Typically, we diagnose and treat the specific disease conditions of pets using modern science and other Western medicine philosophies. But, what if we could integrate different, more holistic approaches to help improve your pet’s health and well-being?
In traditional Chinese medicine, disease is believed to be caused by an imbalance or disharmony in the external forces (or life energy—“Qi”) at work on the body. By identifying these imbalances, a pet’s overall well-being can be restored.
With veterinary acupuncture, small needles are inserted into the skin at specific points where life energy is believed to flow. When stimulated, these different acupuncture points cause specific effects on the body.
Most pets feel no pain during the placement of the acupuncture needles because they are so small. In fact, many pets become relaxed during treatments and can even fall asleep.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has recognized veterinary acupuncture as a valid treatment modality. Veterinary acupuncture can be used to treat specific conditions, and to help prevent health problems from occurring. Through modern studies involving advanced imaging techniques, acupuncture’s physiological effects have been proven. And, since acupuncture does not involve medications that need to be metabolized, it can be safely performed in almost all pets, even those with liver and kidney disease.
The benefits of veterinary acupuncture
Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with other therapies to treat a variety of medical conditions, including:
- Nausea, decreased appetite, and other gastrointestinal problems caused by metabolic diseases and cancers
- Pain and inflammation due to degenerative joint disease, traumatic injuries, or intervertebral disc disease
- Skin conditions
- Respiratory problems associated with feline asthma
Pets who undergo acupuncture may experience:
- Decreased inflammation
- Improved circulation
- Pain relief due to a release of hormones
- Relief of muscle spasms
- Nerve stimulation
Potential side effects of veterinary acupuncture
After an acupuncture treatment, the physiological changes can cause your pet’s health condition to seem worse for up to 48 hours before improvement begins. And, some pets may experience drowsiness or lethargy for the first day after an acupuncture treatment.
Think your pet could benefit from acupuncture? Email or text us to learn more and schedule an appointment.