7 Benefits of Acupuncture for Dogs in Columbus, OH

Some common questions that have become more popular among pet owners in Columbus involving acupuncture for dogs include what exactly it is, whether or not it’s safe, and what are the benefits that come with it. In this article, we’ll answer all of these questions, as well as provide additional information about this service.

What is Acupuncture for Dogs in Columbus, OH?

Acupuncture has been used on humans for thousands of years. Acupuncture originated in China. When acupuncture is performed needles are inserted into specific points on the body to create a healing response. There are multiple acupuncture points that relate to specific conditions, and when stimulated with a needle, the body responds.

Acupuncture is used all around the world to treat a wide variety of conditions in several species of animals, ranging from horses to dogs and cats.

Clinical research shows positive results in the treatment of both animals and humans with acupuncture, and it’s use is gaining wide popularity in veterinary medicine. Acupuncture may not cure every condition, and it may not be for every pet, but it can work well to reduce pain and inflammation in some patients. For example, acupuncture has been known to work in some dogs and cats suffering from arthritis, hip dysplasia, and degenerative joint disease.

When acupuncture is used in veterinary medicine, small needles are inserted into the skin at specific points on the body where life energy is believed to “flow.” This is called “Qi,” pronounced like “chee” in traditional Chinese medicine. When these different acupuncture points are stimulated, they cause specific effects in the body.

During an acupuncture session, many pets feel no pain during the placement of the tiny needles, and some pets may become so relaxed that they may fall asleep during a session.

The AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) has recognized acupuncture as a valid form of medical treatment in veterinary medicine, and the AVMA has stated that veterinary acupuncture can be used to treat and prevent specific medical conditions. One of the biggest benefits of acupuncture is that it’s a medication-free treatment, and can be safely performed in almost all pets, even those with underlying diseases and conditions.

How Safe is Acupuncture for Dogs in Columbus, OH?

Dog acupuncture should only be administered by a licensed veterinarian in Columbus, OH and should never be given without a proper veterinary medical diagnosis. The reason for this is that acupuncture can mask pain and other conditions, and may delay an appropriate medical diagnosis after treatment has started.

Acupuncture can be used with most conventional therapies, and is safe if practiced by a trained and/or Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. It is important to seek out a certified acupuncturist for your pet because there is the potential for adverse effects on your pet if the treatments are not done correctly.  Appropriate training for a veterinarian includes an intensive post-doctoral educational program in veterinary acupuncture, knowledge of the scientific and anatomical basis for acupuncture points.

It is always recommended to develop a treatment plan with your veterinarian that’s right for you and your pet.  Alternative treatments. especially acupuncture, can potentially help make your dog’s life more comfortable generally when used in tandem with other traditional treatments and methods.

Benefits of Dog Acupuncture in Columbus, OH

Acupuncture therapy has been used for over 5,000 years on people and has been effectively treating pets of all shapes and sizes for the last few decades in America. Traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and herbals, have been used on horses in China for thousands of years. But, if you have any questions, or need more information, please contact your local veterinarian in Columbus.

Acupuncture for dogs can benefit the treatment for a variety of health problems, including:

Cancer Treatment

As mentioned above, acupuncture is used to help with pain relief, and is often used in conjunction with other pain management techniques in veterinary medicine. For example, for pets undergoing chemotherapy for cancer treatment, acupuncture can help to make a pet more comfortable and lessen side effects.

Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with other pain management regimens for palliative cancer care; especially for bone cancer, which can be particularly painful for a pet. It can also be used to treat chemotherapy side-effects such as nausea and diarrhea.

Arthritis or Musculoskeletal Issues

In older dogs, issues such as arthritis, degenerative disk disease, back problems and hip dysplasia can be debilitating and painful, and acupuncture can be used to treat these conditions in addition to traditional methods. Arthritis and aging concerns are the most common reasons people seek out acupuncture for their pets. Some pets are even able to greatly reduce or discontinue their oral form medications.

Acupuncture can be especially helpful to facilitate rehabilitation of a pet after an injury, and can help slow down muscle atrophy.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Acupuncture can help relieve gastrointestinal (GI) problems such as vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Correct needle placement can also aid digestion by helping to stimulate digestive enzymes and secretions.

Studies have also shown that acupuncture can aid in the treatment of pancreatitis, which can be particularly painful for pets.

Skin Issues and Allergies

Acupuncture can also help treat allergic dermatitis, skin bacterial infections called “hot spots,” and granulomas (small areas of inflammation), because it can help  speed up the healing process and thickened skin.

It can also help in reducing inflammation in areas of the skin, and as a result reduce your dog’s urge to over groom, lick or scratch.

Respiratory Issues

Acupuncture can help with problems related to asthma, and respiratory reactions to allergens by calming the immune system, and reducing inflammation. Also, acupuncture has been shown to effectively enhance the treatment of chronic allergic bronchitis and asthma in both cats and dogs.

Neurological Conditions

Pets with neurological conditions, partial paralysis, or pets who have difficulty walking or getting around can also benefit from acupuncture. Also, in conjunction with other treatments, acupuncture techniques have been shown to help control seizures in some patients, and to help relieve muscle spasms.

Post-Op Soft Tissue Surgery

Studies have shown that in both dogs and cats that underwent soft tissue surgeries, acupuncture techniques helped to lower post-op pain in both dogs and cats.

Two studies on cat spays revealed that there was a reduced need for pain medications after the surgery in those cats that received acupuncture.

Learn More About Acupuncture for Dogs in Columbus, OH

If you are considering acupuncture for your pet, consult with your veterinarian in Columbus to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you and your dog. Alternative healing methods like acupuncture have the potential to make your dog’s life more comfortable when used in conjunction with more traditional medicine.

At North Kenny Veterinary Hospital, our trained veterinarian customizes each acupuncture plan to fit the needs of your pet. We understand that some dogs react differently to some treatment methods than others, which is why we take the time to examine your pet and work with you on deciding what’s best for your dog. If you want to learn more about acupuncture and how it can benefit your dog, or if you want to make an appointment, contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you!