Acupuncture for Dogs & Cats

All types of pets, including exotic animals, may suffer from pain, inflammation, nerve damage, and chronic discomfort related to injuries or illnesses. Fortunately, many of the same non-invasive, drug-free therapies that work on humans also work on animals. Our veterinary team here at Deer Park Pet Hospital employs such treatment modality: acupuncture. Our team will be happy to answer any of your questions about this procedure. Contact us today at 403-342-5200.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture can be defined as a natural form of pain relief. Some of the earliest records of acupuncture mention its use on animals such as horses. This technique is based on the Traditional Chinese Medicine principle that the life force, Qi, runs through the body via passages called meridians. Healers would place acupuncture needles just beneath the skin at key points along these meridians to reroute and correct problems with this flow, relieving pain and disease. Many modern Western practitioners believe the needles stimulate nerve pathways and trigger the production of painkilling hormones called endorphins.

What can acupuncture do for my dog or cat?

• Stimulate the release of the body's own pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory substances.
• Relaxation of muscles at the site of needle insertion and more distant locations of the body is achieved, creating both a local and generalized pain-relieving effect.
• Improves tissue blood flow, oxygenation, and removal of metabolic wastes and toxins.
• Unlike prescription and over-the-counter pain medications, acupuncture lacks potential adverse side effects for your pet's internal organs.
• Your pet's medications or supplements will not adversely interact with acupuncture treatment; therefore, it can safely be used to treat a variety of illnesses.

What to expect from these treatment sessions?

Animals tolerate acupuncture with ease. This treatment method does not require shaving or other preparations. Acupuncture causes little to no discomfort, despite the presence of needles. However, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the best results over time.