Success Stories
Franklin – Small Intestinal Disease
Franklin is a handsome 3-year-11-month, male, Golden Retriever who presented with small intestinal disease/Inflammatory Bowel Disease with low folate and cobalamin. He had regular bouts of nausea, inappetence, mucoid stools, diarrhoea, vomiting and lethargy. He was unable to digest his food efficiently. He also had intermittent conjunctivitis and skin inflammation.
Treatment Goals:
To support the gastrointestinal tract, microbiome and aid detoxification.
To stabilise any imbalances, improve the immune system status and reduce exposure to known allergens.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A novel single protein elimination dietary trial was undertaken, with a ‘Gut Healing Protocol’, probiotics and maintaining a single protein for 8 weeks, and introducing new protein sources slowly going forward. He also received a herbal tincture, glutamine, fish oils, digestive enzymes, vitamins, slippery elm and cobalazorb.
Outcome: His gastrointestinal symptoms have improved significantly. He is now digesting his food efficiently and only has the occasional flare, which is much less intense. He is now on 100% meat minces that include bone, tripe and pumpkin. He is still on daily probiotics, fish oils, digestive enzymes and vitamins. Our aim will be to reduce the supplements to just the fish oils in the future and have him feeling 100% all the time. This journey in supporting Franklins health has taken six months, yet the overall outcome has been positive.
Owners Feedback: August 2025
“We can’t thank Jacqui enough for the care and expertise she provided in getting our golden boy, Franklin, back to health. Franklin suffers from IBD, and it had become so severe that he lost 5 kg, was in and out of the vet’s office every week, and no one could figure out the best way forward. Thankfully, one of our vets recommended seeking holistic care with Jacqui—and it worked a treat.
Through her guidance, we discovered that Franklin is allergic to certain proteins, but most importantly, the supplements and treatment plan Jacqui prescribed have made a world of difference. Where he used to be sick and unwell almost every week, that now hardly ever happens—and best of all, he no longer needs to be given endless amounts of unnecessary medications. If he does become unwell, we can manage it ourselves with her emergency treatment plan, without rushing to the vet.
We are so grateful for Jacqui’s support and highly recommend her to anyone whose furbabies are struggling. Thanks to her care, Franklin is back to a healthy weight and his old happy self. Not having to constantly worry about him has lifted such a weight off our shoulders. We will always be thankful for Jacqui’s kindness and expertise. Thank you, Jacqui, from the bottom of our hearts!”
Finn – Gastrointestinal, Skin Disease and Anxiety
Finn is a charming 4 year old, male Labradoodle who presented with ongoing gastrointestinal, skin disease and anxiety. He suffered from frequent diarrhoea/colitis since a puppy. He also has chronic ear infections and itchy skin. He required regular cytopoint injections to help with his scratching and discomfort. He was unable to tolerate a raw food diet.
Treatment Goals:
To support the gastrointestinal health, microbiome and aid detoxification. To improve the immune / skin health and reduce his levels of anxiety. To reduce exposure to allergens and decrease the use of antibiotics and conventional drugs. To feed a non-processed balanced diet.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Veterinary Nutrition Group formulated a balanced cooked non-processed diet that he has thrived on. In addition we included a herbal tincture, glutamine, omega 3’s, pre/probiotics, medicinal mushrooms and digestive enzymes. An essential oil blend was formulated to help repel fleas. He received flower essences for anxiety. In House Vaccination titre tests were advised prior to vaccinations.
Outcome: August 2025
Owners feedback:
“Finn has come a long way, his quality of life and gut stability has improved significantly. While he still has the occasional bout of gastrointestinal and skin inflammation, the frequency has reduced and the flare ups are not as serious.
We first met Jacqui with our Labradoodle, Finn, almost two years ago. At the time, he was struggling with ongoing gut issues (runny, mucusy stools) and suspected IBD. We had tried everything—different diets and proteins, multiple kibble changes, transitioning to freeze-dried food and then raw—but nothing worked. Two different vets suggested the “easy fix” - to put him on hydrolysed kibble, which we were strongly against.
