Acupuncture Consultation

Veterinary acupuncture for your pet can provide additional care for your loved one on top of proper medication and nutrition. Pet acupuncture is a treatment that is quickly catching on for pets due to its many benefits.

Acupuncture is one of the safest treatments available when performed by a certified veterinary acupuncturist. Here at WesternU Pet Health Center, your pet’s veterinary acupuncturist will perform a full physical exam, review medical records, and consider test results before implementing a treatment program.

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to effectively address ailments in both people and animals. Originating in China, acupuncture is a form of treatment where sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the body to produce a desired response. It can stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the body’s natural pain control.

Often we treat pets with just the sterile needles which is called ‘dry needling.’ However, some pets may benefit from electro-acupuncture. The needles are typically left in for 10 to 20 minutes.

Acupuncture can be used alone or in conjunction with other therapies and medications.  In some instances, it may decrease the amount of medication that a pet needs to take.  The goals of acupuncture treatments are to restore balance in the body and improve the quality of life of the patient, not necessarily to bring about a cure.  Therefore, during any session, the approach is to determine where the imbalances are and then formulate a plan to help restore the balance through acupuncture (and possibly herbs or food therapy).

You may be surprised to know that most pets tolerate acupuncture really well and in fact find it very calming and relaxing! At WesternU Pet Health Center, our veterinarian’s knowledge and expertise allows them to treat pets with diseases such as hind limb weakness or paralysis, cancer, severe arthritis, behavioral issues, and more. To understand how this treatment can provide relief for your pet and for further information about what to expect, please contact us and we will gladly answer any questions you may have.