Veterinary Acupuncture for Healing & Recovery Support
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is used as a way to promote the healing process for pets by renewing the balance of energy throughout their body.
This ancient form of medicine is based on the philosophy that illness is caused by an imbalance of vital energies in the body. In modern terms, acupuncture can help oxygenate tissue by improving blood flow.
At Lafayette Companion Animal Hospital, we feel that we can obtain the best results by using veterinary acupuncture in addition to medical therapy to help restore your pet's health and vitality.
The Veterinary Acupuncture Technique
Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into an animal's body at precise points called meridians, where the blood vessels converge with the nerves. The needles help guide vital energy along these meridians, promoting circulation and supporting the nervous system while enhancing the body's natural healing process.
Common Veterinary Acupuncture Uses
Our vets often recommend the use of acupuncture or other types of Chinese medicine for a number of issues, including:
- Pain Management
Medical treatments such as chemotherapy can feel very uncomfortable for your pet. They will pair it with acupuncture in an effort to relieve some discomfort, helping your cat or dog to fight their illness.
- Musculoskeletal Issues
Acupuncture can often be used for injury rehabilitation. Conditions such as arthritis, nerve injuries and hip dysplasia also tend to respond well to acupuncture.
- Dermatology & Skin Issues
Acupuncture treatment can help encourage increased circulation, which can help hot spots, granulomas and allergic dermatitis. It has been associated with healing and reducing pain, leading to less itching and subsequent over-grooming.
- Gastrointestinal Issues
Acupuncture may stimulate digestive secretions, which helps to promote healthy digestive activity. Increased blood flow provides benefits for conditions such as diarrhea or nausea.
- Respiratory Issues
The immune-calming and anti-inflammatory capabilities of acupuncture treatment can improve asthma, allergies and other conditions.
The Benefits
Acupuncture for pets provides a number of benefits, including:
- Helps relax muscles and relieve pain
- Improves metabolic waste removal from the body
- Lowers the amount of waste products produced
- Pets in poor health will benefit from the lack of systemic side effects
- Promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues