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Dog receiving acupuncture

Veterinary Acupuncture

Dog with acupuncture

What is Veterinary Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points of the body to produce a healing response. Each acupuncture point has specific actions when stimulated. Acupuncture is used all around the world for humans and animals, along with or in conjunction with Western medicine. It is used to treat or help manage a wide variety of conditions in every animal species. Acupuncture is one of the safest forms of medical treatment for animals when it is administered by a properly trained veterinarian.

Acupuncture can assist the body in healing itself by affecting certain physiological changes. For example, it can stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms, and cause the release of hormones, such as endorphins (one of the body’s pain control chemicals) and cortisol (a natural steroid).

Common conditions that can be managed with acupuncture:

  • Musculoskeletal problems

  • Respiratory problems

  • Gastrointestinal problems

Will acupuncture hurt my pet?

For most small animals, the insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless and will not cause them any pain or discomfort.

How long to acupuncture treatments last and how often are they given?

The length and frequency of acupuncture treatments depend on the condition of each patient. As a general guide, most patients often start with 1 treatment every 1-2 weeks, for 6-8 treatments, and then can be maintained with as few as 2-4 treatments per year or as many as one per week. Each pet is unique.