Acupuncture, an ancient healing art believed to have originated in China over 2000 years ago, has become widely accepted in western medicine over the past 30 years. Today, acupuncture is a valuable tool in the treatment of many conditions of pain and neurologic dysfunction. Although we do not completely understand all of the mechanisms by which acupuncture works in the body, several effects are well documented: Acupuncture inhibits the pain center of the brain, causes the release of morphine-like substances into the blood and tissues, and stimulates increased blood flow to injured tissue. Currently there are three schools of veterinary acupuncture in the United States: The Chi Institute, The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) and The Colorado State College of Veterinary Medicine.

Only licensed veterinarians are eligible to attend these courses, which, along with passing both written and practical tests and completing an internship, lead to the certification of “Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist.” Many pets, especially senior pets, can benefit from acupuncture. Conditions which are commonly treated include: osteopathic, hip dysphasia, back pain, neck pain, intervertebral disc disease, cystitis and facial nerve paralysis. A typical acupuncture session consists of a physical examination followed by the placement of approximately 15 small needles in the body. Most pets do not find the needles uncomfortable in the least. The needles then remain in place for 15 to 20 minutes. The pet may lie down or move around with the needles. Sessions may be repeated every other week for chronic conditions or more frequently for acute issues.

Please feel free to contact Dr. Adrianne Doering for more information at adoering@longmeadowvet.com

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