Acupuncture has been used in China to treat animals, and humans for thousands of years, and is now widely recognized as a valid modality by Western medicine as well.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body, causing a biochemical reaction within the tissue that stimulates healing and/or pain relief. Since Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that all disease and therefore pain results from an imbalance of energy in the body, acupuncture is often the primary form of treatment used to promote healing.
The potential benefits of acupuncture for your pet are numerous. It may increase circulation, stimulate the release of endorphins (your pet’s natural painkillers), relax muscles, reduce stress, and promote healing. At Two Hands Four Paws, canine and feline acupuncture is administered by a licensed veterinarian and is used to address any number of issues including:
- Pain
- Spinal problems
- Arthritis
- Gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea or constipation
- Allergies
- A weak immune system
- Skin problems
- Respiratory problems
- Urinary disorders
- Anxiety and behavioral problems
- Obesity
Since acupuncture works to promote your pet’s natural healing abilities, it often takes more than one treatment to see results. Though not a “cure-all”, it may be very effective at treating cases where anti-inflammatories or other medications have caused unwanted side effects for your pet or where surgery is not an option.
At Two Hands Four Paws, acupuncture can be booked as a stand-alone session or in conjunction with other forms of canine or feline rehabilitation therapy. Call us today at 310-475-8555 to find out more about the many benefits of canine and feline acupuncture at Two Hands Four Paws.