Acupuncture For Pets: FAQs Answered

Alpha Veterinary Center provides the most up-to-date veterinary technology as well as tried and true alternative therapy. One of our favorite treatment approaches provides a combination of the two. In recent years, acupuncture has become increasingly popular. This doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon! In this article, a local Alameda, CA vet provides some insight into this historic method.

Acupuncture: How Does It Work?

As you may be aware, acupuncture has been around for a long time. It has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. 

Western medicine regards acupuncture considerably differently than traditional Chinese medicine. As you may be aware, acupuncture needles are put into specific places on the body. In Chinese medicine, these locations are said to assist direct the flow of energy (Qi) throughout the body. In Western medicine, the view is more pragmatic: they serve as nerve centers.

Regardless of how one views the method, the needles cause some specific chemical reactions in the body. One impact is that the body produces natural endorphins, which help to alleviate pain. Other benefits include improved circulation, which aids in waste metabolism and enhances cell oxygenation. This then supports effective recovery.

What Are Acupuncture’s Benefits for Pets?

When evaluating various therapy choices for pets with medical conditions, it is critical to consider both the benefits and drawbacks. As long as you visit a licensed veterinarian, there are no drawbacks to consider.

Let’s look at the advantages:

No Medication Is Needed

Acupuncture treatments rarely require anesthesia and will not interact or contradict any medications your pet is currently receiving.

It Works

We wouldn’t offer acupuncture if we didn’t believe it. In fact, one study discovered that acupuncture, either used alone or in conjunction with other treatments to treat dogs with neurological and musculoskeletal illnesses, reduced pain and increased overall quality of life in dogs.

No Known Side Effects

One of the reasons we are proud of offering acupuncture is that there are no known negative effects. Of course, you must be careful to only see a licensed practitioner. 

Treatments Are Painless

Although having needles placed into your body sounds unpleasant, it is actually fairly painless. The needles are so fine that humans (and pets) barely feel them. Many pets fall asleep during their sessions!

Flexible Scheduling

Acupuncture appointments are usually rather brief. Most take less than half an hour. That means it’s rather simple to fit these trips into even the busiest schedule.

No Recovery Care

Acupuncture does not require medicines or incisions. Following their appointment, your pet will not require any recuperation time or extra care. Fido will probably take a few more sleeps, and he won’t mind a tasty treat or a new toy, but that’s about it.

It’s Versatile

Acupuncture complements current veterinary treatment, or rather, works hand in hand with it. It is frequently highly successful when used in conjunction with other treatments. For example, chemotherapy plus acupuncture may help a cancer-stricken pet.

It Can Help With Many Health Concerns

The most popular application in veterinary medicine is to treat dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia, but acupuncture can be used to address a variety of conditions. 

Here are some of the most common items it is used with:

• Asthma
• Dermatitis
• Epilepsy
• Nerve Injuries
• Degenerative Bone/Joint Conditions
• Respiratory Problems
• Arthritis
• Gastrointestinal Disease
• Pain Management Promotes Healing
• Skin Condition
• Neurological Disorder
• Cancer 
• Improved Digestive Function
• Hip Dysplasia
• Allergies 
• Contact Dermatitis
• Anxiety
• Musculoskeletal Disease
• Degenerative Disk Disease
• Seizures
• Vomiting
• Allergies
• Inflammation
• Metabolic Disorder
• Pain Relief
• Relaxing Muscle Trauma

If you believe that your canine companion could benefit from acupuncture, contact your veterinarian to learn more. It can’t hurt to inquire!

How Do I Know if Acupuncture Is Right for My Pet?

While acupuncture offers several fantastic benefits, it may not be the ideal solution for every pet. Our pet patients are all unique, and their veterinarian care options should reflect this. Ask your vet for more information.

Keep in mind that, because acupuncture treatments are so diverse and personalized, there is no set rule for how many appointments a pet will require. Your veterinarian may also change the recommended regimen over time, depending on your pet’s health, diagnosis, and recovery. This will continue until the greatest benefits have been realized.

What Should I Expect Following My Pet’s Appointment?

Your beloved pet will not require any aftercare. Don’t be surprised if your pet acts stiff at first. That is entirely normal and should subside after a day or so. It is not uncommon for individuals to see results within a few days of a pet’s first treatment. Acupuncture’s effects, like those of many other forms of alternative medicine, are typically cumulative. 

Make An Appointment With Our Alameda, Ca Veterinary Clinic

Are you interested in learning more about acupuncture for pets? Do you believe your pet will benefit? Please give us a call at any time. As your Alameda, CA pet clinic, we are always willing to assist.