Acupuncture For Dogs: Animal acupuncture is quickly becoming an accepted practice in treating a broad assortment of aliments including allergies and arthritis – can your dog benefit? <!–More–>
Most people know of acupuncture for humans and the wonderful benefits it has for us, however, do not really know that much about how it works, or that it may also be extremely beneficial for our pets.
Personally, I think it’s a terrific thing and my dog, Oscar, has it regularly to maintain his back muscles in good order, so he can walk fine, and to relieve any frustrations he has in his belly. His response to it’s nothing short of miraculous. Possessing the acupuncture on a regular basis keeps him topped-up and fighting fit. Learn more about how acupuncture for pets works, just click here to read more information.
1) What conditions can be treated?
Acupuncture for dogs is largely utilised to alleviate pain associated with musculoskeletal problems like arthritic, post orthopaedic surgery and back pain. However, it may also be utilised as an aid to treatment in certain skin conditions such as allergic skin disease and a few practical conditions like recurrent constipation in cats and irritable bowel type problems in dogs. It may also provide great relief from the side effects of some cancer therapies, eliminating incontinence and even reducing epilepsy episodes.
2) What can I expect?
An acupuncture session will normally last around twenty to thirty minutes. The first consultation will last longer in order to empower your practitioner to collect your pet’s complete history and perform an examination. Moreover, you’ll probably have to contact your regular Veterinary Surgeon to obtain consent for treatment before our first consultation.
A course of four to six weekly treatments is generally recommended, followed by a maintenance treatment every four to six weeks depending on the issue and how your pet reacts.
3) Is it secure?
Yes. But do be sure you visit a fully qualified practitioner and a person who’s trained in treating animals.
4) Is it painful?
If a specific muscle is sore or in spasm, it could be slightly uncomfortable to begin with, but the real launch of a pin into the stressed region should relax that specific muscle directly, thereby giving relief to your pet. But most animals tolerate needle positioning extremely well and become relaxed. Some dogs may even fall asleep during remedies!
If your pet does become tired during or after the treatment this is generally a sign he or she will respond well to acupuncture. Having said this, if your pet does not become sleepy, this doesn’t imply that there’ll be no response. Approximately 80 percent of animals will respond well to acupuncture.
5) How many needles will be utilised in my dog?
The amount of needles set and the amount of time they’re in place for, during therapy, is individual to each patient.
6) What can I expect after the treatments?
You will probably see one of 3 things after the acupuncture treatment:
- Your pet may appear to be in a little more pain the day after treatment. This may indicate that a lot of needles were put or the needles were aroused too often (sometimes a minute electrical pulse is used to stimulate the muscles more). Do not worry, this should not last and following treatments can be corrected if needs be.
- You will see no response. This could be due to a small but transient improvement that has been too minute for you to view, or because inadequate needles were placed. Again, following treatments can be corrected if this occurs.
- You will see an improvement. Individuals frequently report that an improvement in demeanour prior to an improvement in freedom. Any improvement will typically last up to 3 times following the first session, and following treatments should provide longer lasting results!
7) Is not animal acupuncture pricey?
This depends entirely on your own practitioner. However, acupuncture can nearly always be maintained for on pet insurance, providing the condition your dog is getting acupuncture for is covered by the policy.