How Do I Get Started?
1. Request a referral from your DVM by giving them the link (Refer - Vet Portal).
2. Contact Dr. Budiselic to book your visit (equilibriumvet@gmail.com) or 403.938.3841.
3. Book appointment then fill out Patient Registration Form (pdf) .
4. Fill out any other questionnaires provided to you via email (ie. Helsinki Chronic Pain).
5. Bring insurance forms (fill out your portion) if applicable (contact company for coverage details), and ensure you bring documentation of your pet's problem in your own words (writing it down helps) for clarification purposes if you have insurance.
6. On appointment day, allow yourself plenty of time to get to the clinic vs. rushing. Bring some of your fur friend's food if limiting calories for positive rewards (or a treat filled Kong). Use an Adaptil handkerchief or collar for calming during travel (dogs). Please let Dr. Budiselic or front staff know if your dog or cat has specific needs or behavioral concerns and we can accommodate you in the waiting area for a more positive experience. Telling me/us ahead of time is ideal.
7. Navigate to Little Creek Veterinary Clinic (3125, 150 Millrise Blvd).
8. Arrive and smile!
Equipment
Equipment is often discussed during our visits. Some of the items are available through Equilibrium or affiliated suppliers. Dr. Budiselic does not receive gratuities from any of these companies for recommending particular devices. These products are suggested based on Dr. Budiselic's experience using them and from feedback from clients.
TENS or NMES Units (at home pain control)
One of these devices may be prescribed for home use on a case-by-case basis. Devices are available for purchase in clinic and use is demonstrated by Dr. Budiselic on a case-by-case basis (additional appointment time may be necessary to demonstrate use so you are comfortable applying this modality at home). Never use a device without proper instruction first. Reusable, carbon electrodes are available in clinic at additional cost.
Rocktape H2O Kinesiotape (available in clinic)
K Tape may be prescribed for your pet. Use as directed by Dr. Budiselic (demo available in clinic if this modality has been selected for your pet). Never use without proper instruction first. KT packages with instructions on use for various conditions is available in clinic.
Assisi Loop (available in clinic)
The Assisi Loop is an FDA approved NPAID (non-pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory device) for home delivery of non-drug pain control. For a variety of acute and chronic conditions with specific protocols available.
Help em Up Harness (available in clinic)
Best purchased in clinic as this harness requires careful consideration of either the U-band or conventional lift. Useful to help your friend get up, find stability, a little extra insurance when navigating stairs or ice. Comes in a variety of sizes (in clinic fitting available). One of the best harnesses out there and the only one I recommend.
Lil Back Bracer (available in clinic)
I have to admit I wasn't always a fan of external support for intervertebral disc disease, but when this device is combined with core stability work and careful home life modification, it can help provide support especially after an acute flare up or even post operatively. A bit fiddly to size. Fittings available in clinic.
Paw Fect Boots by Loft Industries (available in clinic)
It makes me feel good to recommend these boots made by a local company! They are wonderful company and their boots are amazing. Durable, mostly for indoor use (they are coming out with a trail bootie), that are breathable and do the job. They stay on! Fitting can be fiddly but we can do this in clinic. Check out Roxie's video.
Walkin' Wheels Carts (available online)
Give your fur friend the gift of supported mobility with a cart. Many people think of carts as a "last resort" but I like getting dogs into them earlier especially if they have DM. "Leasing options" are available online through Handicapped Pets Canada.
Therapaw Canada (custom orders available through Equilibrium)
Sometimes joints need extra support and this is where wraps and splints come in. Available for the wrist and ankle. Other products also available (including shoulder support systems and options for amputees). Custom ordered so they fit your fur friend's limbs exactly, and made with all the details to ensure maximum fit and comfort for longer term wear. Often covered by comprehensive insurance plans (pre-approvals can be obtained first prior to purchase). Measured, ordered and fitted by Dr. Budiselic, with instructions given on use/wear. Work well with Anti Monkey Butt Friction Powder (available through Equilibrium).
Hero Braces and Orthotics (custom orders available through Equilibrium)
In some instances, it may be preferable to brace a dog's knee (stifle) because of an ACL sprain. The patient may be older or have issues that do not guarantee a rapid recovery following anesthesia or surgery. In such cases, after much research and deliberation, clients may decide to opt out of the surgical option. Bracing is controversial with not many surgeons or practicing veterinarians recommending their use. These braces may be used in cases of a complete tear, but work best when the meniscus is intact, and the tear is partial in my opinion, although I have used them on complete tears in older dogs with varying success. A referral, appointment booking and initial assessment are required for Dr. Budiselic to counsel on these devices, including whether or not the brace may be an appropriate option for your dog (she doesn't know how appropriate the device will be for your dog unless she assesses your dog). Hero also makes a variety of other devices to stabilise joints.
Ortho Pets (custom orders available through Equilibrium)
Orthopets custom makes a variety of different braces, orthotics (limb supports) and prosthesis (limb replacements) for just about any critter you can think of! A great company to work with.
Fitpaws (available online and through Equilibrium)
Canine (and feline) specific exercise equipment solutions to facilitate your dog's exercise program. Ask Dr. Budiselic what products are available through her supply company to save on shipping costs (many products available next day).