Testimonials - Traditional & Holistic Care

Mary
We trust Dr. Turenne completely with going through cancer with our dog. She and the staff were right there for us through it all!
-Sheila, Ann Arbor, MI (2011)

Juneau

Always the best care and unbelievably friendly service. Thank you!

- Michael, Ann Arbor (2011)

Mellow
My 15 year old Lab "Mellow" owes her life to Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital! She has been treated here since she was born and the caring staff at WVH have given her a long and happy life. Dr. Turenne's knowledge of traditional medicine and holistic options, coupled with much compassion, have kept Mellow moving without pain and able to enjoy life even now! Thank you!
-Janene, Saline, MI (2011)

Emma
Dr. Turenne is just simply the best! Her attentive attitude and calm treatment of the dogs is amazing!
-Miro, Ypsilanti, MI (2011)

Chloe, Nigel, and Quinn
I am so pleased to be able to take my pets to WVH. I feel like they are being taken good care of by family. WVH offers an unbeatable combination of cutting edge science and sound alternative medicine.
-Joanne, Ann Arbor, MI (2011)

Bo& Woodson
I love all of you. You have been so very kind to me and my dogs. You are the best. Always helpful and kind. I have been coming here for years now and plan to keep coming. When my dog Jalen passed away you were so wonderful. I can not thank you enough. Also, thanks for going above and beyond when my dog Woodson got loose outside!
-Betty, Plymouth, MI (2011)

Kitty Cat
I have brought my dog and my cats to Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital, and I have always been very happy with their services. I recently brought my parents’ cat in because she was very ill. This was an extremely difficult time for my family; my father was in the hospital because he was dying. It was so important that their cat pull through at this point – losing more than my father was too much for anyone in my family to bear, and it is highly difficult to lose a pet in the first place. The staff at Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital were like rocks for my family during this difficult time. They gingerly nursed our cat back to health and gave her the highest quality of care possible. However, they not only gave our cat the highest quality of care, but they treated us in the same manner. Their kindness to our family at this time is immeasurable, and we will deeply appreciate them for years to come. I would recommend Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital to anyone and everyone. The care they provide is extremely intimate and personalized.
-Mary Ann, Clinton, MI

Katie (Cushings disease) & Quinn (multiple issues)
Two of my three dogs have been cared for by Dr. Turenne since they were puppies. I have always felt that my dogs have received cutting-edge medical care from the doctors at WVH, both Western and Eastern, and we all receive compassionate holistic care. The entire staff is concerned about my canine family life. Dr. Turenne cared for my Dachshund, Katie, through a long bout of Cushing's and supported us both with extraordinary end-of-life care. My youngest, Quinn, was a rescue who needed major surgery and had multiple physical and mental complications. Throughout his care at OVRS, Dr. Turenne coordinated his care and kept on top of everything, taking all the time I wanted to answer questions. I know that me and my pets will always receive prompt medical care and respect from WVH.
-Joanne, Ann Arbor, MI

Cooper
My dog, Cooper, has been cared for by Dr. Turenne and I have been completely satisfied. It has been apparent throughout my dog's care at WVH that the doctors and staff genuinely care about my pet. They always offer multiple treatment options and are considerate about how these treatments will affect not only our dog but our family as well. I have also always been impressed that the doctors are very careful about how many vaccines they give Cooper. Before vaccinating him, the staff always asks about our lifestyle and then vaccinates accordingly. It is comforting to know that WVH does not recommend treatments that are unnecessary for my pet. By taking Cooper to WVH, I am offered peace of mind that the doctors and staff truly have his best interest at heart.
-John, Milan, MI

Foster (liver disease and blood disorders)
Dr. Turenne has gone above and beyond for an extended period of time to treat my dog, Foster, for liver disease and blood disorders.
-Barbara, Ann Arbor, MI

Maizey

We love the excellent care always given here. The staff are always very caring and compassionate in every situation.

