Acupuncture for Pets

Here at Cherry Hill Dog & Cat Hospital, we provide cutting-edge veterinary technology as well as tried-and-true alternative therapy. One of our favorite treatment choices provides a combination of both. Acupuncture has become increasingly popular in recent years. This does not look to be changing anytime soon. In this article, a local North East Maryland veterinarian discusses this historic method.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

As you may be aware, acupuncture has  been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia. Over the last century or two, it has also grown in popularity in Western medicine.

What’s fascinating is that Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine have quite different perspectives on acupuncture. As you may be aware, acupuncture needles are positioned into the body at certain locations. In Chinese medicine, these areas are regarded sort of as metaphysical breaker boxes. The theory is that these help direct the flow of energy (Qi) through the body. In Western medicine, the fundamental view and feature of those locations is that they are nerve centers.

Regardless of how one views the practice, the needles cause certain chemical reactions in the body. One impact is that the body produces natural endorphins, which help alleviate pain. Another benefit is improved circulation, which helps the body digest waste and enhances cell oxygenation. Overall, these things promote healing and good health.

What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture for Pets?

When considering different treatment choices for pets with medical conditions, it’s always vital to weigh the benefits and drawbacks. There are no drawbacks to consider in this instance, as long as you visit a licensed veterinarian. However, there is a pretty long list of positives.

Let’s look at the main ones:

• No Medications Required: This is a large one. Many people are hesitant to give their pets drugs, particularly if there is a risk of side effects or counteraction. Acupuncture treatments will not interact or counteract with any medications your pet is receiving.
• It works: While there is undoubtedly room for further research in this area, data appears to demonstrate that acupuncture is legit. In fact, one study discovered that acupuncture, either used alone or in combination with other treatments to treat dogs with neurological and musculoskeletal illnesses, reduced pain and increased overall quality of life.
• No known side effects: When deciding on a treatment plan for your pet, you should always consider the potential side effects. While contemporary medication is amazing in many ways and has greatly benefited our patients, certain medications do have adverse effects. One reason we all agree on offering acupuncture is that there are no known negative effects. In fact, the most serious possibility is that a needle would break, which is quite unusual. Of course, you should only see a licensed practitioner. Contact your veterinarian for further information.
• The treatments are painless: When considering various treatment choices for your pet, it is critical to evaluate his or her overall quality of life. Although having needles placed into your body may seem unpleasant, it is actually fairly painless. The needles are so fine that people (and pets) can scarcely feel them. In fact, many pets fall asleep during their appointments!
• Flexible Scheduling: Acupuncture appointments are usually quick. Most take less than a half hour. That implies that even if you have a busy schedule, you can fit these visits in.
• No After Care: Acupuncture does not require the use of medications, nor does it call for incisions. Your pet won’t require any recovery time or extra care following their appointment. (Fido will probably take a few more naps and would appreciate a tasty treat or a new toy, but that’s about it.)
• Custom Care: Acupuncture complements contemporary veterinary treatment. It can be quite successful when paired with other medications. For example, a pet with cancer may benefit from both treatment and acupuncture.
• It’s Versatile: Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of conditions. The most popular application in the field of veterinary medicine is to aid dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia. We adore seeing stiff, pained senior dogs become playful again! It can be used to treat asthma, dermatitis, epilepsy, nerve injuries, gastrointestinal issues, degenerative bone and joint conditions, respiratory problems, arthritis, gastrointestinal disease, pain management, skin condition, neurological disorder, cancer, digestive function, hip dysplasia, allergic contact dermatitis, anxiety, musculoskeletal disease, degenerative disc disease, seizures, vomiting, allergies, inflammation, metabolic disorder, pain relief, relaxing, muscle trauma, and more.

If you believe your dog could benefit from acupuncture, contact your veterinarian to learn more. It certainly won’t hurt to inquire!

How Do I Know If Acupuncture Is Suitable for My Pet?

While acupuncture offers many benefits, it may not be the ideal solution for every pet. Our furry patients are all unique, and their care should reflect that.

Keep in mind that because acupuncture treatments are so adaptable and adjustable, there is no set plan for how many appointments a pet will require. Your veterinarian may also change the prescribed regimen over time, depending on your pet’s health, diagnosis, and recuperation. This will continue until the maximum benefits are achieved. Then, the schedule may scale down.

How Can I Know If Acupuncture Is Safe?

As previously stated, there are no known negative effects of acupuncture. However, it is critical that you visit a registered and trained pet acupuncturist.

What Can I Expect After My Pet’s Appointment?

Don’t be surprised if your pet appears stiff at first. That is entirely normal and should fade away within a day or so.

It is not uncommon for people to notice results within a few days of their pet’s first treatment. Acupuncture’s effects, like those of many other forms of alternative medicine, are often cumulative. Your veterinarian will reevaluate the regimen on a regular basis and make necessary adjustments.

Conclusion: Acupuncture can help many pets relieve discomfort, improve joint mobility, and improve their general quality of life. The technique, which has been practiced for thousands of years in China, is increasingly popular in veterinary care.

Book An Appointment At Our North East Maryland Veterinary Clinic

Would you like to learn more about acupuncture for pets? Do you believe your pet could benefit? Please call us at any time. As your North East Maryland pet clinic, we are always eager to assist.