Benefits of Acupuncture for Pets

More and more people are seeking alternative medicine for themselves, like acupuncture, so why not for your pet. Acupuncture is a natural, non-invasive therapy for a wide range of conditions afflicting pets and there are no side effects. When using holistic type treatments, it is the goal to promote the body to heal itself.
Acupuncture helps the body activate its own ability to heal. Veterinary acupuncture encourages healing by correcting energy imbalances in the body. Acupuncture enhances blood circulation, nervous system stimulation, and the release of anti-inflammatory and pain relieving hormones.
You may see some benefits or positive results from one treatment with acupuncture, but as a general rule the benefits of acupuncture are cumulative over a series of treatments. So I would consult with your vet as to how many treatments would be reasonable. With people, it is usually four to five treatments to be fully effective.
As with people, acupuncture isn’t appropriate or successful for every pet, condition, disease or situation. About 25 percent of patients have major improvement, up to the point of fully curing the condition.
About 50 percent of patients experience significant improvement, but with some symptoms remaining. The remaining 25 percent have no response to the treatment at all.
A partial list of conditions proven to respond to veterinary acupuncture includes:
Hip dysplasia, traumatic nerve injuries, degenerative joint disease, arthritis, allergic skin conditions, seizures/epilepsy, endocrine disorders, asthma, immune function, systemic inflammatory conditions, performance.
Costs for veterinary acupuncture vary from practice to practice, so it is best to have a consult as to the complexity of the problem and the amounts of treatments that will be needed. You can also discuss with your vet the success rate for acupuncture for what they are treating.
Make sure when looking for a vet, to find an acupuncturist who has received formal training, is licensed, has a track record of success with the procedure, and with whom you feel comfortable.
Vets that offer Acupuncture for Cats and Dogs:
Alder Creek Vet – Battle Ground, WA
(360) 687-3141
Dr. Jackie Tegarden
East Padden Vet – Vancouver, WA
(360) 892-1500
Dr. Linday Thurwachter
Dr. Venessa Hawkins
Dr. Sara Sheltren
Hawthorn Veterinary Clinic – Portland, OR
503.233.2332
Dr. Cornelia Wagner
Dr. Ingrid Hamman