HOLISTIC MEDICINE

Acupuncture: The art of acupuncture has been practiced for centuries and dates back to ancient China. It is based on a series of acupuncture points located on meridians. The basic principle behind acupuncture is that illness occurs when there is a blockage of Qi (or energy) and that by returning balance to the body, the body will heal itself. Scientific study has established that many of the canine and feline acupuncture points are located on/over nerve and blood vessel bundles. The stimulation of these points elicits a response within the body, causing the release of endorphins and hormones.

While Western (or conventional) veterinary medicine is based on relieving symptoms, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture focuses on identlfying and eliminating the root cause of a condition, thereby alleviating symptoms. Additionally, while Western medicine works best for addressing acute (sudden onset) illness or injury, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine is best used for the treatment of chronic (long-term) conditions.

Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very small and the majority of animals exhibit no discomfort during the placement of the needles.

What conditions can be treated by acupuncture?
The most common condition treated with acupuncture is chronic pain, such as arthritis. The placement of the needles in specific points stimulates the nerves and releases endorphins. This process is very successful in breaking the “wind-up” cycle and decreasing/eliminating pain. Other common diseases treated with acupuncture include: allergies, incontinence, neurologic injury (including intervertebral disc disease), seizures, and intestinal disease. Acupuncture, in conjunction with herbals, is also successful in alleviating the side effects of cancer and chemotherapy.

What should I expect if I make an acupuncture appointment?
An initial appointment is typically allotted an hour time slot. During this appointment, we take a thorough history and complete physical exam on your pet prior to performing the actual acupuncture session. Subsequent acupuncture sessions usually take 40 minutes.

Chinese/Herbal Medicines: Herbals are the perfect adjunct to acupuncture. Often by adding herbals suited to your pet’s condition, the results are more dramatic and longer-lasting—allowing the acupuncture sessions to be scheduled less frequently. Herbal medicines come in a variety of formulas: powders, capsules, tea pills and some even come in biscuit form. We recommend quarterly recheck exams for animals taking herbals, in order to evaluate any change in condition and determine appropriate dosing.