-Christine, Ann Arbor, MI

Clancy and Coco

I am thrilled with the services and care that my whole family receives at WVH. Many wags and licks to you all.

-Pam, Ann Arbor, MI

Testimonials - Acupuncture

Mac (multiple cancers)
Our 10 year old American Pit Bull Terrier, Mac has battled several types of cancers over the last 3 ½ years. After many surgeries and a round of radiation treatment we began looking for alternative treatments. When we discovered that Dr. Turenne was a certified acupuncturist, we were excited to see if it would help him. We started the treatment 7 months ago and have been impressed with the results. Dr. Turenne has a tremendous amount of knowledge, skill and compassion. Our family has been so grateful for the time with have with Mac and feel strongly that through the use of acupuncture, herbs and nutrition therapy his quality of life has greatly improved. He has more energy, no pain and is able to go on long walks again. While he doesn’t love the treatment itself, he tolerates it well and is relaxed after. Dr. Turenne and the entire staff at Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital have been wonderful. We highly recommend the office and the use of acupuncture.

-Kati and Jeff, Ypsilanti, MI (2011)

Buddy (spinal issues)
Our dog "Buddy" is 6 years old, gentle, shy, rarely barks, a complete timid fellow. When he went outside he loved to run. Boy, was he fast. He had super speed. He ran like a greyhound! We have chickens and he just loved to run through them making them scatter. Buddy is a rescue dog. He was abandoned twice and abused before he came to live with our family. Everyone loves Buddy. What a sweet dog he has become. When he sits next to me, he puts his paw up on my leg to get my attention, knowing that I will rub and scratch his head and loving every minute.

One cold Saturday night Buddy went outside as usual. Time for all the dogs to take a break. They were out 45 minutes. When I let them in Buddy came in but was tucking his back end and when morning came, he could not walk, I had to carry him in from outside in pain and crying. Buddy, my friend, my son and I took a trip to an emergency vet. The x-ray showed a narrowing of his spine. His treatment would require a specialist, a surgeon, and no guarantees. We didn't want him to go through that.

We searched for something else. A chiropractor? Acupuncture? The Internet provided a wealth of information. That's when my friend found Dr. Turenne. Finding her saved Buddy's life. His back legs did not move. The tops of his back feet became bloody from the dragging. There was pain and the humiliation of having to wear a diaper. What a quality of life. I was afraid we were going to have to put him to sleep. It broke my heart! He had such a tough start, and I was determined to give it my best shot to see if something could be done to make him better.

We decided to see Dr. Turenne. My husband read of some successes using acupuncture. She examined him to see if he would be a candidate for acupuncture. The treatments began. Needles stuck in so many places. Buddy took it well. She also prescribed two herbs. After only a few treatments there seemed to be remarkable improvement. We were amazed and so grateful to Dr. Turenne.

Now Buddy can walk and is no longer in any pain. I know if it hadn't been for the treatment of acupuncture and the kind hand of Dr. Turenne, Buddy would not be with us today. He is a great dog and a special gift in our lives. Dr. Turenne and her staff have been a Godsend.

-Sandy S., New Boston, MI (2011)

Piper (lymphoma), K.C. (hip dysplasia), and Sebastian (moodiness)

Piper, our Brittany Spaniel who is now 9.5 years old, was diagnosed with a benign lymphoma in his face growing behind his eye. We had it removed once and it quickly grew back again putting pressure on his eye. We were referred to OVRS. His surgeon removed a portion of his cheekbone to help prevent him from losing his eye when it grew back again, which it surely would since it had invaded the fat around his eyeball. He suggested we try alternative medicine, i.e. acupuncture and herbs. We met with a specialist up there first then followed up with Dr. Turenne. She evaluated Piper and started him on herbs and special diet because he was a "hot" dog. That was 3 years ago. Piper now gets treatments as needed. He lost about 8lbs. which he needed to do. The tumor is still there but growing VERY slowly now. He is in the best physical shape he has ever been in with no lack of energy. He continues to hunt birds with "Dad". He takes his herbs twice daily and stays on "cool" foods.

