Acupuncture / Herbal Therapy

Pet Acupuncture Services

Acupuncture is surprisingly well tolerated by most pets. Although the needle insertion may be slightly uncomfortable, most animals relax once all the needles are in place. Acupuncture increases circulation to release neurotransmitters and neurohormones (such as endorphins) to improve the body’s defense system, relieve muscle spasms, and stimulate nerves and blood flow. This modality can help manage pain and boost healing.

Canine Acupuncture

Acupuncture for dogs is becoming quite common. This technique has been used for thousands of years in China for both the treatment of illnesses and injuries as well as for the prevention of disease. Research in humans and animals has shown that acupuncture can yield positive results. Although acupuncture may not cure every condition, it can work well and serve as a supportive modality in almost every condition.

For acute ailments like an injury or surgery, a minimum of three to five acupuncture sessions are recommended for your pet to determine if acupuncture can make a substantial impact. If the condition is more chronic, a regular schedule of every 2-4 weeks may be recommended. We will work with you to plan an acupuncture regimen that best suits your pet’s needs. If you would like to learn more about acupuncture treatment for your pet, give us a call.

Chinese Herbal Medicine For Pets

Herbal medicines have been used in China for at least 2500 years. There are 5,767 medicinal substances currently in use. These substances are occasionally used singularly, but more often they are used in time-tested combinations or blends. The benefit to herbal blends is these substances are often combined in a way that best balances any property of the individual substance to avoid side effects that could be experienced if one of the substances was used alone. Many of these formulas have been around for hundreds or thousands of years and used by millions of people, far more history and use than any modern medication that is used in Western medicine. Therefore, blending herbals with a traditional Western treatment plan can offer some balance to the overall treatment strategy and potentially result in better outcomes than Western therapy alone. Although herb and drug interactions can occur, they are very uncommon. We can help create and evaluate an integrated plan for your pet that you feel comfortable about.