At our very first consultation, Jacqui prescribed a range of supplements to boost Finn’s immune system, along with natural remedies she mixes herself to help heal the gut. Together, we agreed on a diet plan: a short course of hydrolysed kibble to reset his system, and then another attempt at raw.
It wasn’t a quick fix—it was a long journey with plenty of trial and error—but Jacqui was committed to finding the right approach for Finn. And she did.
Fast forward six months, Finn’s stools improved dramatically, and he became noticeably more energetic and happy. These days, if he does get diarrhea, it clears up within a couple of days thanks to Jacqui’s magical Heel drops. Raw food, unfortunately, wasn’t the right fit for his sensitive stomach, but Jacqui connected us with a wonderful veterinary nutritionist who created a home-cooked recipe that works beautifully for him.
We can’t thank Jacqui enough for everything she’s done for our Finny. We trust her completely, and her ongoing support gives us real peace of mind, knowing that if his condition ever worsens, she’ll be there to help us get him back on track.
She’s also helped us with his ear infections and natural flea control, so I honestly cannot recommend her enough. Thank you so, so much Jacqui—we are forever grateful! Xxx”
- Simi Merhar
Tess – Urinary Incontinence Support
Tess is a fabulous 7 ½ year old desexed female GSP x Staff/Pitbull.
At 18 months she was diagnosed with struvite bladder stones which were medically dissolved with dietary support. After this, Tess developed urinary incontinence. Treatment involved dietary support, Incurin (which was ineffective), and finally Propalin syrup – (which was potentially effective yet this was withdrawn due to behavioural changes of aggression and anxiety).
Her diet was changed to a raw food diet and her owner started taking her to an animal chiropractor; the introduction of the diet change and chiropractor alleviated the incontinence symptoms for a good couple of years.
The incontinence reoccurred. Urine and blood samples analysed were clinically normal. She had a mild hypoplastic, recessed vulva, but otherwise no other physical abnormalities.
Treatment Goals:
To stop the urinary incontinence, prevent infection and urolithiasis. To support the immune system and her general wellbeing.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A raw food diet, herbal tincture, Homotoxicology, Omega 3’s, Medicinal Mushrooms, Pre/Probiotics and Titre testing before vaccinations were introduced.
Outcome:
A significant reduction in the frequency of incontinence episodes on the above treatment protocol. The holistic treatment protocol provided good support for 4 years. In her older years, she has now required conventional support in combination with the holistic treatments.
Marco – Gastrointestinal, Urogenital and Cardiac Support
Marco is a beautiful, 15-year-old male, Toy Poodle.
He had congestive heart failure, kidney/bladder stones, pancreatic inflammation, anxiety, a mast cell tumour and a history of gastrointestinal symptoms.
Treatment Goals:
To support gastrointestinal, pancreatic, kidney, bladder, cancer, immune and cardiac health.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A balanced non-processed diet was introduced, including broth pre/probiotics. Herbal remedies,
Medicinal mushrooms, fish oils, digestive enzymes, glucosamine, CBD (legal in Australia) and deer velvet were also incorporated.
Other modalities included: Essential oils to help with the anxiety. (Many essential oils are adulterated/synthetic, it is very important to get guidance around the use of these) Ozone therapy and acupuncture
Outcome:
His gastrointestinal symptoms stabilised, with minimal vomiting and improved stool quality. His mast cell tumours reduced in size and his cardiac and urinary tract health was maintained well. His anxiety, while still present, has improved.
Owners Feedback: May 2025
"I met Dr Jacqui fortuitously when I was looking for someone to guide me on using ozone for my senior dogs and someone in New Zealand recommended her. I am based in Melbourne and decided to give it a go even though my preference was for an in-person consultation. At first I just wanted to learn how to use ozone but then the consultation became a comprehensive overview for both my dogs. Whilst I have met excellent vets in Australia, none of them have given me the time and attention that Dr Jacqui has. It exceeded my expectations, improved the quality of life for my dogs and I know that I can turn to her for help even for a phone consultation! I wish she lived in Melbourne.