Our younger Brittany Spaniel, K.C., who is now 7 years old, was discovered to have hip dysplasia on one side at 1 yr old. Within about 3 years, she proceeded to tear up both her knees requiring TPLO surgery and then luxated her patella. By 4 years old she could barely jump on the couch. She was crabby, grouchy and not a happy dog with anyone. We decided to try acupuncture on her. She had one treatment per week for 6 weeks and was placed on herbal blend called body sore. She was found to be a "cold" dog and needed "warm and hot" food diet. With the combination of acupuncture, herbs, and diet, she is like a new dog. She is happy, playful, thin and hunting once again. She can hop up into the bed of a pick up truck like a mere pup. Whenever we notice her limping or slowing down, we bring her in for a quick fix and she is like new again.

Our daughter’s Cavalier, Sebastian, also receives acupuncture treatments at the Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital. When Sebastian gets "out of balance", he gets moody and obstinate. One treatment and he once again is a happy loving energetic Cavalier. You can't tell a dog that these needles or herbs will help them, so it isn't a matter of psyching them out. It just works! We are ever thankful to Dr Turenne and the Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital.

-Don and Diana, Ypsilanti, MI (2011)

Zach (back problems)

Our English Cocker, Zach, has had a recurring disc problem for the last several years. It seemed as if our only viable option was back surgery with a long and difficult period of recovery. However, after 2 months of acupuncture, Zach has shown distinct improvement in mobility and temperament and he seems pain free. We will be continuing the therapy.

-Bert, Ann Arbor, MI (2011)

Wilson (chronic pain)

At four years old, Wilson, our yellow Labrador retriever runs, plays with our children and is a wonderful addition to our family. But he hasn’t always been able to do so. At one year, Wilson was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, arthritis in his front elbows and bilateral torn anterior cruciate ligaments. His chronic pain was causing destructive behavior (chewing) and a host of other conditions (including excessive shedding) that were impacting the quality of his life. In addition, long-term pain medications were taking their toll. The worst was the sad look in his eyes. He was a puppy and yet he had the look, energy and mobility of an elderly dog.

After consulting with specialists at Michigan State Veterinary Hospital and trying a host of medications, we consulted with Dr. Monica Turenne at the Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital about the possibility of managing Wilson's chronic condition and pain through acupuncture. The results were nothing short of miraculous. After his initial treatment Wilson was able to sit without tipping over for the first time in his young life! He had increased flexibility and range of motion in the back legs. The chewing and shedding stopped and we were able to take him on leash walks for the first time in his life.

Wilson now receives his treatment once a month and in fact looks forward to it! He walks right into the office and makes himself at home in the treatment room where he awaits Dr. Turenne. There is no placebo effect in animals. Treatments either work, or they don’t. The animal either feels good – or not. With acupuncture as well as other treatments recommended by Dr. Turenne, we now expect Wilson will live a long, healthy and happy life!
-Francine, Ann Arbor, MI (2011)

Pia (spinal stroke)

In early December 2010, my five year old French Bulldog, Pia, had a spinal stroke. It came with no warning. Pia’s left side was suddenly useless and her right side was weak. She could barely lift her head. She saw a veterinary neurologist who said that the only thing that could be done was for us to take her home, turn her and try to do some physical therapy. There was no prognosis. We didn’t know if she’d live or die. We went home and worked with Pia. After two weeks she was able to sit up on her own and take a step or two, but she fell over a lot. Her progress was so slow we were so very worried. I posted Pia's plight in an online veterinary forum. Someone made the suggestion that acupuncture and Chinese medicine could be of help to Pia, and that the Chi Institute had a list of vets. Through that website, we found Dr. Turenne.

