Dog Acupuncture - The Benefits and Techniques of Dog Acupuncture

Name: Veterinary Services
Brand: Two Hands Four Paws

What is dog acupuncture?

Dog acupuncture is similar to human acupuncture and functions in the same way across all species. Originating in China over 3,000 years ago, this modality revolves around the understanding that certain points in the body correspond to specific conditions. Acupuncture works by stimulating these pressure points with a needle to channel energy into the area.

Dr. Erika Budde
Two Hands Fours Paws

What is moxibustion and why is it considered part of acupuncture therapy?

Moxibustion involves the burning of a Chinese herb above a site that requires additional heat. The heat produced is intense and is used to stimulate pressure points that require heat stimulation. Despite its distinctive aroma, moxibustion is extremely beneficial in providing heat to your pet's affected area.

How does the use of acupuncture impact the health and well-being of your dog?

Acupuncture is a beneficial treatment for all species, including dogs, cats, and humans. It works by stimulating energy. From a Western medicine perspective, conditions like arthritis or neurological disorders are viewed as energy blockages or imbalances in acupuncture and Chinese medicine theory. Acupuncture stimulates energy at specific points to address the underlying condition causing symptoms such as arthritis or other diseases.

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Dog Acupuncture - FAQs

Dr. Erika Budde
Two Hands Fours Paws

How do I know if acupuncture is a viable option for my dog?

The first step in determining if acupuncture is a good option for your dog is a thorough physical exam with a veterinarian. They can detect signs of pain that you might not see, including subtle signs of lameness. This exam can be done either with your primary doctor who can then refer you for acupuncture, or it can be done at Two Hands Four Paws right off the bat.

Does acupuncture work for dogs?

Acupuncture works for all species, including dogs. It's a practice that has been in use for over 3,000 years, originating in China for human treatment. It works for cats, lizards, birds, and even rabbits. While I can't confirm its effectiveness in fish, it's applicable to all other species I can think of.

Is there more than one type of acupuncture?

There are four types of acupuncture. The most common is dry needling, where a needle is inserted into the skin at a certain pressure point. The second is electroacupuncture, which involves attaching electrodes to the needles to stimulate energy at those sites. The third type, chemo or acupuncture, involves using saline, vitamin B, or even the patient's own blood being injected into the pressure points for a longer effect. The last type is moxibustion, where an herb is burned over certain sites to stimulate heat in the area.

Is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture itself is not painful. Often, patients don't even realize that the needles have been inserted. Occasionally, there can be a minor sensation at a pressure point that has bad energy, but this is temporary and less painful than injections like vaccines or blood drawing.

Can acupuncture be used with other types of veterinary medicine?

Acupuncture works well either on its own or in conjunction with regular veterinary medicine. For instance, in treating a patient with lameness due to a torn cruciate or muscle strain, we'd assess if acupuncture alone is sufficient or if we need to add in pain control or anti-inflammatory treatments. But it works great either way, standalone or coupled with other treatments.