Pet acupuncture is a safe and less invasive option for pain relief and care. Our veterinarians in Ketchum provide insights into the benefits and process.
Pet Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)
Acupuncture, originating from China, has been used for centuries to alleviate bodily pain and various illnesses in humans. In modern times, veterinarians are now being trained in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) so they can offer acupuncture treatment to animals, mirroring the benefits it offers to humans.
The primary goal of acupuncture for pets is to manage and treat the symptoms of illnesses. During the procedure, ultra-thin needles are inserted into specific points on the animal's body where nerves and blood vessels intersect. TCVM can be combined with traditional veterinary care to provide a comprehensive approach to treating animals.
Pets of any age, ranging from puppies and kittens to adult and senior pets, can undergo acupuncture treatment to alleviate the pain or discomfort associated with injury or illness. Acupuncture for cats and dogs is considered a safe and effective therapy that can relieve pain or discomfort related to many health conditions.
What Happens During A Pet Acupuncture Treatment Session?
Acupuncture treatment for pets involves identifying the source of their pain before starting the procedure. The veterinarian must diagnose the underlying cause of their symptoms first to tailor the treatment to address their specific health issues.
The primary goal of pet acupuncture is to help the animal's body heal itself by restoring the balance of energy, also known as "chi." To achieve this, the veterinarian inserts one or more fine needles into specific points on the animal's body where blood vessels and nerves intersect. This process is almost painless and stimulates the release of endorphins, which help relieve persistent pain.
Furthermore, it is believed that the acupuncture process has a positive effect on the mental health of pets. It promotes the release of serotonin, which can help reduce anxiety levels and generate a sense of happiness.
What Are The Benefits of Acupuncture For Pets?
The benefits of veterinary acupuncture include:
- Stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory substances.
- There are no negative side effects on internal organs, as can occur with some prescription medications.
- Acupuncture is safe for animals undergoing conventional treatments, as it has no adverse interactions with other medications or supplements.
- Acupuncture treatments are believed to create high blood flow, increased oxygenation, and improved metabolic and toxic waste removal.
- Localized pain relief may be achieved at the site of needle insertion due to the relaxation of the muscles in that area.
What Conditions Can Pet Acupuncture Help Treat?
Veterinary acupuncture can be used to help treat a range of health issues involving inflammation or chronic pain, including:
- Metabolic Diseases. Acupuncture is thought to aid in managing metabolic disorders by regulating your pet's endocrine system. This therapy also enhances digestion and relieves oxidative stress. The treatment aims to improve blood flow to the tissues, thereby increasing oxygenation and eliminating toxins and metabolic waste.
- Arthritis. Arthritis in pets causes pain and discomfort, which can be alleviated by acupuncture. This is because acupuncture releases endorphins that help reduce pain. Sometimes, acupuncture can even reduce the need for traditional pain medications. Pets who cannot tolerate standard pain medications can also benefit from acupuncture for pain relief.
- Degenerative Joint Disease. Joint disease is common in pets and can seriously impact your pet's quality of life. Acupuncture aims to decrease the pain and tension associated with joint issues, making movement more accessible for your cat or dog.
- Cancer. When used as a cancer treatment for pets, veterinary acupuncture aims to stimulate blood flow and support the immune system. The goal is to improve the body's natural ability to heal itself. Additionally, animal acupuncture can relieve the side effects of conventional cancer treatments.
- Trauma. If your pet has suffered from an injury or trauma, such as an accident, fall, or fight, it may lead to inflammation and pain. However, acupuncture and other traditional Chinese veterinary medicines can effectively treat these symptoms and aid in the recovery process, helping your pet to return to good health.
Pet Acupuncture Cost
The cost of pet acupuncture may vary based on several factors like the location, experience of the veterinary acupuncturist or TCVM specialist, and the condition being treated.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost of acupuncture treatments for your pet, you can speak to the staff at your veterinary clinic. Veterinarians are usually happy to provide their clients with an estimate of treatment costs.
Pet owners often consider these treatments to be a valuable investment in their pet's health and well-being. Some pet insurance plans may cover acupuncture.
Therefore, it is advisable to check your pet's policy before scheduling treatments to avoid any surprises. Pet acupuncture is frequently used as a complementary treatment alongside traditional veterinary care.
Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine if acupuncture is a suitable option for their furry family member.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.