ACUPUNCTURE

Developed by the Chinese more than 4000 years ago, acupuncture uses tiny needles to stimulate the nervous system.  Acupuncture is based on the theory that blockages in the body’s systems result in imbalances causing disease and pain.   The needles stimulate blood flow, nerve conduction, relieve muscle spasm, and release hormones, like endorphins, to heal the body and alleviate pain.  Acupuncture is not a “cure-all”, but can work very well on it’s own, or when combined with traditional veterinary medicine. 

Acupuncture can be used to treat or augment treatment of a variety of conditions including:

·         Pain: acute, chronic, age-related, arthritis, hip dysplasia

·         Gastrointestinal disorders:  ibd, megacolon, vomiting, diarrhea

·         Respiratory problems: asthma

·         Dermatological problems:  allergies, ear infections, self-mutilation, lick granulomas                                    

·         Musculoskeletal disorders:  lameness, tendonitis, back pain, arthritis

·         Neurological problems:  intervertebral disk disease, paralysis, paresis, seizures

·         Behavior problems:  fear, anxiety, aggression

·         Urinary problems:  chronic cystitis, incontinence

When administered by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is extremely safe.  The single use needles are made of surgical grade stainless steel.  The needles are tiny and most animals tolerate them quite nicely.  With the release of the body’s biochemicals, some even fall asleep during the treatment.  The sessions can last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.  Acute conditions may respond to one treatment.  Chronic conditions will likely need more than one treatment, you should be ready to commit to at least 3 treatments to determine if acupuncture will help your pet.  Once the optimum response is achieved, the treatment interval is extended to the maximum amount of symptom free time elapses between treatments.

If you are wondering if your pet will benefit from acupuncture, please call us and schedule an appointment for an exam and consultation with Dr. Clark.  She will evaluate your pet and recommend a treatment plan, if appropriate.  We ask that you download the following forms, fill them out, and mail them to the clinic at least a week before your appointment.  Additionally, please send any x-rays and medical records from any other veterinarians who have seen your pet for this condition.  This planning will save you time at your first visit, and allow Dr. Clark time to review your pet’s records prior to your appointment.

Holistic Forms

If you would like more information about animal acupuncture, the following links may be helpful:

American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture

International Veterinary Acupuncture Society

American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association