Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points along meridians or channels on the body to cause a desired healing effect. It’s use dates back some 3000 – 5000 years in China to treat a wide range of ailments. Today, veterinarians also use acupuncture to treat many ailments in animals. In small animal medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used for musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis, muscle pain, and intervertebral disc disease. It is also very helpful in many neurological diseases, including epilepsy. Respiratory disease, endocrine diseases, gastrointestinal problems, skin disease, liver and kidney disease may also benefit from acupuncture therapy. Truly there is no boundary to the possible uses of acupuncture.

Many people are concerned about whether acupuncture is painful to their animal. Acupuncture needles are a very fine gauge and usually are placed in the points with little if any discomfort. A typical treatment will last ten to twenty minutes and a great many patients get quite relaxed or even sleepy during the time the needles are in place.

Acupuncture works by balancing energy (or Qi) in the body and thus aids in healing by correcting imbalances. Needles are placed in various points depending on the patient’s condition and presentation. In western terms, acupuncture is known to stimulate nerve endings, increase blood circulation and enhance the release of endorphins and cortisol (a natural steroid produced in the body). Regardless of how one looks at the use of acupuncture, whether it’s from an eastern or western perspective, there is little doubt about its effectiveness. Acupuncture, of course, is not a cure all, but can work wonders in many cases.

The treatment regimen of acupuncture in animals will vary from case to case - much depends on the animal, the seriousness of the condition, the chronicity of the problem and the methodology used. Some acute conditions may be resolved with one or two treatments, whereas chronic conditions may require many treatments until a response is noted. This is especially true in chronic arthritis cases. Once the animal responds, maintenance treatments are done as needed, which may often be only every 2 – 4 months.

Another aspect of acupuncture we offer is gold bead implants. Small gold beads are implanted in acupuncture points. The placement of these beads varies with the condition. The purpose of the beads is to have a chronic stimulation of the point and greatly reduce or even eliminate the need for further acupuncture treatments for that condition. The most common indications for gold bead implants are hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease and epilepsy.

At Gunbarrel Veterinary Clinic, it has been extremely rewarding to be able to offer acupuncture for our patients. It is successful a large percentage of the time. Acupuncture can often avoid the need for medications, it is well tolerated by the patient, and there are no adverse effects. We see a lot of side benefits relating to the pet’s energy levels and attitude.

If you have questions about acupuncture for your pet, please feel free to give us a call at (303) 530-2500.