Testimonials

Belle's Story

I brought Belle to Dr. Di Leva in her elder years. I originally saw an ad for her in a Yoga Living magazine I believe. I, myself had just recently experienced personal relief from allergies and illness from acupuncture. I thought how wonderful it would be for my kitty to experience this as well. Since Belle was a senior, we did some acupuncture treatments for arthritis and for some behavioral issues as well. I was amazed how calm and relaxed Belle was after her treatments. She really liked it! I also liked that the office had very relaxing music playing for the animals. It helped Belle rid of the normal "tensions" of going to see the vet.

As well as receiving acupuncture, Belle had her regular check-ups and teeth cleanings with Dr. Rose. After a few years, Dr. Rose noticed some abnormal blood work for Belle. The tests indicated she was in premature kidney failure. This seems to be somewhat common for cats as they get older, as Belle was about 17 years old at the time. Dr. Rose suggested we try subcutaneous fluids with some vitamins in them.She said this would help to preserve the good working cells in her kidneys and keep them healthy. So, we began using the fluids, at first every other day and then eventually every day.

Before we started fluids, I could see Belle was starting to slow down a lot. She was much more fatigued, and not as active as she was before.She also would be very thirsty, drink a lot more water than usual, as well as have symptoms of nausea ,vomiting and constipation. The fluids really seemed to help with these issues. I have friends who had cats with similar problems, and their vets had suggested to have their animals put down at age 16 or 17, which they did. The vets really offered no treatment for the kitty's kidneys other than diet change and/or euthanasia.

As more time passed, Belle's blood was taken periodically to check her progress. Since she had started the fluids, it really had seemed to slow the onset of further damage to her kidneys. Her levels would remain about the same for a while. One instance about 4 years after starting fluids, indicated that her liver enzymes were elevated, and Dr. Rose suggested a liver tincture to give her every day. We later followed that up by adding some herbs for arthritis. These herbs seemed to help prevent further deterioration and alleviate any discomfort she had in her joints and hips. As more time passed, Belle needed some help using the litter box and Dr. Rose suggested another medication that helped her a lot as well.

Belle passed away at 22 years young, nearly 5.5 years after starting her subcutaneous fluids. She lived a wonderful, long life. I truly believe that Dr. Rose helped to extend Belle's life for at least 5 years, if not more. And those years were mostly great, quality time for her. She would perk up after I would give her fluids, chase her tail and enjoy going outside to play. Up until the very end, she was even able to climb stairs and jump onto the window sill to watch the birds outside. She was amazing for such a little old lady!

I was so grateful that we found Dr. Rose and we were able to spend more time with Belle because of the treatments she offers. Belle was my best friend, and I feel she received the best possible care at Dr. Rose's office. Belle was very feisty and not always easy to handle, but Dr. Rose and staff handled her with grace and finesse. I didn't feel like we were just a number in their office. I truly felt they cared. And for that I am always grateful. Belle was certainly in good hands for the remaining years of her life.

Kim Carlson

Rube Blanch

I don't know where to begin, but this is the story of our little dog Rube. He's half Shitzu and half Poodle. He's had back problems since he was 1½ years old. He's 3 years old now. About 3 months ago he jumped out of my husband's truck and hurt his back again. He was in severe pain and was having trouble walking. We immediately took him to our vet. They took x-rays. He had some ruptured discs and some calcification between some discs. They begain to treat him with medication, and we made an appointment for a recheck. His problem steadily got worse. He became completely paralyzed in his back legs. After our third recheck with no improvement our veterinarian suggested surgery, which was very expensive, and it was not guaranteed to be successful and honestly not affordable to us. It was so hard to see him crying and in so much pain. We were on the verge of considering having him euthanized when my husband told me about a guy who had a dog with similar problems. He had spent thousands on surgery and when that didn't work he took his dog to Dr. Rose DiLeva for acupuncture and it worked. My husband called him and he gave us her phone number. We had both been in tears every night thinking about losing our little friend. We made an appointment with Dr. DiLeva. It was our last effort because we hated seeing him in so much pain. After our first visit he stopped crying every night in pain. After our second visit he was walking again. We took him back to our regular vet for a recheck. He could not believe it! Rube was wagging his tail and walking. He said it was a miracle. It wasn't a miracle. It was Dr. DiLeva's acupuncture. It does work. Our whole family is grateful beyond words to Dr. DiLeva and her staff. They have made us so happy to have our little friend back.
THANK YOU ! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!

