Acupuncture for Dogs


In recent years, acupuncture has been gaining popularity as a safe and effective form of alternative medicine. This ancient form of Chinese medicine involves the insertion of tiny needles into specific acupuncture points throughout the body. Sometimes, gentle currents of electricity, herbs, or other medicines are used in conjunction with the needles. The treatment is often used to combat chronic pain in people, but it can be very beneficial for our furry friends, too.

You may think that inserting the needles will be painful for your pooch, but it turns out that most pets tolerate the treatments very well. Some even fall asleep during the treatment. When acupuncture is performed by a qualified technician, it is very safe, and complications are extremely rare.

What conditions can be treated with acupuncture for dogs?

Acupuncture has commonly been used for pain management and the treatment of anxiety in both humans and pets. Studies have shown that acupuncture can treat pain just as effectively as opiates, without all the dangerous and addictive side effects.  More recently, it has been discovered to be an effective treatment for skin issues, heart problems, liver and kidney disorders, and even malfunctions in the nervous system.

When should acupuncture treatments be started?

Acupuncture can successfully be used in conjunction with Western medicine. Treatments can be started at any time, but just like anything else, the sooner you start the treatments, the better your chances of success will be.

How do I find a veterinary acupuncturist?

The best way to find out if acupuncture can help your dog is to talk to a veterinary acupuncturist. Here are three websites that can help you find one near you:

If you are looking for a low-risk way to enhance your dog’s current treatment plan, acupuncture is definitely worth considering. It’s far safer than most pharmaceutical drugs, and recent studies have shown it to be just as effective, too.