Dr Jacqui provides integrated holistic advice and I couldn’t think of anyone better to provide guidance on the health and well-being of animals.”
Moddy – Joint Pain, Weight Loss, Chronic Fever
Moddy, is a loving 13-year-old male neutered tabby cat.
Moddy presented with recurrent fever, weight loss, lameness, and joint pain. Diagnostic testing revealed neutrophilic inflammation in the right tarsus. His medical history included a chronic heart murmur, hyperthyroidism (on carbimazole), and elevated white blood cells. Despite multiple conventional treatments, including oral steroids and antibiotics Moddy’s symptoms persisted, and his appetite was poor.
Treatment Goals:
To reduce joint pain and inflammation, improve his appetite, weight gain, gastrointestinal status, immune health and well-being.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Transition to a balanced, carbohydrate-free feline diet with broth. The use of herbal medicine, medicinal mushrooms, probiotics, fish oil and collagen to support musculoskeletal inflammation, immune health and infection.
Outcome:
There was a significant improvement in the lameness and hindleg strength.
Moddy’s appetite, coat condition, body weight and overall demeanour markedly improved and the steroid dose reduced with plans for discontinuation.
Owner Feedback: July 2025
"Within two days of giving Moddy the natural products Jacqui recommended, I saw a huge improvement. By March 2025, Moddy was not only pain-free but back to his normal self, enjoying life again. Jacqui’s knowledge of holistic veterinary care is beyond reproach—there will never be enough thanks I can give."
Mayzin – Cancer Support
Mayzin is a stunning 9 year old Mountain Bred Mare.
She was delivered on a cattle truck as a two year old following the Kaikoura earthquake. There was a lot of stress and separation anxiety around moves over this time.
In late December 2024 a growth developed on the right side of her face.
Her diet was supplemented with "hard feed" - meadow chaff, ground linseed, organic cider vinegar, garlic, salt, turmeric and Equilibrium B1 Cool Mix. This improved her dull coat but did little to reduce the growth.
The "lump" was identified as a sarcoma by two vets.
Their recommendations were:
Vet 1. Sedation and surgically removal with a 45% success rate.
Vet 2. Sedation and series of Carboplatin injections "depending on how the sarcoid responded”.
The owner then explored holistic treatment options.
Treatment Goals:
To reduce the cancerous lesion on the side of the face and support the immune system.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A herbal tincture was prescribed along with a topical essential oil remedy to apply directly onto the tumour.
Outcome: Mayzin has had a positive response to the treatment protocol, the sarcoma has resolved.
Owners feedback: May 2025
'From February 18th the herbal remedies and essential oils, had an immediate effect and within two months the sarcoma had completely resolved. Mayzin is now in good health and both of us are very happy and so grateful for Jacqui's expertise and genuine honest caring'.
Mr Glenny – Kidney Disease and Constipation – February 2023
Mr Glenny is a noble 12 year old male castrated tabby cat who presented with renal/kidney disease and ongoing constipation.
He has had a long history of digestive issues, abdominal cramps, furballs, severe constipation and early kidney disease. He was on maintenance laxatives and needed the occasional enema.
Even though his diet was a non-processed raw food diet, he still vomited and had digestive issues. He is now on a home-made non-processed diet which he loves eating and supports him well. It is important that home-made diets are balanced and advice from a professional is required if this is undertaken.
Treatment Goals:
To support the gastrointestinal system, avoid constipation/furballs, and abdominal discomfort. To provide kidney and immune support.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Herbs, Homotoxicology, Probiotics, Omega 3’s, Vitamins, Fibre and Slippery Elm were introduced. He was also put on a phosphorus binder to help support his kidneys. A prebiotic was also put into his water to help with the gingivitis. Ozone gel was used to support his sore bottom.
Outcome: February 2023
His normal signs of aging have improved, the stomach cramps have resolved and he is now passing his stool regularly and comfortably. He no longer needs laxatives and enemas.
