Acupuncture for pets

Acupuncture is an ancient form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that stimulates the body to produce its own natural pain-killers and can thus be an effective form of pain relief. According to the ancient Chinese pain was a blockage of Qi energy within the body and the strategic placement of acupuncture needles corrects and re-balances this flow.

It can be highly effective in treating musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis, hip dysplasia and growth problems.

It may be used on its own or in combination with existing medications or after surgery. Acupuncture may also be beneficial in cases where conventional medications are not effective or if the animal is suffering from side effects of treatment. Holly has found that it can be of special benefit to older patients where as well as helping their arthritis it may enhance appetite and sleep patterns and generally boost their well being.

Most animals respond well to acupuncture and relax during the session and may even fall asleep. The needles are disposable and only used once, usually 8-10 needles are used and they are left in about 15-20 minutes. They are very fine needles and do not cause pain, only a small pricking sensation is felt on insertion.

Usually an initial course of 4 weekly treatments are offered, which are then usually tapered down to monthly sessions, depending on the individual response.