Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body for the purpose of eliciting a healing response. This stimulation can be done with acupuncture needles, an electrostimulator or a medical laser.

By stimulating these acupuncture points there can be an alteration in some biochemical and physiologic conditions. These alterations can achieve the desired effect of bringing the body back into balance and allowing the body to help heal itself. Acupuncture can be effective in conditions such as arthritis, respiratory illnesses such as asthma, gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting/diarrhoea/poor appetite and other chronic conditions such as kidney disease, geriatric issues, or behavioural problems.

It is a means of the body helping to heal itself. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, disease is an imbalance of energy in the body. Acupuncture therapy is based on balancing the energy, correcting the flow of energy, and thereby healing your pet. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that involves stimulation of the body’s tissues at acu-points, which is where nerve bundles and blood vessels come together.

Acupuncture with needles is the traditional, most commonly used method. Traditional acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on your pets’s body. These needles enhance blood circulation, modify the nervous system, and release anti-inflammatory, feel-good pain-relieving hormones.
Laser acupuncture involves using a handheld device to direct a laser onto the acupuncture points. The laser pointer produces similar benefits of the traditional method, but because it is non-invasive, is usually tolerated well by very nervous or anxious patients.
There are no adverse effects from acupuncture, although some pets may be sensitive at certain points due to trigger points in the muscles or the correlated organ system being inflamed. However, most pets relax and enjoy the treatment as the body produces natural endorphins and provides natural pain relief that can last long after their session has ended!

It may take a few sessions, up to 3, to see initial results following acupuncture, however, this can vary from pet to pet, depending on their presenting complaint. Most pets will start with at least one session every 2-4 weeks. Our practitioner will advise the best course of treatment for your pet following their initial consultation in order to maintain consistent results.
Following a session some pets may feel energised, while others may feel a little sleepy, but unlike prescription medications, there are no adverse side-effects from acupuncture. It is valuable as a sole therapy or in conjunction with conventional or alternative medicines for a holistic approach.