His gums are healthier and it will be interesting to retest his kidney profiles as his owner feels that his kidney disease appears to have also improved as he is urinating less frequently.
Most importantly his vitality and general well-being have returned, he meows and chats
His owner says he is now finally tolerates his food better than ever and his energy levels continue to be amazing. He is a lot more active than he was the last couple of years.
Kyser – Mast Cell Cancer Support
Kyser - a loving male de-sexed Rhodesian Ridgeback presented at the age of 7 with a history of reoccurring Mast Cell Tumours (Grade I and II), chronic anal gland infections, conjunctivitis, dermatitis and hindleg discomfort. He also had an anxious disposition.
Even though surgical excision was undertaken the cancer was not completely excised. Growths developed over previous surgical sites and in new areas over the body. The anal gland and skin infections were ongoing despite conventional treatment.
He had received many courses of antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, skin supportive medication, antioxidants and Vitamin C. Despite this he continued to present with the above symptoms.
Treatment Goals:
To support Kyser’s immune system, cancer expression and reduce inflammation. Detoxify the body, address any food intolerances, gut imbalances and potential nutritional deficiencies.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A Herbal tincture, Stem-cell activator, diet change, pre/probiotics, medicinal mushrooms, fish oils and multivitamins.
Outcome: June 2020
Kyser has been on herbal tinctures for two years now. During this time the mast cell tumours have been managed, recently new tumours developed internally but with further holistic support he is maintaining a good quality of life. The other comorbidities, such as the anal gland infections, dermatitis, conjunctivitis have resolved.
The hindleg weakness has also shown an improvement.
Kyser did not have chemotherapy or immunotherapy which is often recommended to aid in the control of mast cell tumours.
His ‘Quality of Life’ is good for 85-90%, which is great.
Integrative therapies are an important tool which can help animals with cancer live well.
Owners feedback:
“I met Jacqui when she worked with Holistic Vets in Tauranga. I have a 9+ year old Rhodesian Ridgeback called Kyser who has had health issues for many years including numerous mast cell tumour removals. His overall well-being was not grea,t so Jacqui recommended a Phytotincture to support his system, which he has now been taking for a couple of years. This improved his overall well-being considerably and Kyser became a much stronger dog. Unfortunately, the inevitable happened last August when we discovered the cancer had spread internally. This was devastating news, but Jacqui worked with me to provide a range of additional supplements to support him and 9 months later he remains strong. I don’t know how long Kyser will be with me, but I believe that without the holistic support, our journey together may already have ended. Jacqui is very passionate about her treatments. Her positivity and honesty make her great to work with and I would highly recommend her.”
Kiki – Respiratory Disease
Kiki is an endearing 8 year old, female spayed Balinese cat, who rules the roost.
Kiki presented with a history of three chest infections over the last 5 years (3 lots of antibiotics) epiphora – watery eye discharge and recently a purulent discharge from the left nostril.
Conventional diagnosis: Upper respiratory tract infection, maxillary sinus involvement and conjunctivitis.
Therapeutic Goals:
To resolve the conjunctivitis, sinus infection and support the lungs.
To enhance the immune system and prevent further susceptibility to respiratory weakness.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Powdered Herbs (Traditional Chinese Remedy), Pre/Probiotics, Fish Oils and Medicinal Mushrooms were dispensed.
Outcome: October 2018
Kiki responded well to the integrative protocol and within 3 days the discharge had almost resolved, within 7 days she was symptom free. She was keep on the preparation for 4 weeks to ensure that a deeper level of immune support was achieved. The owners noted that her breathing sounded clearer, they had noticed mild snoring over the last few months prior to the outbreak of disease which had now resolved.
Boston – Gastrointestinal, Cancer and Joint Support
Boston is a precious 2 ½ year old desexed male Staffordshire Bull Terrier presented with ongoing gastrointestinal issues (since a pup), weight loss, uncomfortable gait, joint pain, muscle wastage, aggression and depression.
