Acupuncture has gained support in the medical community as a natural way to relieve pain, decrease anxiety, improve immune function, and balance the internal function of the body in both pets and people. Treatment is applied by using small, thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body known to speed healing and reduce pain. We know from studies that acupuncture causes physiological changes including stimulation of nerves, increased blood circulation and the release of hormones such as endorphins (one of the body’s pain relief hormones) and cortisol (a natural anti-inflammatory).

You might be surprised to learn that most pets are very tolerant of acupuncture therapy using needles, and if not, we can use other methods to access the acupoints (e.g. laser stimulation) and help them to feel better. 

If your pet is painful, has chronic health issues, or just doesn’t seem to feel their best, acupuncture could really make a difference!

Acupuncture Protocol

Acupuncture uses extremely thin needles that cause minimal to no pain, and because of that the needles are generally well-tolerated by pets. However, incorrect placement of the needle or inadequate sterilization can result in pain or complications.

Duration of each treatment session can vary depending on the condition of your pet and the treatment approach. If your pet is new to Eglinton Vet, there will be a longer, detailed consultation required with Dr. Bateman initially, and this first session will include treatment as indicated. After this, chronic conditions may take a number of treatments for a positive response to be seen (we suggest that clients anticipate 4-6 visits with chronic issues). After optimum responses are achieved, treatments may taper off. Acute conditions will sometimes respond to a few treatments.

We are committed to providing the best possible acupuncture care for your furry friend. Every test, decision, and treatment is customized to the specific needs of your cat, dog, or other animal so that they can manage their condition or recovery and live out their happy, healthy life.

Acupuncture and/or herbal medicine can be used to address conditions such as: 

• Acute and chronic musculoskeletal or neurological pain due to injury or age – for example: arthritis, muscle strains, cranial cruciate ligament disease, luxating patella, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease

• Allergies and dermatitis

• Anxiety and other behavioral disorders including canine cognitive dysfunction in senior pets

• Cancer

• Immune mediated conditions

• Internal organ dysfunction - for example: kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease

• Gastrointestinal problems - for example: vomiting or diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis

• Bladder and urinary tract inflammation

• Seizures and vestibular disease