Modern updates to the ancient healing system of acupuncture are more and more proving to be effective rehab for pets. Valley Animal Rehabilitation in Montclair and Clifton, NJ, list the facts about pet acupuncture.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture uses hair-thin needles inserted into specific places called meridians on a pet’s body. The needles are then moved by hand or hooked up to a device to deliver very low dosages of electricity. Sometimes, acupuncture for pets is called electroacupuncture when this device is used.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
The needles and their stimulation encourage the body to release chemicals to speed healing, lessen pain, reduce inflammation and cause relaxation. These chemicals include endorphins, norepinephrine and enkephalin.
How Do Pets React to Acupuncture Needles?
Most pets don’t seem to mind the needles. In fact, many become so relaxed that they fall asleep. For pets that do mind needles, have sore places where needles cannot reach or cannot risk having needles because of health conditions, they may benefit from a similar practice called acupressure.
What Medical Conditions Does Acupuncture Help?
Pet acupuncture and acupressure help with many chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, Cushing’s disease, degenerative joint disease, lick granulomas or “hot spots,” and asthma. They can also help with recovery from injuries and some surgeries. Pets on chemotherapy often get incredibly nauseated from their treatments. Acupuncture helps reduce nausea in pets during chemotherapy.
Does Pet Acupuncture Replace Conventional Veterinary Treatments?
Acupuncture is not meant to completely replace other veterinary treatments like medication or chemotherapy. However, it can make some medical conditions easier for a pet to bear and increase your pet’s quality of life.
What Are the Side Effects of Acupuncture?
There are very few side effects from acupuncture, making it easy to fit into a pet’s health or rehabilitation plan. There may be soreness, mild bleeding or bruising at the places where the needles were inserted. Sometimes, pets may be sleepier than usual for one or two days after treatment.
Still Have Questions?
If you have further questions on how acupuncture could benefit your pet and live in the Montclair and Clifton, NJ, areas, contact Valley Animal Rehabilitation at (973) 509-5225 to make an appointment today.