Why should I use acupuncture for my pet?

Acupuncture has been used to heal animals and people for millennia. Among the first animals to receive the benefits of this healing technique was an elephant, about 3500 years ago. This fellow was afflicted with a stomach disorder, similar to bloating, and was treated with the gentle insertion of slender needles in specific points on his body. History reports simply the fact that acupuncture was used successfully. What likely happened is something I see in the office every day: my patients begin to breathe more deeply, slow down and relax. Eyes open wider, noses begin to sniff, and ears perk up. Tails wag, legs prance, and heads look for affection from their owners. Change is inevitable.

What is acupuncture generally used for?

The indications for the use of acupuncture are many and varied. Acupuncture assists the workings of the immune system, and thus taps into the natural healing capabilities of the body itself.

General Health and well being:

Depression and lack of interest in food, behavior problems, the luster of the coat and eyes, reproductive health for breeding animals, vigor and attention of show quality animals, alopecia or hair loss, and lick granulomas or hot spots.

Gastrointestinal:

Constipation, particularly with cats, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased or increased appetite, excessive drooling and pancreatitis, irritable bowel syndrome.

Musculoskeletal:

Arthritis, hip displasia, limping of unknown origin, lesions on the spine.

Long term support of the immune system:

Diseases such as Lyme disease, endocrine problems, kidney disease, seizure disorders, and recovery from surgery.  The side effects of chemotherapy are ameliorated with acupuncture. Cancer patients find relief from pain, and may experience a reduction in the size and irritability of external lesions.