Acupuncture has been a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, offering significant benefits for pain relief and healing. Recently, this ancient practice has found its way into veterinary care, providing a natural and effective treatment option for our canine companions. If your dog is dealing with stiffness, pain, or chronic health issues, acupuncture in dogs might be the solution you’ve been searching for. In this article, discover how acupuncture can enhance your dog’s well-being, providing relief from various ailments without the side effects associated with conventional treatments.

Does your canine pal seem stiff and sore lately? Is Fido struggling with health issues? One thing that may help your furry friend is acupuncture. Acupuncture is relatively new in the world of veterinary medicine, but this ancient practice has certainly stood the test of time in human wellness care. Here, a Potomac, MD vet discusses the use of acupuncture in dogs.

Basics

As you may know, acupuncture originated in China. It is one of the basic pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The practice is based on the use of thin needles, which are inserted into the body at specific points. In Eastern medicine, these spots have traditionally been believed to control the flow of energy (Qi) through the body, much the way that circuits and wires move electricity through your home. Western medicine takes a more scientific approach, noting that these spots are actually nerve clusters. Either way, the needle insertions trigger the release of natural hormones, including painkillers. In turn, that helps promote good healing, relieve pain and stiffness, improve circulation, and increase oxygenation to cells.

Sessions

Acupuncture sessions are quite short, usually lasting between 20 minutes and an hour. There is no standard for how many sessions a pooch will need. It really just depends on Fido’s condition and results. Some of our patients only need a few sessions: others need ongoing treatment.

Uses

Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of issues in pets. Some of these include skin conditions; hormonal and metabolic conditions, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and kidney disease; gastrointestinal issues, including nausea and diarrhea; nerve pain; arthritis; degenerative joint disease; and intervertebral disc disease. It is also helpful in simply promoting good healing from trauma or injury, such as broken bones, bites, or other issues. For more comprehensive information on how arthritis affects dogs and how it can be managed, check out our article “Dog Arthritis 101.”

Benefits Of Acupuncture

Acupuncture has some truly wonderful benefits. One of the biggest ones—and this is a huge plus for many of our clients—is the fact that it is extremely safe. There are no known side effects. It’s also painless. While having needles inserted into you may not sound pleasant, these needles are too small to hurt. In fact, many pets visibly relax during their sessions. Acupuncture also works very well in conjunction with modern veterinary treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy. To learn more about how our Veterinary Acupuncture service can benefit your pet, ask your vet for more information.

The Science Behind Acupuncture in Dogs in 2024: How It Works and What to Expect

What is the scientific explanation for how acupuncture works in dogs?

Acupuncture in dogs works by stimulating specific points on the body, which are actually nerve clusters. When thin needles are inserted at these points, they trigger the release of natural hormones, including endorphins and painkillers. This response helps reduce pain, alleviate stiffness, and promote healing. Additionally, acupuncture improves circulation and increases oxygenation to cells, which further supports recovery and overall well-being. While rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine’s concept of energy flow, modern veterinary practice understands these effects through the lens of neurophysiology and hormone release.

How long does a typical acupuncture session last for dogs?

A typical acupuncture session for dogs lasts between 20 minutes and an hour. The duration can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and how the dog responds to the therapy. Some dogs may require only a few sessions, while others might need ongoing treatment. The process is designed to be safe and painless, often leading to visible relaxation in pets. Acupuncture works by stimulating nerve clusters, promoting natural pain relief, improving circulation, and supporting overall healing in dogs.

How many acupuncture sessions might a dog need?

The number of acupuncture sessions a dog might need varies depending on the individual dog’s condition and response to treatment. Sessions typically last between 20 minutes and an hour, and while some dogs may experience significant improvement after just a few sessions, others may require ongoing treatments to maintain results. The frequency and duration of these sessions are tailored to the specific health issues being addressed, such as arthritis, nerve pain, or skin conditions. Consultation with a veterinarian can help determine the most effective treatment plan for your pet.

Are there any side effects or risks associated with acupuncture for dogs?

Acupuncture for dogs is considered extremely safe with no known side effects. The procedure is painless due to the use of very thin needles, and many dogs even find it relaxing. Unlike some treatments, acupuncture doesn’t involve the use of drugs or chemicals, which eliminates the risk of adverse reactions. It’s also highly compatible with other veterinary treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy. Given its safety profile and lack of side effects, acupuncture can be a beneficial option for dogs suffering from various health issues, promoting natural healing and pain relief.

What qualifications should a veterinary acupuncturist have?

A veterinary acupuncturist should be a licensed veterinarian with specialized training in acupuncture. This training typically involves completing a certified program recognized by veterinary acupuncture organizations, such as the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) or the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA). The acupuncturist should be knowledgeable in both Western and Eastern medicine principles, understanding the specific points on an animal’s body that correspond to nerve clusters and energy pathways. Additionally, the practitioner should have experience in safely and effectively administering treatments tailored to the individual needs of each animal.

Do you have questions about acupuncture for dogs? Contact us, your local Germantown, MD animal clinic, today!