What Is Pet Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese practice of treating medical problems by stimulating acupoints on the body using a variety of methods, including needles, injections, electrical stimulation, and cold laser. Acupuncture has been used in animals and humans for thousands of years. It is one of the treatment modalities of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).
How does acupuncture work?
Stimulation of acupoints simulates the central nervous system to help the body heal. It causes release of neurotransmitters such as beta-endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine to decrease pain and improve mood. It also increases the production of stem cells and enhances local blood flow. According to Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), acupuncture works by balancing and maintaining the flow of Qi (life force or energy) in the body.
What can acupuncture treat?
We typically use acupuncture in conjunction with traditional Western medicine. It’s helpful for:
- Joint pain and difficulty with mobility (from arthritis, injury, or other causes)
- Back pain and spinal problems (including IVDD)
- Neurological disorders, such as seizures
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Kidney and liver disease
- Disorders of the immune system
- Providing support to the body while fighting cancer
- Many other conditions
Some of the best responses to acupuncture are seen with chronic conditions.
Acupuncture is particularly well-suited to treating patients with multiple conditions, as we often see in senior pets. Although it’s best to focus on the one or two most pressing concerns at the time of each session, this treatment modality is very fluid and changes to meet a patient’s needs over time.
What happens at an acupuncture appointment?
Typical acupuncture appointments usually last 30-45 minutes; the first appointment involves a more extensive assessment and may take up to an hour. Once needles are placed, your pet needs to be relatively quiet for 10-20 minutes. You will stay with your pet throughout the visit. The treatment is performed by Dr. Kaplan, who is a certified veterinary acupuncturist.
What if my pet won’t stay still for their acupuncture treatment?
Don’t worry! Your pet doesn’t need to be completely still for the entire treatment. Once the needles are in place, some movement is okay. We often use treats to entertain your pet during the treatment and we always welcome you to bring your pet’s favorite toys or treats to keep them occupied. Many pets feel a sense of relaxation during acupuncture and some even take a nap!
When will the treatments take effect and how many treatments are required?
Depending on the symptoms being addressed, pets may experience improvement immediately after the first treatment. However, acupuncture’s effects are often cumulative and 4-5 sessions should be completed to truly assess efficacy. After these initial sessions, we will discuss whether further treatment is necessary. Acute conditions (such as a torn ligament) typically require short-term treatment, whereas chronic conditions (such as arthritis) necessitate a longer treatment course.
Meet some of our acupuncture patients:
Lula, 6, a French Bulldog, snacks during acupuncture for hip dysplasia.
Charles Dickens, 17, getting acupuncture for kidney failure and arthritis.
Bear, a 13-year-old mixed breed, getting acupuncture for chronic eye issues.
