Acupuncture is based on the concept of qi which loosely translates to “energy”.  In both humans and animals, the qi or energy affects how well the body functions overall.

Acupuncture needles are inserted into the body at specific locations along the meridians of energy.  The needles stimulate the sensory nerve endings and send impulses up through the spinal cord to various parts of the brain.  By stimulating these points, normal energy flow is restored and the body’s natural ability to heal itself is restored over time.

Acupuncture can put an animal’s energy back in balance regardless of the medical condition.  It can reduce pain, enhance the quality of life, and even extend life for cases where other treatments have failed.  Acupuncture can improve the function of the kidneys, restore hearing loss, treat acute as well as chronic disorders, treat anterior crucial problems, and also be used as preventative healthcare and maintenance.

• Pain relief – many veterinarians say it provides the best pain relief, especially for chronic conditions.
• Relief of musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis, disc disorders, lameness, and back problems.
• Neurological problems such as hindquarter weakness, partial paralysis, and epilepsy.
• Gastrointestinal disorders such as chronic vomiting and diarrhea.
• Enhances the immune system.
• Postponement of surgery in high risk cases by helping the body to gain strength.
• Postsurgical healing such as pain relief and restoration of motion.

For more information or to locate a veterinary acupuncturist in your area, see below:

American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association:  http://www.ahvma.org/

International Veterinary Acupuncture Society:  https://www.ivas.org/