X-Rays, blood tests, digestive tests, faecal cultures/analysis were inconclusive. His appetite was ravenous despite weight loss, vomiting and diarrhoea. He started becoming aggressive and the joint pain was becoming worse. Referral to a specialist was undertaken, Inflammatory Bowel Disease(IBD) was diagnosed and an ultrasound potentially identified a mass (tumour?) in his stomach. He started to develop petit mal seizures and had difficulty regulating his temperature. He was then referred to the Veterinary Specialist Group in Auckland. A brain tumour was diagnosed after an MRI and CAT Scan were undertaken.
As the photo depicts, he was underweight, his muscle mass and constitution were poor for a young dog.
He had already received numerous treatments consisting of antibiotics, steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, prednisone, digestive enzymes, antacids, anti-nausea medication, worming and flea treatments. Nutraceuticals, including Vitamin C and joint support formulas.
Treatment Goals:
To restore system balance, reduce gut inflammation, enhance detoxification and improve immune system status.
To also enhance ambulation and reduce joint pain. To support behavioural problems, help the body cope with cancer and improve vitality.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Herbal tinctures, Stemcell enhancement therapy, vitamin, pre/probiotic, omega 3’s and pain supportive integrative treatments.
I suspect that Boston had been born with a brain tumour, this potentially could have metastasised. The important point to note in this very involved case is that in the inclusion of herbal tinctures and later on the Stem-cell treatment significantly improved Boston’s quality of life. The gastrointestinal symptoms had resolved (over the last 16 months), he gained weight, the aggression and the joint discomfort improved significantly. He was maintained on a combination of conventional and complementary care. The integration of the two treatment modalities gave Boston quality time with his family until the tumour symptoms deteriorated his quality of life. This was rapid and the decision to let him go peacefully was undertaken.
In light of all the above, complementary care improved his quality of life significantly which was a heartening and moving experience for all concerned.
Bruce – Diabetes and Severe Skin Disease
Bruce is a gentle and loving 9 year old male, desexed Pitbull Terrier who presented with diabetes and chronic skin infections.
Bruce was an unstable diabetic for 5 years, he had chronic skin allergies and interdigital pyoderma (histology confirmed Chronic Suppurative Podo-dermatitis, with bleeding sores between his toes). Antibiotics were ineffective in treating the feet despite numerous cultures undertaken/appropriate antibiotic use. He had chronic conjunctivitis, anal and lip papilloma virus (warts) and anal gland infections. Response to conventional treatment was poor. In the past prednisone (prior to diabetes) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories had been used. His water intake was elevated and he was very lethargic.
Treatment Goals:
To support the diabetes and try to reduce the insulin requirements. To maintain a more stable glucose curve. To improve the skin. To detoxify the body and treat potential gut health imbalance. To strengthen the immune system, restore balance, improve vitality and quality of life.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Herbal tinctures, Stem Cell Activation, Pre/Probiotics, Fish Oils, Vitamins and Zinc Supplementation.
Outcome: October 2018
Bruce has been on holistic treatments now for 12 months. His skin has improved significantly over this time and his insulin requirements dropped by 3 IU twice daily.
Within six months of introducing herbal remedies and stem cell treatment his quality of life improved significantly with respect to the skin, diabetes and his general vitality.
He is now the best he has been in years. His quality of life has improved significantly and his diabetes is stable. This case demonstrates how complementary medicine can integrate with conventional treatments to improve the quality of life and disease status.
Owners feedback: 2018
“After the initial shock of learning Bruce had diabetes, 6 years ago, I knew it was my responsibility to give my boy the best life possible not really knowing how much of a commitment it would be.
With the help of my vet in Christchurch and soon realising the costs involved, I took it upon myself to monitor and do all blood testing etc at home then relay the info to the vet.
Being a very fussy and temperamental eater it was hard work as his levels were all over the show and there were some very close calls. While I always felt like I was managing his diabetes I never felt like it was under control.
Frequent vet visits and long courses of antibiotics seemed liked the norm in the seemingly endless battle to give him the best life possible. Moving back north seemed to make things worse with the warmer humid temperatures and at one point I thought that the never ending battle with sores on his feet could spell the end of the road for Bruce.
