primary veterinarian and veterinary specialists rather than replacing their role. Your regular veterinarian remains an important part of your animal's healthcare team for routine wellness care, vaccinations, diagnostics, emergencies, and other medical or surgical needs.
With your permission, we can communicate with your veterinary team and incorporate relevant medical records, laboratory results, and imaging into your animal's treatment plan.
What is veterinary acupuncture?
Veterinary acupuncture involves placing very thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body to stimulate responses within the nervous system and other body systems. It may help manage pain, support normal function, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.
Acupuncture can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for both small animals and horses.
How many acupuncture treatments will my animal need?
Every animal responds differently. The number and frequency of treatments depend on the condition being treated, whether the problem is acute or chronic, and how your animal responds to therapy.
Some patients benefit from a short series of treatments, while animals with chronic conditions may benefit from periodic maintenance care. Treatment plans are reassessed as your animal progresses.
Can rehabilitation help my senior pet?
Yes. Rehabilitation can be particularly beneficial for senior pets experiencing arthritis, muscle loss, weakness, balance problems, or decreased mobility.
An individualized rehabilitation program may help maintain strength and mobility, improve comfort and function, and support quality of life.
Will my pet need sedation for acupuncture, and what if they're nervous or don't tolerate treatment?
Most pets do not require sedation for acupuncture, and many become very relaxed during treatment.
Your animal's comfort is a priority. If your pet is nervous or does not tolerate a particular therapy, treatment can be adjusted to their individual needs. If acupuncture isn't a good fit, alternative treatment options can be discussed.
Are Chinese herbs safe, and can they be used with prescription medications?
Chinese herbs can be a valuable component of integrative care, but "natural" does not automatically mean safe. Some herbs can have significant effects on the body or interact with medications.
Before recommending herbal therapy, your animal's medical history, current medications, supplements, and individual needs are considered. Herbal prescriptions are individualized and monitored as part of your animal's overall treatment plan.
How does nutrition fit into integrative veterinary care, and do you recommend supplements?
Nutrition is an important part of overall health and can play a valuable role in managing certain medical conditions.
Depending on your animal's individual needs, recommendations may include therapeutic diets, nutritional modifications, food therapy, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, or other supplements. Supplements are not routinely recommended for every patient; recommendations are individualized based on potential benefit, safety, product quality, and your animal's specific needs.
Do I need a referral, and should I send my animal's medical records before my appointment?
A referral is not required for most appointments. However, medical records from your primary veterinarian are very helpful.
Please provide previous medical records, laboratory results, imaging, specialist reports, and a current list of medications and supplements when available. Having this information allows for a more complete assessment.
What needs to be completed prior to my first appointment?
Prior to your first appointment, please complete the following at least 48 hours before your scheduled appointment:
- Complete the required release form
- Complete the new client intake questionnaire
- Have your pet's medical records, including relevant laboratory results, imaging, and specialist reports, sent to info@twinwillowsintegrative.com
Completing these items in advance allows us to review your animal's history before the appointment.
Can you obtain my pet's records from my veterinarian?
We prefer that you contact your pet's primary veterinarian and any specialists involved in their care and request that your pet's medical records be sent directly to info@twinwillowsintegrative.com prior to your appointment.
Having your pet's records, including relevant laboratory results, imaging, and specialist reports, allows us to review their medical history before your visit and provide the most informed and comprehensive care possible.
Is Twin Willows Integrative a mobile practice, and what areas do you serve?
Yes. Twin Willows Integrative is a mobile veterinary practice providing care in your home, barn, or another appropriate location.
We currently serve San Luis Obispo County and Marin County. Because this is a mobile practice, availability varies by location, and travel to certain areas may only be available on specific days.
Please contact the practice to determine availability for your location.
What are your office hours?
Twin Willows Integrative hours are:
- Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Appointments are scheduled in advance, and availability may vary based on location and travel schedule.
*Please allow 48 hours for a response. We are a single doctor practice and do our best to get back to you in a timely manner.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. Twin Willows Integrative welcomes new patients in San Luis Obispo County and Marin County, subject to availability and location.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Please contact Twin Willows Integrative to request an appointment or fill out an appointment request online. When contacting the practice, please provide your animal's species, primary concern, location, and any relevant medical history.