Burt and Janie Blanch and family

Willow's Story

I can't say enough. Dr. Rose DiLeva and her staff took very good care of our little boy, Willow, for most of his 9½ years. Dr. Rose saved him every time as he tried to use up all his 9 lives. Now a stray has come to us and she just had her first visit with Dr. Rose. As always everyone here is the best, thorough, professional and fun. I wouldn't take any animal that I cared abou tto any other veterinarian.

Theresa Ritzu, Avis Elinsky and Cleo

Jackson Burch - Electroacupuncture

Our experience started on March 16, 2010, when our dog, Jackson, unexpectedly became paralyzed in his back half. He was taken to an emergency vet, stayed for 2 days, and was released with a pretty dismal prognosis. Dr. Fritz, his regular doctor, referred us to Animal Wellness Center. He started acupuncture treatments on March 23rd, 2 times a week. When he started he could not walk, couldn't control his bladder or bowel and was on many meds. After each treatment with Dr. Rose DiLeva, Jackson would show steady progress. He is now receiving once every 2 weeks treatments and is up on all fours, going outside to "potty" and walking!! (and running). He's a happy dog again and even enjoys walks again! He went for his first dip in the pool this past weekend which I think is great therapy! All of this amazing recovery couldn't have been possible without the treatment from Dr. DiLeva!!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Diane and Richard Burch and family (and Gizmo and Penny...the brother and sister to Jackson) July 14, 2010

Fluffy's Story

Fluffy was an exquisite, intelligent yet feisty little Persian girl who will always be remembered as "The Sister"...

In late summer of 2006 Fluffy started to act oddly – Ravenous appetite, hyperactivity and up all night meowing and squeaking. She was diagnosed by my conventional vet as having hyperthyroidism and started medication. While her thyroid appeared to be stabilized she appeared sick and to be growing more frail. I requested more comprehensive blood work and it was found that Fluffy had chronic renal failure. I was devastated, not to mention angry that the underlying disease had not been identified and that time had passed and had negatively impacted Fluffy's health. Her diet was changed – She hated the kidney diet food. Fluffy was losing more weight – She was a petite and could not afford to lose the weight. I was told to "get her to eat." That clearly was not working – No one gets a cat to do anything!

After much of my ongoing late-night research and reviewing medical data and reading the stories of hopelessness for cats with CRF, I somehow came across the website for the Animal Wellness Center and Dr. Rose DiLeva, who worked with tough and often hopeless cases. I called and talked with one of the vet techs and shared my story and made an appointment. I brought in all of the labs results and medical records. Dr. DiLeva took the time to review all the information closely and put the pieces together. Fluffy was treatable, but needed immediate intervention.

Fluffy began to receive acupuncture and was prescribed a kidney tincture to be taken twice per day in conjunction with her thyroid medication. She began to eat a homemade diet of chicken and rice – No canned food. She also was given supplements of Omega 3 and vitamins, which I am convinced, made a huge difference in her sustenance and quality of life. Fluffy was acting like her old feisty self! She gained some weight and her fur was shiny and soft once more.

The progression of Fluffy's disease was slowed. And, as she did progress I learned how to administer sub-Q fluids first once then twice per day – I never thought I could learn how to do that. I felt more empowered to help my dear friend. I could actually participate and make an impact in her treatment. Although caring for a cat with CRF is indeed a roller coaster, I felt assured that I was doing everything in my power to support Fluffy and to offer her an extended quality of life. I was no longer a powerless bystander, watching my dearest friend deteriorate, but a partner in her care.

