Canine Acupuncture

History of Veterinary Acupuncture

There is early evidence that the caretakers of the Chinese Army's horses used acupuncture as early as 2,000 BC, during the Zang and Chow Dynasties. There are also texts about acupuncture for animals that are as old as 221 BC.

By the 17th century, veterinary acupuncture became popular in Europe. In 1974, the United States held a veterinary conference called "Acupuncture for the Veterinarian". Since that time, canine acupuncture has been growing in popularity with more and more veterinarians using this homeopathic treatment for dogs and other animals.

Acupuncture Treatment

Canine acupuncture is traditionally done with very fine sterile needles. However, with the advances in this type of medicine, the treatments may also include the use of:

• Lasers
• Silver or gold implants
• Electricity
• Heat and cold therapy
• Acupressure
• Injections

The length and number of treatments will vary depending on the dog's individual situation and response to acupuncture treatment. The average treatment lasts between five minutes and half an hour. Three to five times per week is the average number of visits during treatment. Chronic or severe ailments may take several treatments to yield results, yet some dogs get relief after the first canine acupuncture treatment.

Most western veterinary acupuncturists typically use a combination of two techniques to treat their patients. They use the traditional fine needles to insert at specific pressure points, and also a technique called aqua-puncture. Aqua-puncture is a method that involves injecting saline or vitamin B-12 at traditional acupuncture points using a hypodermic needle. The injection process is slightly more painful, but this procedure is effective because the healing effect remains in place even when the dog moves. Activity can present a problem during a traditional acupuncture treatment.

Will the Needles Hurt My Dog?

The needles used for canine acupuncture are so fine that several of them can fit inside a hypodermic needle. Dogs seem to show little sensitivity to the insertion of the needle. If there is some sensitivity upon insertion, it is momentary. Most dogs simply relax or fall asleep during treatment.

How Canine Acupuncture Works

Chinese medical philosophy is based on the premise that illness is the result of an imbalance of life energy or Chi within the body. Canine acupuncture resolves this imbalance and brings the dog back to good health.

In the Western way of thinking, canine acupuncture at particular points of the dog's body creates certain responses that cause healing to take place. Neuro-hormonal responses cause nerve stimulation, increase circulation, and create the release of endorphins and cortisol. All of these factors have healing effects on the body.

Whether you agree with the eastern or western philosophy does not matter, the healing outcome of acupuncture is the same. It is an effective holistic treatment for many dog health issues.

Selecting a Veterinary Acupuncturist

In most states, acupuncture is considered a surgical procedure and may not be performed by anyone other than a licensed veterinarian.

When looking for a professional to work with you and your dog, seek out a veterinarian that has had special training in acupuncture. This type of medicine requires formal training and takes many years to master.

There are several websites online that list veterinarians who are able to perform acupuncture on your pet.

• www.Acufinder.com
• The American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture
• The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society