Do you offer emergency services?
No. Twin Willows Integrative does not provide emergency or overnight veterinary care.
If your animal is experiencing an emergency, please contact your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Do you provide routine wellness care and vaccinations?
Twin Willows Integrative focuses on integrative veterinary medicine rather than routine primary-care services such as vaccinations and routine wellness appointments.
We recommend maintaining an established relationship with a primary care veterinarian for preventive care, vaccinations, routine diagnostics, and urgent medical needs.
Do you provide surgery?
Twin Willows Integrative does not provide routine surgical services. When surgery or specialized care is indicated, we can work with your primary veterinarian or appropriate specialist to help coordinate your animal's care.
How much do appointments cost, and do you charge a travel fee?
Please contact Twin Willows Integrative for the current fee schedule. Because this is a mobile practice, fees may vary depending on the type of appointment and location.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Payment is due in full at the time of your appointment.
Preferred payment methods are:
- Cash
- Check
- Zelle
Credit cards are also accepted for your convenience.
Payment plans are not available at this time.
Do you accept pet insurance?
Twin Willows Integrative does not bill pet insurance companies directly. Payment is due in full at the time of service.
We commonly provide an itemized invoice and appropriate medical documentation for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, depending on the terms of your individual policy.
What is your cancellation policy?
Twin Willows Integrative has a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. Appointments must be cancelled or rescheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to a cancellation fee.
How will we communicate after my appointment?
Following your appointment, you will receive individualized recommendations and instructions for your animal's care, if indicated.
For follow-up questions, updates, or non-urgent concerns, text or email is preferred. This allows us to keep communication organized and respond as efficiently as possible.
If your animal is experiencing an emergency or a rapidly worsening condition, please contact your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital rather than waiting for a response from Twin Willows Integrative.
What kinds of animals do you treat?
We primarily see dogs, cats, and horses. We are also open to treating additional species, please reach out for consultation!
How is integrative medicine different from holistic medicine?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, integrative veterinary medicine emphasizes combining conventional veterinary care with complementary therapies. Diagnostics, medications, surgery, and specialty care remain important tools when appropriate, while therapies such as acupuncture, rehabilitation, nutrition, and herbal medicine can be incorporated to support your animal's overall care.
The goal is to use the right tools for each individual patient rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Do I still need my regular veterinarian, and do you work with my primary veterinarian or specialist?
Yes. Twin Willows Integrative works alongside your primary veterinarian and veterinary specialists rather than replacing their role. Your regular veterinarian remains an important part of your animal's healthcare team for routine wellness care, vaccinations, diagnostics, emergencies, and other medical or surgical needs.
With your permission, we can communicate with your veterinary team and incorporate relevant medical records, laboratory results, and imaging into your animal's treatment plan.
What is veterinary acupuncture?
Veterinary acupuncture involves placing very thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body to stimulate responses within the nervous system and other body systems. It may help manage pain, support normal function, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.
Acupuncture can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for both small animals and horses.
How many acupuncture treatments will my animal need?
Every animal responds differently. The number and frequency of treatments depend on the condition being treated, whether the problem is acute or chronic, and how your animal responds to therapy.
Some patients benefit from a short series of treatments, while animals with chronic conditions may benefit from periodic maintenance care. Treatment plans are reassessed as your animal progresses.
Can rehabilitation help my senior pet?
Yes. Rehabilitation can be particularly beneficial for senior pets experiencing arthritis, muscle loss, weakness, balance problems, or decreased mobility.
An individualized rehabilitation program may help maintain strength and mobility, improve comfort and function, and support quality of life.
Will my pet need sedation for acupuncture, and what if they're nervous or don't tolerate treatment?
Most pets do not require sedation for acupuncture, and many become very relaxed during treatment.
Your animal's comfort is a priority. If your pet is nervous or does not tolerate a particular therapy, treatment can be adjusted to their individual needs. If acupuncture isn't a good fit, alternative treatment options can be discussed.
Are Chinese herbs safe, and can they be used with prescription medications?
Chinese herbs can be a valuable component of integrative care, but "natural" does not automatically mean safe. Some herbs can have significant effects on the body or interact with medications.
