The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture is a popular and effective holistic treatment now commonly used to help pets as well as people. Our team at Creature Comforts Veterinary Service is proud to complement traditional veterinary medicine with holistic treatment options, and to provide individualized, exceptional treatment for your pet. And, we mean all pets—at your next visit, ask to see pictures of us treating a bearded dragon with acupuncture. We answer all your acupuncture questions to help you make the best choices for your pet.  

Question: How does pet acupuncture work?

Answer: Acupuncture promotes body healing through stimulation of targeted body points that our veterinarian determines based on your pet’s condition. Acupuncture involves inserting needles into the body tissue at points where nerve bundles and blood vessels come together, such as muscles, tendons, fascia, and nerve fibers. The needles stimulate the nerves, increase blood circulation, relax the muscles, and cause the release of the body’s pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory hormones, such as endorphins and cortisol, to produce a healing response. Endorphins are a type of pain-controlling chemical, and cortisol is a natural steroid. Other types of veterinary acupuncture include:

  • Acupressure — Acupressure is a form of massage where pressure is applied to targeted body points, similar to acupuncture, but without the use of needles. 
  • Laser energy — Laser, which is an acronym for “light amplification of stimulated emission of radiation,” uses low-intensity, non-thermal irradiation instead of needles to stimulate the acupuncture points.
  • Electrostimulation — Electrostimulation involves applying an electric current to stimulate muscles and provoke contraction, and may be beneficial for repairing nerve damage.

Q: What pet conditions can be treated with acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture stimulates healing and can be used to treat inflammation and pain, including  the following conditions:

  • Arthritis
  • Degenerative joint disease 
  • Allergic dermatitis
  • Muscle sprains and strains
  • Asthma
  • Ear infections
  • Cancer side effects
  • Traumatic nerve injury
  • Ocular conditions
  • Reproductive issues
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Skin conditions
  • Epilepsy
  • Lick granulomas

Acupuncture can also be an effective alternative to chronic medication or to surgery, and can be used post-surgery to improve a pet’s overall comfort and shorten the recovery period. 

Q: Is acupuncture safe for my pet?

A: Acupuncture for pets is safe and virtually painless when performed by a trained veterinarian acupuncturist. At Creature Comfort Veterinary Service, acupuncture is provided by two Chi Institute-certified veterinarians, and we pride ourselves in the quality of our continuing education for our veterinarians and staff. Acupuncture does not have adverse interactions with other medications or supplements, making the treatment safe for a wide range of conditions.

Q: What can I expect during an acupuncture session?

A: During an acupuncture session, one of our highly trained veterinary acupuncturists will slowly insert thin, sterile needles into specific areas of your pet’s body, which may cause some sensations, such as tingles, cramps, or numbness, but is virtually painless for most pets. After the needles are inserted, pets typically become relaxed and sleepy. The location and depth of needle insertion, the stimulation type that the needles apply, and the duration of each session is based on your pet’s tolerance and condition. The needles stay in your pet for several minutes. An acupuncture session typically lasts from 15 minutes to an hour.

Q: How quickly will my pet improve?

A: After your pet’s acupuncture session, they may appear lethargic because of the physiological changes from the treatment. Some pets seem to feel worse for a day or two after treatment, but you will typically see positive improvement, including increased appetite and mobility, after a few days. 

Q: How often should my pet receive acupuncture?

A: The frequency of your pet’s acupuncture sessions will be recommended depending on their condition. Pets with an acute condition, such as a wound or laceration, generally require only a few treatments over a week or two. Chronic conditions will begin with more frequent treatments that will be tapered off, but some chronic problems, such as arthritis, may need ongoing treatment to alleviate pain.

We pride ourselves on being able to provide your pet with an individualized, multimodal treatment plan that can include holistic and traditional medicine. Contact our team at Creature Comforts Veterinary Service to learn more about how acupuncture can alleviate your pet’s pain and help them heal.