When it comes to the health of our dogs, we would pretty much do whatever we could in an effort to make them feel well. There are a variety of methods to help us ensure that our pets receive medical care and treatment. Western medicine, massage, special diets and Acupuncture are just a few.
Acupuncture is considered holistic healing and is a form Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). Acupuncture can be used in all stages of life from puppy to geriatric.
There are a few forms of Acupuncture and how it can be implemented, however the two forms most widely used would be acupuncture with needles and pressure. Acupuncture with needles is performed by insertion of fine needles into the areas of the body where the blood vessels join with the nerve bundles. Additionally, Acupressure is performed with no needles, simply applying pressure to the same points of the body.
Dr. Monica Luna of Venice, Florida demonstrates acupuncture for pets:
How does it work?
The way acupuncture works is by enhancing the blood circulation, stimulating the nervous system and releasing pain relieving and anti-inflammatory hormones through the body. This allows the body to attempt to heal itself.
My April Mae receiving acupuncture.
What can be treated by acupuncture? Acupuncture is considered ideal treatment for a variety of ailments and disorders such as:
1. Stomach disorders
2. Joint issues and pain
3. Skin conditions and allergies
4. Urinary issues
5. Cardiac arrest
Pro’s for using Acupuncture:
1. Removes toxins and metabolic waste
2. There are no harmful side effects
3. Relaxes the muscles at the site of the needle, allowing the body to regain a state of relaxation
4. No harmful drug interactions to worry about should your pet currently be on any medications
As you can see, there are many positive reasons why you should consider acupuncture as a treatment or therapeutic method to assist your canine with his ailments. As with any form of medical treatment, consult your Vet and seek out Veterinary offices that are trained in TCVM. And as always, prevention is best. Ensure you take your pet for annual checkups and brush your pet daily, so you can keep any eye on any changes in your pets body and/or conditions. Doing so will enable you to be proactive and catch any new conditions earlier versus later when treatments of any kind will be required.
