Any dog owner would do whatever it takes to help their pup who is experiencing pain or discomfort. Modern veterinary medicine has started introducing acupuncture as a more mainstream treatment in dogs who experience nerve and joint pain. Here, our Riverbank vets list the 5 benefits of getting acupuncture for your dog.
Is Acupuncture Safe for My Dog?
Acupuncture has been used successfully on a variety of different animal species, including cats, dogs, rabbits, and horses. Your Riverbank veterinarian will be able to inform you whether acupuncture is a suitable therapy option for your specific circumstances.
Because the needles used in acupuncture are so small, most pets do not require pain treatment or sedation to endure an acupuncture session.
How Many Sessions Will My Dog Need?
Every pet is unique and has distinct reasons for seeking acupuncture therapy; the number of sessions will vary depending on how well and how quickly your pooch responds to the acupuncture treatment. Our veterinarians can give you an estimate of how many sessions will benefit your pet, but keep in mind that this may change as the treatment progresses.
How Can Acupuncture Benefit My Dog?
Here is a list of reasons why acupuncture can help your dog.
1. Pain Management & Relief
Acupuncture has been demonstrated to trigger the body's pain-relieving endorphins and anti-inflammatory chemicals, which can aid in the relief of chronic pain. Strong medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, which can be painful, are frequently combined with acupuncture to help make a pet more comfortable. Acupuncture can also help with chronic inflammatory disorders like arthritis.
2. Improved Digestive Function
Acupuncture may aid in the normalization of digestive activity by stimulating digestive secretions and increasing blood flow to the body. Acupuncture's enhanced blood flow can help with gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and nausea.
3. Improved Respiratory Function
Acupuncture can benefit pets suffering from respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies. Acupuncture has been demonstrated to offer to relax and immune-system calming characteristics, as well as the ability to treat animals with breathing problems. Acupuncture's immune-calming and anti-inflammatory properties assist dogs as well.
4. Promotes Healing
The insertion of needles at predetermined places is thought to boost blood flow, which is essential for healing and can speed up the process. It also stimulates your pet's natural waste disposal mechanism, which assists in the removal of all poisons and waste from their body.
5. Can Aid in Skin Problems
Acupuncture is a popular treatment for dogs who have skin issues such as allergic dermatitis, granulomas, or hot spots. The increased circulation can promote healing.
Bonus: Can Help With Musculoskeletal Issues
Acupuncture can help with musculoskeletal issues such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and nerve damage. It is frequently used during injury rehabilitation.