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Expert: - 11/23/2009


Question
Dear Dr. Chambreau:

I have 3 female mice.  I got them in March from woman who had at least 20 living in an all-female colony. One has always had deep-voiced 'chattering.' But lately she paws at her nose and coughs despite having bright, clear eyes and being full of energy. I'm suspecting myco because a second mouse is sounding wheezy.

I have tried exclusion diets for allergens:  Two of the three are very allergic to corn.  Breathing symptoms are worsened by Timothy hay.  I now make bedding out of scrap paper so there is no dust or wood phenols.

Is there an alternative to antibiotics?  I've done a lot of reading (mostly about rats,)and it seems that antibiotics work SOMETIMES for mycoplasma.  There's a vet nearby who was recommended by the rat expert on this site, so she is probably good with mice. I'm considering taking my mice to her for "conventional" treatment.  I'd prefer to avoid that route.  I took a mouse to a vet in 2005.  The treatment worked briefly, but was useless long-term.

Answer
Yes, there are many alternatives to antibiotics, Brynne. You will need to find a holistic practitioner near you, if possible, who specializes in the holistic or integrative approach AND small exotics.

1. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine: www.IVAS.org & www.TCVM.com - there are some listing from around the world.
2. Homeopath (these can often help you by phone or email  if no other holistic practitioners are nearby that you like): www.theAVH.org
3. Chiropractor - www.animalchiropractic.org
4. Wide range of other treatments: www.AHVMA.org, American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association

Since the homeopathic veterinarians can consult by phone, that will help if you find no-one near you. Dr. Ramelmeier - (410) 531-9213, and Dr. Doug Yearout 425-334-8171 are two who are good. You can look for others who treat the exotics on the www.theAVH.org list.

Good healing without antibiotics,
Dr. Chambreau

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Dr. Christina Chambreau

Expertise

I can give you the holistic approach to any problem in any species, though mostly I work with dogs and cats. Depending on the condition and the type of animal, I will be able to give very specific treatment suggestions such as what flower essences, homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplements, diet changes, lifestyle changes or herbs that may be helpful - not drugs. I can also suggest where you can go for further education or to find a specialist in a specific holistic field. I can help you understand why your animal is ill and what improvements can be expected. I do not check messages more than every one to two days, so PLEASE DO NOT ask about EMERGENCIES - call your local veterinarian. I cannot diagnose your animal. I cannot prescribe specific treatments. I am no longer very current with conventional treatments, so cannot answer questions on those. I am not an expert on birds or small critters. I will give you helpful connections about hose species.

Experience

I graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1980 and began using homeopathy in my practice after a client introduced me to it. By 1988 I was using exclusively holistic treatments. I began lecturing in 1987 and have spoken at veterinary conferences, health food stores, people's homes, churches, veterinary college conferences - anywhere people want to learn more about keeping their animals healthy.

Organizations
Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy (I helped found this one) American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association National Center for Homeopathy American Veterinary Medical Association

Publications
I have written in many magazines, journals and newspapers. A few include Bark Magazine; Journal of the AHVMA; Baltimore Dog Magazine; Whole Dog Journal; Tiger Tribe; Wolf Clan. I have also been frequently interveiwed on radio and TV.

Education/Credentials
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Certified Veterinary Homeopath (CVH)

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