Overview

At a glance, acupuncture therapy may seem like an unnecessary way to spoil your pets. However, according to the American Animal Hospital Association, there are proven positive effects that can enhance your pet’s quality of life. Acupuncture is a pain-free form of treatment that involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to stimulate healing. This treatment should be considered if your pet is suffering from pain, inflammation, anxiety, gastrointestinal problems, neurologic conditions, and cancer, amongst a variety of other diseases or syndromes. It is important to remember that your doctor may recommend treatment with both Eastern Medicine (acupuncture, herbals, and nutrition) and Western Medicine (what most would consider “typical” veterinary medicine) for optimal treatment of your pet.

Why would my pet need acupuncture therapy?

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) can help with the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of ailments and diseases. Acupuncture is one of the treatment components in TCVM. This relaxing treatment for your pet improves tissue blood flow and oxygenation, while removing metabolic waste and toxins. Additionally, acupuncture therapy and herbals lack the negative side effects that prescription medication can potentially have on your pet’s internal organs by decreasing the amount or even removing the need for prescription medications. This means that it can be safely used alongside other mediums of treating pet illness.

When is acupuncture therapy appropriate?

Veterinary acupuncture can be incredibly useful in treating a variety of conditions, particularly those that involve inflammation and pain. This treatment should be considered if your pet is suffering from pain or inflammation caused by: arthritis, cancer, metabolic disease, traumatic nerve injury, degenerative joint disease, asthma, and many other conditions. Consult your local veterinarian to determine if acupuncture therapy is the right choice for your pet.

How does acupuncture therapy work?

Veterinary acupuncture has been used for hundreds of years on domesticated animals and has only in the past few decades become an acceptable and promoted therapy in the western hemisphere. It stimulates specific points of the body that alter various physiological and biochemical conditions, assisting in the body’s effort to heal itself. Acupuncture can stimulate nerve regeneration, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms, and cause the release of hormones.

It is important to note that acupuncture does not necessarily cure conditions—it restores energy flow, aiding in improved or cured health conditions. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications recommended.

Acupuncture Protocol

Acupuncture uses extremely thin needles that causes minimal to no pain, and because of that, are generally well-tolerated by pets. However, incorrect placement of the needle or inadequate sterilization can result in pain or complications.

Duration of treatment can vary depending on the condition of your pet, as well as the number of treatments needed. Chronic conditions may take a few treatments for a positive response to be seen. After optimum responses are achieved, treatments may taper off.

With advanced equipment and progressive methodology in integrative medicine, we are committed to providing the best possible acupuncture pet care for your furry friend. Every test, decision, and treatment is customized to the specific needs of your dog or cat so that they can manage their condition or recovery and live out their happy, healthy lives with you.