While many people are familiar with acupuncture for humans, fewer are aware that animals can receive this treatment as well. Most dogs and cats are quite comfortable with acupuncture needles and rarely is restraint or sedation needed. In fact, most patients are excited to come to the hospital and enjoy their treatments.
Acupuncture is a medical modality which stimulates the body’s own healing processes, including the relief of pain. Many patients find improvement from their ailments utilizing acupuncture either as the sole method of treatment or in conjunction with surgery and medication. An added benefit from acupuncture treatment is an enhancement of well-being and vitality.
Acupuncture is a kind and healthy way to provide comfort and well-being to your best friend.
The following list is given as a starting point for referring veterinary patients for acupuncture. It is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all the conditions where acupuncture can be effective.
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Mark Ahrens, January 2009
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Pain Management
- Post-operative
- back and neck surgery
- cruciate surgery
- fracture repair
- dental surgery
- arthritis
- hip dysplasia
- degenerative joint disease
- intervertebral disc disease (non-surgical)
Symptom control/Adjunctive treatment
- KCS
- nausea
- diarrhea
- constipation
- megaesophagus
- megacolon
- allergies
- asthma
- incontinence – fecal and urinary
- epilepsy
- lick granuloma
- ear infection
- bladder infection
- rhinitis/sinusitis
- fertility issues
Contraindications for Acupuncture in Animals
Acupuncture is not indicated for:
- severely debilitated animals
- sepsis
- severe bleeding disorders
Acupuncture should be avoided for:
- extremely frightened or aggressive animals
- fatigued or weakened animals
- right after eating a large meal
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