Through working with the Animal Wellness Center I became well educated about CRF and its challenges. Fluffy hit a few other tough crises which come along with older age – arthritis being one of them. Throughout the whole process, she was treated by Dr. DiLeva with the best of conventional methods and combined with alternative ones. It was a process of focus and strategy -- not common in much of healthcare let alone in the care of animals. I believe that Fluffy would have died not long after her diagnosis of CRF had she not received this combined care. I was aware that we came to a dead end fairly early on within the conventional veterinary medicine approach – As there were no other options offered. But, there was movement and quality to be experienced through getting back to basics and inviting age old Chinese methods into the treatment. Fluffy responded very well to them.

Fluffy died on April 14, 2010 at the age of 17 years old. We had well over two additional years together from that initial visit with the Animal Wellness Center. Dr. DiLeva and her staff were very compassionate and informative through all the stages of Fluffy's treatment – And, I learned a lot about caring for a pet with a chronic disease – As well as about how to be with the process and to support it in a natural respectful way.

In reflection, I feel as though I learned and grew from this experience -- What it meant to care for a dependent and innocent animal. I can also see the limits and gaps of conventional care. Not that it is "bad" -- it is just incomplete – And, can be very transactional and cold. It also often does not acknowledge the finer details and building blocks of health or the special bond of relationship between an animal and a person. I feel that both Fluffy and I were both supported and cared for through her disease and that we had an additional two plus joyous years together as a result. Although the time we have never feels like quite enough, I feel certain that we were given the gift of more - And, I am deeply grateful.

Paula Tropiano

Chester's Story

Dr. Rose & Staff –

Chester and I are always greeted with a smile. The warmth is felt and we greatly appreciate it. Chester was diagnosed with hip dysplasia; therefore he receives acupuncture periodically. The office hours are very accomodating.

Stacy Bland

Kody's Story

Kody came to the Animal Wellness Center with neck pain, allergies, and arthritis. Since getting acupuncture and changing his diet, we've had no signs of neck pain or allergies!

Kody is delighted to be off predisone and allergy meds!

Gina Landle

Hunny's Story

I started bringing my dog, Hunny, here for acupuncture treatments about 8 months ago. I have been so impressed by the care and attention she receives from not only Dr. Rose, but the entire staff. Everyone who works here is so friendly and cheerful and caring. We are always greeted with a smile and my dog feels so comfortable and relaxed around the staff.

The acupuncture treatments have done wonders for her back legs as she is able to get up and down and walk without any discomfort. I am so glad I found the Animal Wellness Center and Dr DiLeva. We live in Drexel Hill so it is a bit of a drive but it is definitely worth the trip and we always look forward to our visits here and will continue to come for as long as we need to!

Amy Burke and Hunny

Greta's Story

My dog, Greta, was 10 years old when she got arthritis and could barely stand up. The vet gave us pain killers but they did not help. My mother's friend gave us Animal Wellness Center information because their dog was being treated for arthritis and some other medical problems. They praised that Dr Rose made a huge difference for their dog.

The first acupuncture treatment for Greta was amazing. She left the office and was running and playing like she was 6 years old again. Ever since the change Greta gets acupuncture treatments regularly. My husband was so amazed at how Greta was acting and walking that he now gets acupuncture for His back and arms.

The quality of life that Greta now has is all because of Dr. Rose and the Animal Wellness Center. I truly don't think Greta would be with us today, 2 years later, if she did not see Dr. Rose. Our vet told me Greta would probably be "put down" due to her arthritis. I refused to accept that outcome and now we don't. Greta was recently diagnosed with cancer and with the help of Dr. Rose and the Animal Wellness Center I am confident we will "WIN". Thank you, Dr. Rose

Heather Tackitt (Greta's Mom)

Jack's Story

In August, 2009, our 12 year old Golden, Jack, tore his ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and could not put any pressure on his leg. His vet said that surgery was the only option. After researching the surgery I decided that I did not want to put Jack through that ordeal. Enter Dr. Rose DiLeva.

