Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points for therapeutic purposes. 

Only veterinary surgeons can perform acupuncture on animals as part of a conventional treatment plan. 

We use the Western acupuncture approach, which uses fewer needles inserted into more targeted acupuncture trigger points. 

The areas targeted are often further away from the main source of pain, meaning that your pet is more likely to readily accept the process.  

The proposed benefits of acupuncture include:

• Pain relief. 
• Muscle relaxation. 
• Stimulation of the body’s own defence system. 
• Releases natural endorphins.

Acupuncture has been suggested to support the treatment of many conditions, such as: 

• Urinary disorders. 
• Skin conditions. 
• Musculoskeletal disease. 
• Digestive problems. 
• Muscle injuries. 
• Neurological disorders.

Many pets respond positively to acupuncture treatment, as they can find it relaxing. 

The owner usually stays with their pet throughout, which can also help to contribute to a calm and relaxed experience.

Your pet’s treatment will be guided by diagnosis, principles of point selection, examination and their response to the treatment, alongside conventional veterinary medicine performed by a veterinary surgeon. 

Some conditions require four to six weekly appointments, with the first appointment usually being longer. 

For some more chronic conditions, treatments will be tailored to the individual patient’s needs, and will likely be reduced to a maintenance level eventually (such as once every four weeks).

Your pet’s insurance policy may cover acupuncture, but you should check with the insurance company first to make sure.

To learn more or book an acupuncture appointment for your pet, please contact your local Galedin branch.