The ancient art of acupuncture involves inserting small needles into specific skin points. The idea is to stimulate a healing response in that area. Pain and inflammation are reduced as a result. Isn’t it great that something as safe and effective as acupuncture can also be useful to help our canine friends feel better?
Conditions That May Be Improved by Acupuncture for Dogs
Combining the ancient technique of acupuncture with the advancements of Western medicine can seriously help several different medical conditions in dogs. Here are several different medical issues in dogs that can be helped with the introduction of acupuncture therapy.
The most common reason that pet parents seek out acupuncture for their dogs is that their dogs suffer from chronic pain and loss of mobility.
Dogs experiencing back issues such as nerve pain, a bulging disc, or spinal arthritis may find relief through receiving acupuncture.
If a dog is going to be having surgery, he may feel anxious and could also be in pain. When it’s time to go back to the vet, the situation could get worse. Allowing the dog to receive acupuncture will help the dog relax better throughout each transition.
When a dog has cancer, acupuncture can be helpful in boosting energy, reducing nausea, and relieving pain that often accompanies cancer treatments.
Dogs that have metabolic or hormonal conditions may find balance through receiving acupuncture.
When a dog constantly licks or bites itself, acupuncture may be a helpful remedy. It may also help a dog with allergic dermatitis.
What to Expect During a Canine Acupuncture Visit
The veterinarian who practices acupuncture will likely begin the session by asking you a series of questions about your dog’s health. After conducting a thorough physical exam, the vet may provide additional therapy recommendations they have for your dog, such as massage.
Your dog’s first acupuncture visit may take about an hour, whereas follow-up visits average anywhere from 20-45 minutes. You can stay with your dog during his or her acupuncture session unless you don’t care to.
You will see the vet insert very thin needles in specific areas of your dog’s body. Most dogs don’t even notice or feel what is going on. Many times, dogs fall asleep during an acupuncture session, as acupuncture is known to make both people and dogs relaxed. When you stay relaxed, it will help your dog to stay that way as well.
Getting Started With Acupuncture for Dogs
It is always wise to know you are dealing with professionals, mainly when it concerns those that we love. If your dog has osteoarthritis for instance, and you want to try out acupuncture for your dog, search for a vet that is certified in veterinary acupuncture.
Selecting a vet with these credentials is helpful because their training in veterinary acupuncture is integrated into their knowledge of Western medicine. Not sure where to begin? Search for certified veterinary acupuncturists on the website of The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, or aava.org.