Before recommending herbal therapy, your animal's medical history, current medications, supplements, and individual needs are considered. Herbal prescriptions are individualized and monitored as part of your animal's overall treatment plan.
How does nutrition fit into integrative veterinary care, and do you recommend supplements?
Nutrition is an important part of overall health and can play a valuable role in managing certain medical conditions.
Depending on your animal's individual needs, recommendations may include therapeutic diets, nutritional modifications, food therapy, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, or other supplements. Supplements are not routinely recommended for every patient; recommendations are individualized based on potential benefit, safety, product quality, and your animal's specific needs.
Do I need a referral, and should I send my animal's medical records before my appointment?
A referral is not required for most appointments. However, medical records from your primary veterinarian are very helpful.
Please provide previous medical records, laboratory results, imaging, specialist reports, and a current list of medications and supplements when available. Having this information allows for a more complete assessment.
What needs to be completed prior to my first appointment?
Prior to your first appointment, please complete the following at least 48 hours before your scheduled appointment:
- Complete the required release form
- Complete the new client intake questionnaire
- Have your pet's medical records, including relevant laboratory results, imaging, and specialist reports, sent to info@twinwillowsintegrative.com
Completing these items in advance allows us to review your animal's history before the appointment.
Can you obtain my pet's records from my veterinarian?
We prefer that you contact your pet's primary veterinarian and any specialists involved in their care and request that your pet's medical records be sent directly to info@twinwillowsintegrative.com prior to your appointment.
Having your pet's records, including relevant laboratory results, imaging, and specialist reports, allows us to review their medical history before your visit and provide the most informed and comprehensive care possible.
Is Twin Willows Integrative a mobile practice, and what areas do you serve?
Yes. Twin Willows Integrative is a mobile veterinary practice providing care in your home, barn, or another appropriate location.
We currently serve San Luis Obispo County and Marin County. Because this is a mobile practice, availability varies by location, and travel to certain areas may only be available on specific days.
Please contact the practice to determine availability for your location.
What are your office hours?
Twin Willows Integrative hours are:
- Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Appointments are scheduled in advance, and availability may vary based on location and travel schedule.
*Please allow 48 hours for a response. We are a single doctor practice and do our best to get back to you in a timely manner.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. Twin Willows Integrative welcomes new patients in San Luis Obispo County and Marin County, subject to availability and location.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Please contact Twin Willows Integrative to request an appointment or fill out an appointment request online. When contacting the practice, please provide your animal's species, primary concern, location, and any relevant medical history.
Do you offer emergency services?
No. Twin Willows Integrative does not provide emergency or overnight veterinary care.
If your animal is experiencing an emergency, please contact your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Do you provide routine wellness care and vaccinations?
Twin Willows Integrative focuses on integrative veterinary medicine rather than routine primary-care services such as vaccinations and routine wellness appointments.
We recommend maintaining an established relationship with a primary care veterinarian for preventive care, vaccinations, routine diagnostics, and urgent medical needs.
Do you provide surgery?
Twin Willows Integrative does not provide routine surgical services. When surgery or specialized care is indicated, we can work with your primary veterinarian or appropriate specialist to help coordinate your animal's care.
How much do appointments cost, and do you charge a travel fee?
Please contact Twin Willows Integrative for the current fee schedule. Because this is a mobile practice, fees may vary depending on the type of appointment and location.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Payment is due in full at the time of your appointment.
Preferred payment methods are:
- Cash
- Check
- Zelle
Credit cards are also accepted for your convenience.
Payment plans are not available at this time.
Do you accept pet insurance?
Twin Willows Integrative does not bill pet insurance companies directly. Payment is due in full at the time of service.
We commonly provide an itemized invoice and appropriate medical documentation for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, depending on the terms of your individual policy.
What is your cancellation policy?
Twin Willows Integrative has a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. Appointments must be cancelled or rescheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to a cancellation fee.
How will we communicate after my appointment?
Following your appointment, you will receive individualized recommendations and instructions for your animal's care, if indicated.
For follow-up questions, updates, or non-urgent concerns, text or email is preferred. This allows us to keep communication organized and respond as efficiently as possible.
If your animal is experiencing an emergency or a rapidly worsening condition, please contact your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital rather than waiting for a response from Twin Willows Integrative.
