What is Acupuncture for Pets?

Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese practice of placing needles into the body at specific points along lines called Meridians. The points typically are in close proximity to nerve bundles, major blood vessels, trigger points or where cranial nerves exit the skull.

How does Acupuncture for Pets work?

Acupuncture stimulates the nervous systems locally and centrally to release naturally occurring pain relievers and anti-inflammatory factors. Acupuncture also improves blood flow and relaxes muscles where the needles are inserted. In other words, Acupuncture helps the body to heal itself.

Acupuncture can improve treatment of chronic disease in pets by reducing the amount of pain medications needed to treat these pets. Systemic anti-inflammatory and pain medications are quite safe but they can have an effect on organ function. Acupuncture has no systemic side effects.

Acupuncture can be used for general wellness through preventive medicine and stimulation of the immune system. It can also benefit the musculoskeletal system of athletic or working dogs. Acupuncture is also beneficial in speeding healing time and decreasing pain after acute injury or surgery.

Does Acupuncture have risks or side effects?

Side effects of acupuncture are rare. It is not recommended in pets who do not tolerate needle placement or have clotting disorders.

What conditions in pets can be treated by Acupuncture?

Arthritis

Hip Dysplasia

Nerve Problems

Lameness

Ligament Injuries

Back Pain

Skin Problems

Respiratory Disease

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Ocular Conditions

Urinary Tract Conditions

Reproductive Disorders

What to Expect in a typical Pet Acupuncture session?

Before your appointment, the doctor will review your pet’s medical record and any blood work or radiographs that may have been done. During the first appointment the doctor will do a history taking and thorough examination of your pet. The doctor will discuss treatment plan options and explain what is happening during the session. The first visit will last approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Follow up sessions will last between 45-60 minutes. The acupuncture treatment itself may only last between 20-30 minutes.

Even nervous or anxious pets may accept acupuncture treatment. Once the needles are placed, pets often feel relaxed and calm. Treatment frequency is determined by the condition but most start with frequent sessions that taper to less frequent visits. The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative with each session. It can also take a few sessions (up to 3), to see results. The goal is to maximize benefits with the least number of sessions needed to maintain results.

After the appointment your pet may feel sleepy or sore. These affects should only last up to 24-48 hours.