When Jacqui become involved I knew straight away that she was awesome for Bruce. With her genuine caring attitude, holistic approach & thinking outside the box I knew she could help him. After introducing herbal remedies, stem cell treatment and a change in diet, the results were mind blowing!
His feet healed up amazingly and Bruce had a spring in his step I hadn’t seen in a long time and it has stayed this way ever since.
It got to a point where the vet couldn’t give me any more insulin as they hadn’t seen Bruce for so long. It was very delightful.
I would recommend the holistic approach to anyone with a pet in need in particular Jacqui and the team at Holistic Vets. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Such genuine caring animal lovers who aren’t in it to make a profit like a lot of vet clinics I’ve come across over the years.
Thank you so much for helping Bruce have the best life possible. It means the world to me.”
Anthony Fox, 2018
Lucy – Chronic Bladder Infections
Lucy is a fabulous ten year old, female/desexed West Highland Terrier who presented with recurrent bladder infections, ear infections and skin disease over the past three years.
The conventional interventions have included a cystotomy (bladder surgery), numerous urine cultures, long courses of antibiotics and non-steroidal anti -inflammatories. Histopathology supported chronic cystitis and bladder polyps. Her diet was a prescription urinary tract dried food.
She had a recessed vulva with secondary vulval congestion and inflammation. Early desexing may be a causative factor inducing this anatomical abnormality.
Treatment Goals:
Reduce the bouts of cystitis, reduce vulval inflammation, improve skin and gut health. Consider an operation to undertake vulval episioplasty/repair.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
Herbal tinctures, pre/probiotics, omega 3’s and a herbal base topical ointment was applied to the vulva. Non processed diet.
Outcome: January 2018
Lucy experiences fewer episodes of urinary tract infections, her skin and ears improved significantly. Her owner said she is the happiest she has been in the last 12 months. She is also on a homemade diet supporting urinary tract health, her urine is monitored and the occurrence of bladder infections has reduced significantly. The vulva health is maintained, with topical treatments.
Bunty – Osteoarthritis
Bunty is a charming 12 year old Staffordshire spayed female bull terrier who presented due to an ongoing weight bearing lameness of the right hindleg. Non-steroidal pain treatment provided relief, but the pain returned if the medications were discontinued. The owners request was to try and reduce the use of non-steroid pain relief and maintain joint comfort. Gastrointestinal sensitivity was evident with intermittent diarrhoea and her coat was dull and dry.
Radiographs diagnosed bilateral hip dysplasia, with the right hip showing more advanced signs of deterioration and osteoarthritis.
Treatment goals:
To reduce joint pain and inflammation. Improve nutrition, digestion and gastrointestinal function. Optimise energy by increasing vitality, tonify
Integrative Treatment Plan:
She was put onto a balanced non-processed diet, a herbal tincture, omega 3’s and pre/probiotics.
Outcome: January 2018
Bunty has now been on the formula for 18 months. Her general demeanour, coat quality and vitality have improved significantly. She only requires non-steroidal pain relief on very few occasions with the herbs and nutraceuticals controlling most of the pain. She will be maintained on this formula at this stage indefinitely as the owners feel it has significantly improved her quality of life.
Flash – Osteoarthritis, Behavioural and Prostate
Flash is a faithful 8 year old entire male heading dog who's presenting concerns were chronic arthritis, aggression and prostate enlargement.
Flash was purchased as a farm dog at the age of eight years. He was emaciated on arrival, his joints were inflamed, he was aggressive and anxious. Radiographs confirmed osteoarthritis of the elbow joints and spondylosis of the spine. His digits were swollen due to osteoarthritis. His coat was dry and brittle. He also had mild urinary incontinence, dribbling after rising and urinating. His prostate was enlarged, due to his age the owners were reluctant to surgically castrate him and looked at alternate options for management.
Treatment Goals:
The aim was to create a state of active and robust health by reducing joint inflammation, prostate enlargement and anxiety. Due to his age surgical castration was declined.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A combination of chemical castration, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, pentosan polysuphate, herbal tincture, fish oils, deer velvet and glucosamine/chondroitin was prescribed.
