Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a safe, minimally invasive treatment for pets. It is quick to perform and helps promote healing in dogs, cats, and other animals.

What is Pet Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an aspect of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that was believed to correct energy imbalances. Today we are learning that acupuncture causes physiological and chemical changes in your pet’s body to help them heal. It is an alternative and complementary therapy for pets in situations where:

• Your pet can’t take a certain medication
• Medication is not completely effective.
• Your pet isn’t a good candidate for surgery or other medical treatment options

How Does Pet Acupuncture Work?

To perform this treatment, a vet inserts thin, sterile needles into specific points on your pet’s body where nerves and blood vessels and fascia converge. The needles enhance blood circulation and stimulate the nervous system, helping to decrease pain and reduce inflammation.

Acupuncture treatments typically last between 20 and 45 minutes. The number of treatments your pet will need depends on their condition. Some patients may see results immediately, while pets with chronic conditions may take a week or two of treatment to see a noticeable improvement.

Is Acupuncture Painful for My Pet?

Pets are safe and comfortable during acupuncture treatment. Most pets do not feel any pain from acupuncture because the needles are very fine — nearly as fine as a single strand of hair. Many pets even fall asleep during treatment because of its relaxing effect. Most pets can also be treated without sedation.

What Are the Benefits of Pet Acupuncture?

Acupuncture can help relieve your pet’s discomfort and increase healing. It improves blood flow and helps reduce waste in the body, making it easier for organs to function properly. Acupuncture also relaxes muscles where the needle is inserted and throughout the body for local and general pain relief.

Acupuncture is virtually pain-free and has no side effects, making it an ideal treatment for many pets — especially seniors and those in poor health.

What Conditions Can Pet Acupuncture Treat?

Pet acupuncture can be an effective form of treatment for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Allergies
• Anxiety
• Joint inflammation
• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Hip Dysplasia
• Muscle soreness
• Skin problems
• Lack of appetite
• Gastrointestinal issues

Acupuncture may be a good fit for pets with many other conditions as well. Your vet will work with you to determine whether it’s a good option for your pet.

To learn more about pet acupuncture services at Falconbridge Animal Hospital and schedule your pet’s consultation with Dr. Burkholder, please call us today!