Acupuncture and Your Pet

Acupuncture is one the main branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Philosophy that has been used to help characterize, treat, and prevent disease in animals and people for over 3,000 years. Acupuncture involves the insertion of ultra-fine, single-use needles into specific points to help correct the body’s “imbalance” that often manifest in disease.

Research has found that stimulation of acupuncture points can cause endorphin release and changes to areas of connective tissue in between muscle planes and nerves.

Following a comprehensive evaluation of your pet’s history, behavioral and medical conditions, and physical exam, Dr. Ho, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, will create an acupuncture treatment plan while discussing adjunct therapeutics such as diet and at-home massage.

In certain conditions, electro-acupuncture (gentle electrical current), heat therapy, and aquapuncture (injectable vitamins) can provide even more effective, targeted, long-term benefits. When combined with diet modification, therapeutic massage, herbs, as well as with conventional medications and treatments, pets can experience decreased pain and an overall improved quality of life.

In dogs and cats, needle placement is painless and can be so relaxing pets may even fall asleep during or after receiving treatment. Aside from sedation, side effects are rare but you can expect a thorough discussion about expectations, goals, and your pet’s potential results prior to initiating treatment.

Acupuncture in pets is an extremely safe, non-invasive, and well- tolerated adjunct therapy. At Kindred Veterinary, we are proud to offer these specialized tools for a supportive, holistic approach to maintaining or achieving your pet’s best health.