Pet

Acupuncture is best utilized as a part of an overall program of health that makes use of appropriate diet, herbal medicine, Western medicine, exercise, and if appropriate, massage therapy. These should be discussed with your veterinarian. The intention is to work in conjunction with your regular veterinarian to achieve the very best results for your pet.

Types of Acupuncture

Dry Needling involves inserting thin needles through the skin at acupuncture points along energy pathways in the body. This insertion stimulates nerve endings and also creates a piezoelectric current that has different effects depending on which point is chosen. Dry needles are usually left in for 10 to 20 minutes and are sometimes further manipulated during treatment.

Aquapuncture involves giving small injections of vitamin B-12 or saline in the region of an acupuncture point. The injected fluid stimulates the point. This is a good treatment strategy when needles cannot be kept in place.

Electro-acupuncture makes use of battery-generated electrical currents to stimulate points and help move energy along particular pathways in the body. It is helpful in cases of paralysis especially. Not all animals tolerate this technique.

Other acupuncture techniques include moxibustion which involves using heat from a burning herb, hemoacupuncture, and pneumoacupuncture.

Can acupuncture help my pet?

Acupuncture can help animals with a variety of conditions ranging from orthopedic pain and paralysis to gastrointestinal problems, seizures, and renal and liver disease. The intention of treatment is to optimize the flow of vital energy or Qi (pronounced chee) in the body. Qi is a bit like electricity, and manipulating needles in certain areas helps this energy to flow smoothly. The smooth flow of Qi optimizes normal blood flow, reduces pain, and helps the body function at its best.

While acupuncture can be amazingly helpful it is not a magical cure and is not ideal for all situations. For example, fractures usually need to be splinted or surgically repaired—acupuncture may provide additional help with healing and pain control.

Will it hurt?

Many times the patient does not feel the needle, but ideally, there is some mild sensation as the energy or Qi changes in the point being stimulated. In animals, we look for subtle signs like an ear twitch or change in expression. If there is discomfort it should be for only a split second. Anything more than that and the needle is removed.

How many treatments are needed?

Your pet will be examined from both Western and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medical perspectives. A treatment plan will be developed based on your pet’s unique condition. A realistic goal is to see some significant improvement after three treatments. In some cases, remarkable effects can be seen after one session.

Will my pet stop his regular medication?

A pet’s Western medications should NOT be discontinued simply because the animal is receiving acupuncture. Any changes should be made only with your veterinarian’s approval.

Does acupuncture replace regular veterinary visits?

No. You should continue to see your regular veterinarian. Examination by your vet, bloodwork, and similar diagnostic testing is still really important.