Acupuncture for Animals

Contributed by Rachel Bergman VMD, CVA

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is defined as the stimulation of a distinct point on the body with a specific method, resulting in a therapeutic effect.  The ancient Chinese people identified 361 different acupoints in humans, and 173 acupoints in animals.  The earliest discovered written record of veterinary acupuncture is believed to have been published in the 6th century B.C.  Acupuncture points are stimulated in a number of ways, including dry needles, electricity, aquapuncture, or heated herbs (moxibustion) to achieve a therapeutic effect and restore the balance of energy in the body.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Chinese medicine describes a vital life force, or “Qi”.  Qi flows through the body 24 hours a day along pathways called “meridians”.    When the healthy flow of Qi is interrupted by injury, infection, allergy, exhaustion or any other pathogenic process, disease can develop.  Stimulating our acupoints can help return the healthy flow of Qi to our meridians. Modern research shows that acupoints are located in areas of the body where there is a high density of nerve fibers, immune system cells and small vessels.  A large number of studies have shown that stimulating acupoints causes the release of beta-endorphin, serotonin and other powerful neurotransmitters.

What is Veterinary Acupuncture Used For?

Acupuncture is indicated mainly for functional problems such as those that involve paralysis, noninfectious inflammation (such as allergies), and pain. For small animals, the following are some of the general conditions which may be treated with acupuncture:
• Musculoskeletal problems, such as arthritis, muscle soreness or  vertebral disc pathology
• Skin problems, such as lick granuloma and allergic dermatitis
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as chronic diarrhea or vomiting
• Neurologic disorders such as seizures and laryngeal paralysis
• Chronic conditions such as asthma, anxiety, behavioral problems
• Geriatric problems such as renal failure and high blood pressure

Is Acupuncture Safe for Animals?

Acupuncture is one of the safest forms of medical treatment for animals when it is administered by a properly trained veterinarian. Side effects of acupuncture are rare, but they do exist. An animal’s condition may seem worse for up to 48 hours after a treatment. Other animals may become sleepy or lethargic for 24 hours after acupuncture. These effects are an indication that some physiological changes are developing, and they are most often followed by an improvement in the animal’s condition.