Dr. Turenne spoke with me at length by phone, we set up an appointment and a few days later, we made the 50 mile trip from Toledo, not really knowing what to expect. On that first visit, we went into the acupuncture therapy room, a room that’s as cozy as my living room. Dr. Turenne came in and got right down on the floor with Pia, who greeted her with well received puppy kisses. Dr. Turenne did a very thorough "western” exam and then a Chinese medicine exam. Pia was never uncomfortable with any of this. Dr. Turenne explained her exam thoroughly and we discussed Pia’s history.

Dr. Turenne felt that Pia could benefit from acupuncture, and so we proceeded on that first visit. She said she wasn’t going to do a rigorous treatment the first time because it could be too much for Pia. She inserted about 10 thin needles into Pia in various places, starting with one on top of her head and on top of her hips, which she said were happy spots. The only time Pia felt any pain was when she inserted three needles into her left foot (the dangly, completely non-working foot). Then she hooked 6 of the needles up with thin wire cords and tiny little alligator clips to an electric source machine (must have been battery powered). There were dials on the machine with writing in both English and Chinese. She turned the dials up until Pia got little twitches in the areas of the needles, and then backed off on the power a little bit. I sat on the floor with Pia for 10 minutes. We didn’t want her trying to walk around with all the needles and wires. Dr. Turenne came back in, did some adjusting, changed the power settings and then we sat for 15 minutes. Then she came back and removed the needles. Pia was amazingly calm through this whole procedure. The only sign at all of pain was with the insertion of the needles in the left front foot.

After the treatment, we discussed Pia’s diet and the possibility of Chinese herbals. Dr. Turenne said she liked to consider each patient for a while before coming up with recommendations on diet and herbs. I liked that she considered the whole picture and didn’t just rubber stamp the same treatment plan on every patient.

When we got home, it was obvious to our entire family that Pia had gotten much benefit from this treatment. She was able to use her left rear leg much better, and she managed to lope down the hallway to greet our daughter when she came in the back door. Before that, Pia hadn’t taken more than a few wobbly steps. That evening, Pia wanted to play tug-of-war with The Purple Bunny, her favorite squeaky toy. We felt like our Pia was coming back to us.

We saw Dr. Turenne again in a week for her second acupuncture treatment. Pia had no hesitation at all and greeted Dr. Turenne like an old friend. She allowed Dr. Turenne to place many needles, during which time, Dr. Turenne spoke reassuringly to her. Pia was calm and comfortable, accepting of all. After the second treatment, we discussed diet and Chinese herbals. During the week since Pia’s first treatment, Dr. Turenne had consulted with others in the Chinese veterinary medicine community . I appreciated it so much that she was willing to do this for Pia. Pia started taking Chinese herbal capsules that have an amazing array of ingredients. Dr. Turenne gave us food lists for Pia’s therapeutic diet. She is now eating foods that we prepare at home, based on what Pia needs to balance out her energies. Pia (and our other dog and cat) think their homemade food is totally gourmet.

Before we came to Dr. Turenne, I felt like we were not doing enough to help Pia recover. We weren’t looking for a complete cure or a 100% recovery, just a chance for our sweet Pia to live a happy life. We wanted to do more for Pia but we just didn’t know what “more” was. After Pia’s second acupuncture treatment, she came home, bounded down the hallway and leaped onto the sofa. It wasn’t graceful, but she did it! Now we know what “more” is. It is Dr. Turenne!

We know that Pia still has a long recovery time ahead, but the improvements she has made since starting acupuncture are truly remarkable. We look forward to further progress as Pia continues her acupuncture treatments, her Chinese herbal medicine and her new “gourmet” foods. Dr. Turenne and the rest of the staff at Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital are wonderful.

