Healing Power of Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care 

By Clementina Verge

Many pet owners are pursuing alternative and holistic therapies for conditions ranging from arthritis and soft tissue injuries to digestive issues, seizures, and chronic pain.

“People seek alternatives to Western medicine for themselves, for better results, without potential medication side effects, and they’re doing so for their pets, too,” notes Dr. Karmen Couret, a certified veterinary acupuncturist and chiropractor who sees patients in Bantam, Watertown, Goshen, and Southbury.

Couret, who resides in Litchfield with her husband, son, two dogs, and a cat, graduated from Columbia University and earned a veterinary degree from Cornell University. In 1999, her dog’s battle against cancer propelled her interest in alternative medicine, homeopathy, and physical therapy.

“We are vets first, but some of us sought additional training because we believe in integrative care and using all the available tools,” remarks Couret, who has exceeded 500 hours of training in Chinese herbal medicine and is a member of International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, American Association of Veterinary Anatomists, and American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

From puppies who incurred birth trauma or sustained play injuries, to sporting breeds that “jumped an inch too far,” and aging dogs affected by incontinence, Couret uses adjustments, needles, and laser therapy at all stages of life.  “We look to fix any imbalance,” she explains. “It’s like a reset to factory settings, getting the dog back to health and optimal performance.”—karmencouret-dvm.com