Best known for its use on humans, acupuncture is an incredibly effective method for treating health conditions in dogs, cats, and small pets. Acupuncture is the process of inserting tiny needles into precise pressure points around the body to stimulate healing and provide pain relief. Surprisingly, many pet owners don’t know that alternative treatments such as acupuncture are commonly used on animals of all ages to treat both ailments and chronic conditions.
Acupuncture is quite beneficial as it can improve circulation, decrease inflammation, alleviate pain, and greatly improve the bond between you and your beloved pet. Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with medication or as an alternative treatment option to help alleviate your pet’s discomfort. At Hub City Veterinary Clinic, we recommend treating pets with acupuncture who are suffering from,
- Respiratory or gastrointestinal conditions such as asthma or diarrhea
- Musculoskeletal issues such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and nerve injuries
- Broken bones and sprains
Most pets are relaxed and will feel no pain when the tiny needles are inserted into their skin, and oftentimes, many of our furry patients become so relaxed they actually fall asleep during their acupuncture treatment! The number and length of your pet’s acupuncture sessions greatly depend on the severity of the health condition we are treating, but most sessions last for about 15-30 minutes.
The first few visits to our office can be scary and overwhelming for your pet, which is why we always recommend that you join your pet in the exam room and during treatment. Your calming presence will do wonders in ensuring your pet gets all the healing benefits acupuncture has to offer.
For more information on acupuncture for pets or to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (806) 701-5000.
