Veterinary Acupuncture for Healing & Recovery Support
Acupuncture is used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote the healing process in pets by renewing the balance of energy throughout their bodies.
This traditional medicine is based on the belief that illness is caused by an imbalance of vital energies in the body. Acupuncture can help in the modern sense by increasing blood flow, which increases oxygenation in tissues.
At Kleinpeter Veterinary Hospital, we believe that using acupuncture as a supplement to medical therapy can help restore your pet's health and vitality.
The Veterinary Acupuncture Technique
Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into an animal's body at specific points known as meridians, where blood vessels and nerves converge. The needles aid in the movement of vital energy along these meridians, thereby supporting the nervous system and promoting circulation while also enhancing the body's healing abilities.
Common Acupuncture Uses
Our acupuncture specialist, Dr. Courtney Beary, often recommends acupuncture for several issues, including:
- Pain Management
Chemotherapy and other medical treatments can be extremely painful for your pet. They are frequently used in conjunction with acupuncture to alleviate pain and assist your cat or dog in fighting their illness.
- Musculoskeletal Issues
Acupuncture is frequently used to treat injuries. Acupuncture can also help with conditions like arthritis, nerve injuries, and hip dysplasia.
- Dermatology & Skin Issues
Acupuncture treatment can improve circulation, which can help with hot spots, granulomas, and allergic dermatitis. It can also help with healing and pain relief, resulting in less itching and over-grooming.
- Gastrointestinal Issues
Acupuncture may stimulate digestive secretions, which aids in the promotion of healthy digestion. Increased blood flow may help with conditions like diarrhea or nausea.
- Respiratory Issues
Acupuncture treatment's immune-calming and anti-inflammatory properties can help with asthma, allergies, and other conditions.
The Benefits of Veterinary Acupuncture
Acupuncture for pets provides several benefits, including:
- Pets in poor health will benefit from the lack of systemic side effects
- Lowers the number of waste products produced
- Helps relax muscles and relieve pain
- Improves metabolic waste removal from the body
- Promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues
Acupuncture FAQ
Read through the most common questions our acupuncture specialist receives to better understand the acupuncture process.
- Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure. There have been few reports of negative side effects.
- How long does each treatment take?
Each session will last between 40 and 60 minutes. Because of the history taking and TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine) exam, the first session takes longer than follow-up appointments.
- How soon can I expect results?
This is dependent on the circumstances. Some results are visible right away, while others require multiple treatments.
Depending on the severity and chronicity of the condition, treatments can be done daily, weekly, monthly, or more frequently. Before noticeable improvement can be expected, a minimum of 3-5 treatments spaced 1-2 weeks apart is recommended.
- Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture is painless because acupoints are stimulated with needles that are almost as thin as hair. Acupuncture therapy is comfortable for more than 95% of patients. Due to the relaxing effect, many animals will fall asleep during treatment.
New Patients Welcome
Kleinpeter Veterinary Hospital is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of Baton Rouge companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.