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For most problems facing a sick or injured pet, there are usually various ways to treat them. Without a doubt, veterinary medicine has come a very long way in the recent past. However, one of the most effective treatments is, perhaps not surprisingly, one of the oldest modalities for people and pets alike – acupuncture! 

Acupuncture is not new to the western world, and yet, employing it on sick or injured pets is relatively novel in the U.S. If you’ve ever wondered about the numerous benefits associated with pet acupuncture, we are here to help you.

What a Wonderful World

Acupuncture has an extensive track record for it’s positive impact on people, but it’s application on various animals is just as long. Livestock, elephants, monkeys, and war horses were commonly treated centuries ago throughout India and China. 

Viewed as a complementary modality, pet acupuncture is applied in tandem with other treatments for pain and chronic diseases, such as massage, herbs and supplements, laser therapy, medication, surgery, and more. 

Effective & Non-Invasive

Pet acupuncture is one of the safest forms of veterinary medicine when it is administered by a highly trained and experienced veterinarian. Successful treatments are directly related to the practitioner’s skills.

After a complete exam and evaluation we may look at bloodwork and other diagnostics to assess a pet’s whole body picture before recommending acupuncture. 

The Scope

Some ailments can be treated by pet acupuncture in one visit, but the majority of issues are effectively treated over time with several appointments. Typically, pets show improvement after an average of 4 sessions.

The entire body is seen as a complete system with its own energetic flow. When small, super-thin needles are inserted just beneath the surface of the skin, the nervous system reacts by releasing endorphins. The gentle pressure of the needles helps to release neurotransmitters that reduce pain and inflammation, and boost the healing process.

Do They Feel It?

We do our best to stabilize pets and keep them calm and still. Most pets don’t display any signs of discomfort or pain. In fact, over the course of a pet acupuncture appointment, they slow down and relax. Some even fall asleep during their treatment!

Pet Acupuncture

Behavioral disorders, such as anxiety, can be effectively treated with acupuncture, but urine marking or excessive grooming can also be addressed. 

Disorders of the musculoskeletal, dermatologic, gastrointestinal, neurological, reproductive, and pulmonary systems benefit from pet acupuncture, as well as any of the following:

• Post-surgical pain
• Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
• Back and spinal injuries
• Intervertebral disc disease
• Epilepsy
• Asthma
• Nausea
• Allergies
• Allergic dermatitis and other skin diseases
• Kidney and liver diseases
• Cancer-related illnesses

Because you want the very best for your best friend, pet acupuncture may be the next step toward supporting the whole body health. We’re proud to offer this holistic option for our clients, let us know if you have any questions or concerns – please contact us at All Creatures Veterinary Hospital.