Outcome: December 2017
Flash’s general demeanour improved significantly on the above treatment regime. He exhibited less sensitivity over the back and is much more comfortable. The swelling of the digits has decreased significantly. His coat is now shiny and glossy. He is a happier less reactive dog with an improved zest for life and vitality.
This case demonstrates how conventional and complementary medicine can be integrated to create a superior outcome. The use of conventional prostate treatment was maintained in conjunction with herbal and dietary support have provided an exceptional outcome, with Flash now 15 years old and happily going on 10km walks daily.
Barbara - Pneumonia
Barbara is an adorable 3 month old lamb who presented with pneumonia 7 days after the following procedures were undertaken: scabies vaccination, drenching and tail docking.
She was very depressed on presentation, reluctant to walk or move. Her breathing was severely laboured and harsh. Her mandibular glands were enlarged, her gums were pale pink/cyanotic Temperature was 39.7. All the joints and muscles were painful to palpate.
The prognosis was guarded.
Treatment goals:
The herbal treatment aimed to provide immune support with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory actions. This in conjunction with reducing the fever, lung congestion, airway resistance, joint pain and swelling.
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A herbal tincture, antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories were prescribed, along with supportive care. (Indoor housing and intensive nursing).
Outcome: May 2018
Barbara responded well to the antibiotics, non-steroidal medication and herbal remedy. As a precaution, to prevent relapses she was maintained on the herbs for 8 weeks. Barbara’s health and vitality is excellent and she hasn’t looked back.
Gonzo – Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis (GME)
In December 2018 Gonzo developed neurological symptoms - a head tilt (torticollis) to the left side, eye reflex deficits, headaches, head pressing, intermittent nystagmus (eye flicking) and he also circled to the left when trying to walk. He also presented with ‘right sided motor deficits’ indicating weakness over the right side of his body – limbs etc.
An MRI and cerebral spinal fluid cytology were undertaken at Massey University. These tests supported an immune-mediated inflammatory process consistent with GME. He was put on immunosuppressive therapy to try and support the GME symptoms. The symptoms resolved slightly, but he also suffered from side effects related to the drugs.
Treatment Goals:
To support immune system and autoimmune disease. To reduce general inflammation, pain, headaches, neurological deficits and osteoarthritis. To support his gastrointestinal system, any food intolerances, and correct any dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria).
Integrative Treatment Plan:
A herbal tincture, Stem cell activation therapy, Medicinal mushrooms, Nutraceutical support with essential fatty acids, multivitamins, Vitamin C and a non-processed balanced natural diet.
Outcome: April 2019
Within six months of introducing stem cell enhancers, herbal and nutraceutical support, Gonzo’s GME symptoms had resolved. He was weaned off immunosuppressive conventional drugs and his quality of life and energy levels improved significantly.
Generally, the survival time of dogs with GME can range from just over a month to three to six months on average. There are single cases of dogs surviving longer on conventional therapy. Gonzo is now 13 years and 9 months of age (August 2025).
This case demonstrates the integration of holistic medicine into the treatment protocol, which facilitated the removal of conventional drugs, resolution of clinical signs and improvement in the quality of life.
Owners feedback: March 2019
“Just prior to Christmas our tiny Yorkshire Terrier Gonzo was diagnosed with GME (Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis - an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system) by Massey Vets. After a spell in the ICU and course of Chemotherapy we were very grateful to have Gonzo home again. Administering Prednisone daily to keep the horrific GME symptoms at bay, little Gonzo experienced the unpleasant steroidal side-effects; bloating, lethargy, confusion and frequent urination to name a few. In the hope of returning some quality of life to Gonzo, we sought alternative therapies and found Jacqui, who tailored a unique herbal regime for him. After only a few weeks, we noticed an enormous change in his energy levels, he was bouncy, full of life and tearing around the garden! We have been able to reduce the steroids to an extremely low dose and he is in better health than he has ever been.”