We began acupuncture treatments and meds (for pain and healing). Originally Jack came every week for treatments and then every other week until now we come every 3 weeks. Jack can walk again and lives a very happy, normal life. He climbs stairs, rides in the car and plays with other dogs. I honestly believe that had Jack had the surgery he would not have survived.

Thanks to Dr. Rose and her very loving, kind staff, our Jack is doing great. I am so grateful to her and would recommend her services to anyone.

Marge Richards

Velvet's Story

My dog, Velvet, has a history of hip and knee problems. Over the past 4 years she has been getting acupuncture treatments. I started coming here to Dr DiLeva last summer. I have seen an improvement in her since that time. Since starting here, Velvet has learned to enjoy her treatments.

In Feb. Velvet slipped in the snow. She was limping badly, having trouble getting up and could not get on the sofa. At that time she started moxibustion treatments (warming up the acupuncture needles). After getting weekly treatments I have seen an improvement in her walking and ability to get up.

What amazes me is that Velvet really seems to enjoy her treatments and relaxes during them. She never did that before.

Six weeks ago I didn't know if anything would help Velvet. At her age I don't want her to go through any more surgery. But I feel so good about her progress and the fact that we can go for walks again it has been worth the time it takes to drive here from New Castle, Delaware.

Joan Foster

Freckles, Scooter and Dobby's Story

My dogs and I have been clients and fans of the Animal Wellness Center for nearly 4 years now. After going to various traditionally trained veterinarians, I was not happy with the results. I had read a lot about alternative modalities for our animal companions and began the search for a vet who had it all. That brought me to Dr. Rose DiLeva and her excellent staff.

My first exposure was when I had two adult male Cocker Spaniels suffering from various skin aliments. Other vets had given them antibiotics and steroids which did very little. Dr. Rose recommended allergy testing, which we did. From there, we moved to acupuncture and Chinese herbs along with traditional medicine for other problems incurred. They improved enough to give them a better quality of life.

Now I have a Lhasa Apso-terrier mix. (All my dogs had been rescue dogs). He is undergoing acupuncture treatments for herniated disc disease. I wouldn't trust anyone else with this precious life. He loves going to the vet and is very calm and peaceful while there.

While I value the medical expertise of the staff and variety of modalities from which to choose in healing, what I value most is the way my pets and I are treated by the staff. I feel, for the first time, like I am a partner in the health and care of my dogs. I am treated with respect. My questions and suggestions are taken seriously and thoughtfully. My dog (s) and I are always greeted with smiles and personal greetings. We have never had to wait nor have we been in a waiting room filled with other animals. We are given personal attention and are treated as if we are the only clients on any given day.

I couldn't be more pleased and I plan to be a client for as long as I have pets. More than that, I consider Janet, Chris, Teresa, and Dr. Rose to be part of my extended family. The best part!

I would recommend Dr. Rose and the Animal Wellness Center to anyone wanting a caring, proficient, professional, personable place for their pets.

On behalf of Freckles and Scooter, who have left this earth, and on behalf of Dobby who plans to be around for a long time yet, I thank you, Dr. Rose, Janet, Teresa, and Chris for all you do!

Carol Lurty

Bubba's Story

My experience at the Animal Wellness center has been an extremely positive one. Before my Bulldog even turned two, he was diagnosed with arthritis, hip dysplasia and allergies. Right away my vet put him on medication which made him overweight and lethargic. His hip pain prevented him from running, playing and walking up the steps to jump on my bed. That's when I researched and found Dr Rose DiLeva.

After receiving acupuncture and supplements from Dr DiLeva, Bubba was a new dog within two months. It is a miracle ! He is running and playing with no pain. He is treated like a king from the entire friendly staff. He loves his treatment and begins yawning from the very first inserted needle. After a blood test we found out what Bubba is allergic to and he rarely has outbreaks now.

The Animal Wellness Center is a little piece of heaven on earth. It has made my and Bubba's nightmare disappear. Thank you, Dr. Rose and the whole staff. Bubba and I are forever grateful

Alexis Wilson and Bubba