Acupuncture

     Acupuncture is the insertion of small needles into specific points on the body to cause a desired healing effect. This technique has been used in veterinary practice for at least 3000 years to treat many ailments. Acupuncture is also used as preventative treatment against various acute and chronic conditions in animals. The American Veterinary Medical Association considers veterinary acupuncture a valid modality within the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery. Used either by itself or in conjunction with Western medicine, veterinary acupuncture can assist the body to heal itself by affecting certain physiological changes which include improved circulation, release of neurochemicals (such as endorphins and serotonin), relief of muscle spasms, anti-inflammatory action, immune support and ultimately restore balance to the body.

Consider small animal acupuncture for:  

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea (acute and chronic), vomiting, decreased appetite, inflammatory bowel disease, megacolon, constipation.  

Musculoskeletal: Arthritis, TMJ, hip dysplasia, sacroiliac disorders, back pain, muscle tension/spasms, lameness, postoperative orthopedic surgery, oral pain and dental procedures.  

Neurologic: Intervertebral disc disease, epilepsy/seizures, paralysis, nerve injuries, postoperative disc surgery.  

Respiratory: Asthma/bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, nose bleeds.  

Skin: Lick granulomas, slow or non-healing wounds, allergies.  

Urinary: Incontinence, urine retention, feline lower urinary tract disease, chronic renal failure.

Most animals will feel the needles but do not seem to feel pain associated with treatment. Although rare, side effects can include:  

• Bleeding or bruising
• Anxiety
• Skin reaction