Although acupuncture has been around for millennia, it's not a standard treatment that many think of when a dog suffers from chronic pain. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting tiny needles into pre-established spots in the body. Our western view reinforces this idea by placing these needles into areas with bundles of vessels or nerves to increase blood flow and decrease inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture for Dogs
While it is common for people to be skeptical of acupuncture's benefits, the practice has been widely studied and proven to provide real relief. At Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital, we have provided acupuncture for countless dogs to help regulate their pain levels and improve rehabilitation. But, even if the process does work, how do you know if it's the right fit for your dog? To help educate pet owners about this fantastic treatment option, we would like to answer some of the most common questions we have been asked about the process.
Will Acupuncture Impact My Dogs Wellbeing?
As a unique pain relief option, acupuncture treats the body as one interconnected unit. This means that even if a dog has problems with a single leg, the treatment will focus on more than just that leg. Traditionally, acupuncture has been used to treat a general area as well as any associated organs or bone systems within the body. With this in mind, pet owners can rest easy knowing that their dog will receive well-rounded care that helps maintain health and wellness.
Can Acupuncture Eliminate Medications?
At Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital, we believe in providing our patients with a well-rounded treatment plan. While this will often mean using medications, acupuncture and acupressure can often be a great supplement to manage chronic conditions. Acupuncture should be seen as complementary to Western medicine in most cases and will often help achieve results much faster. However, it should never be seen as a primary treatment without the guidance of an experienced veterinarian.
What Conditions Can Acupuncture Help?
Acupuncture for dogs is commonly leveraged when mobility issues are present. Although, it can also be used to help treat a wide variety of other conditions, including cancer, degenerative joint disease, nerve pain, dermatologic conditions, idiopathic epilepsy, gastrointestinal issues, trauma, hormonal disorders, metabolic conditions, and much more. If you are unsure if your dog is a great candidate for acupuncture, talk to your veterinarian to gain clarity.
