Acupuncture For Dogs

Written by Karen | 04 November 2010

Acupuncture is an ancient system of treatment for acute or chronic  disorders in human or animal, it activates the self-healing mechanism of the body by unblocking the flow of energy that is causing the sickness.

Acupuncture is an art and a science, based on natural laws and principles, promoting a gentle, safe way of healing without side effects.

The procedure is to insert fine hair like needles at meridian points in the body to stimulate the flow of energy along the channels of healing. There are different shape needles, angles of insertion, and methods of insertion depending on treatment of ailment. There is also a treatment using hand pressure known as acupressure that follows the same method without needles.

These are the two oldest methods of healing known, the writing of “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of internal Medicine” somewhere around third century BCE documented the nature and practice of acupuncture. Needles and tools have been discovered for use on large animals and people dating from around that era.

Canine Acupuncture:

Acupuncture is becoming increasing popular for use on canines with:

• hip dysplasia
• spinal and disc problems
• arthritis
• lameness
• nerve deafness
• dermatitis
• behavioral problems
  

There have also been high success rates for:

• pain
• chronic digestive disturbances
• nerve injuries
• lick granulomas
• epilepsy
• chronic respiratory diseases
• allergies
• distemper

It is not recommended for cancer because it increases blood flow and may stimulate the disease.

Acupuncture is a very safe form of treatment, no chemicals, nothing ingested, and as with all natural treatments they are gentle and may take a few visits to the vet before you see results.

Treatments can last 10 seconds to 30 minutes in the office 1-3 times a week. A response is usually seen within 4-6 weeks, but depending on the problem being treated, it could be earlier.

Below are links to acupuncture sites where there will be more information and you can search for a veterinary practitioner in your state.

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF VETERINARY ACUPUNCTURE – Acupuncturist Search

VETERINARY ACUPUNCTURE – History and Information

VETERINARY ACUPUNCTURE FOR DOGS – History and more Information

DOG OWNER’S GUIDE: CANINE ACUPUNCTURE – Intro to acupuncture and what a treatment is like.

A Note On Alternative Therapies

Mixing herb, aromatherapy, homeopathy, and/or any medication on your own may cause problems for your pet. Always tell your vet what your pet is taking and/or what alternative therapies you are using to avoid unpleasant interactions.

Keep in mind when using alternative products and services, the treatments are gentle to the dog's body and can take up to several months to see results.

Please be aware of what you give your pet; the herbal, aromatherapy, homeopathy products I carry have been around for awhile and are safe... but there are herbs, aromatherapy oils, and homeopathic products that can be toxic to your pet if not given properly(and in some cases, at all).