Acupuncture is a treatment technique where metal needles are inserted into the patient at specific locations (acupuncture points) to treat and prevent disease.
It is being used successfully in conjunction with western veterinary medicine, especially when traditional methods have failed. Although used for thousands of years in China, its use is relatively new in this country.
Acupuncture is best known to relieve pain, but is also helpful to restore mobility in pets with osteoarthritis and spinal disease. Acupuncture is also utilized in treating conditions associated with a weak immune system such as allergies, infection, and cancer. Diseases such as feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency also respond well to its use. Acupuncture is also used to treat epilepsy, diabetes, pancreatitis, as well as liver and kidney disease.
To determine if acupuncture is appropriate for your pet, you pet’s condition should be thoroughly evaluated. Blood tests, radiographs (x-rays), or other laboratory tests are often required to determine if acupuncture is the best form of treatment.
Chronic pain relief requires a series of acupuncture treatments. Your pet may experience increased discomfort after the first treatment, but relief should become evident during the following weeks.
Approximately 75% of animals treated with acupuncture show significant improvement within or after the first series of treatments. Periodic treatments (usually every few months) are generally required after the first series of treatments to keep your pet comfortable.
Acupuncture does not necessarily cure a given disease. For instance, acupuncture does not cure arthritis, but rather diminishes the pain of arthritis
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Complimentary Medicine
Acupuncture
Complimentary
Medicine is the symbiosis of conventional medicine including
medications, vaccinations and surgery with holistic medicine which
incorporates a wide spectrum of treatments from ancient to more
modern. One of the oldest eastern practices is acupuncture which
is discussed in more detail on this page. Other modalities
include homeopathy, Chinese herbs, chiropracture, western herbs and so
much more.
This integration of eastern and western approaches allows veterinarians and pet owners alike to provide the best care for their dogs, cats and other critters. Natural therapies such as joint supplements, anti-oxidants, probiotics and digestive enzymes can be great complements to needed joint surgeries and medications for digestive tract disease for example.
The holistic remedies can help speed healing, reduce inflammation and prevent/treat side effects of certain medications such as diarrhea secondary to antibiotics. The awareness of such remedies has increased greatly over the past hew years which allow us to chose form a number of trusted companies providing supplements for our pets. Just ask our staff if you have an interest in learning more ahout such remedies or if you are wanting to incorporate holistic treatments for you pets ailments or develop a health pet program.