-Bonnie, Toledo, OH (2011)

Frank (hip dysplasia and liver tumor)

Acupuncture has helped my border collie Frank with the pain of hip dysplasia. Following each session there is a pronounced decrease in Frank's licking of his front legs, which is one of his signs of pain. Dr. Turenne has also used acupuncture and Chinese medicine to slow the growth of a liver tumor in Frank. These seem to have helped Frank live a quality life for over a year since his initial diagnosis, without surgery or chemotherapy. Walking, playing with frisbees, and riding in cars continues to be the joys in Frank's life. For this I thank Dr. Turenne for her skill in animal acupuncture and Chinese medicine prescription.
-Gerry, Ypsilanti, MI (2011)

Jake (anal gland issues)

We have a 90-lb., nine-year-old dog named Jake. He is a German shepherd/Rhodesian ridgeback mix. We moved from Brooklyn, New York, in the Spring of 2010 to Whitmore Lake, Michigan. Jake soon began to have anal gland issues where they became infected on both sides. He was making a mess in our house and was having a difficult time going to the bathroom. We were using a different vet at the time who expressed Jake's glands three times along with three different rounds of antibiotics. Each time it helped for a short while, but then the same symptoms would flair up again. Our vet told us that we should have a surgical procedure where they put the dog under general anesthesia and saturate his glands with an antibiotic. This method was not a guarantee but seemed to be the best option available. The procedure would also cost several hundred dollars.

We were uncomfortable with the amount of antibiotics we were using on Jake, so we began to look for a different vet. We were lucky to find Dr. Turenne in the Crazy Wisdom newsletter. At our first visit, we noticed how gentle she and all her staff were with Jake, and how comfortable he was. Dr. Turenne used Eastern and Western approaches in diagnosing Jake. We did a consultation with her on Jake's history to determine his personality and why he was experiencing this condition. She recommended herbal compresses and a Chinese powder to treat Jake initially, and then acupuncture for a more long-term holistic approach.

Within a week, Jake's glands had improved significantly. the infection was gone and only slight swelling remained in one of the glands. Another two weeks and Jake was as good as new, without receiving any more antibiotics or having to have surgery. To this day, Jake has had no relapse.

Dr. Turenne is very responsive to the preferences of her clients and seamlessly integrates multiple medical approaches into a holistic way of treating animals. We are most grateful to her insight and skills that brought our dog Jake back into balance.
-Jefree, Ypsilanti, MI (2011)

Kaya (hip dysplasia and arthritis)

My animal companion and sidekick in life is a ten-year-old yellow Lab/Husky mix named Kaya. For years she has suffered from hip dysplasia and arthritis in her back hips. She’s the only dog I know that walks bow legged. We have given her aspirin daily and made sure her food contains glucosamine, since we rescued her at two years old.

This winter and spring she got really bad. She had trouble getting up. Sometimes she could not make it up the stairs. She didn’t want to go outside. She lacked energy and she looked like she was in constant pain.

So I took her to the Vet. The vet gave us the option of giving her shots in the back hips.

We did a month worth of shots, and Kaya was not getting better, instead things were getting somewhat worse. Her back end had started to slide out from under her. It is not cool to watch your dog come around the corner and slide across the kitchen floor into the fridge, not to mention it’s hard on the fridge door.

Around this time, I started to think about putting her down because I didn’t want her to suffer all summer and not to be able to do anything. A friend of mine came over and noticed how bad Kaya was limping. So I told him the whole tale. He suggested I try acupuncture. Being a scientific researcher, I was skeptical to say the least, but figured I had nothing to lose. So I looked in the yellow pages and found that Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital did acupuncture. I called and made an appointment.

To make a long story short, after the first treatment, we notice an immediate improvement. Kaya looked happy. Most of the time she can make it up the stairs, and she can get up faster. For the first month she had a treatment every week. Then we went to every two weeks and now we are down to once a month.

Kaya at the present time is doing great! She lumbers, because she never did run well, after squirrels. She is back to following me everywhere I go, and she’s back to walking, just not long ones. Oh by the way, if a dog can smile she is smiling all the time . Kaya even likes the treatments, but that may have something to do with the frosty paw she gets afterward. I would definitely recommend acupuncture to anyone who asked me.
-Lisa, Ann Arbor, MI