Veterinary Acupuncture for Pets Tony George DVM Acupuncturist

VETERINARY ACUPUNCTURE

The origin of acupuncture dates back to ancient China. For centuries the healing art of acupuncture has been practiced on animals. This form of alternative medicine is based on bio-energy.

Acupuncture can unblock healing energy in addition to boosting the immune system, which aids in self-healing. Acupuncture stimulates your pet’s own immune system to release endorphins and hormones, while at the same time decreasing inflammation both internally and externally.

The Chinese discovered that animals have similar acupuncture points called “meridians”, just as humans. These “meridians” are the physical point of energy flow. “Meridians” correspond to specific internal organs, nervous system, and muscular & joint structures. When an animal is unhealthy, there is an imbalance or interference with their energy flow. The veterinary Acupuncturist manipulates your pet’s healing energy by stimulating specific acupuncture points, which alleviates the blockage or imbalance.

In order for your veterinarian to diagnose your pet, it’s important for you to have a thorough understanding of the body’s meridians and the relationship of those meridians to your pet’s corresponding condition or illness.

Here is a list of areas that respond favorably to veterinary acupuncture:

MUSCULAR and/or SKELETAL

These are the areas most commonly treated with veterinary acupuncture in western medical practice.

GYNECOLOGICAL

All female reproductive conditions are acknowledged to respond to acupuncture treatment including anestrus, metritis, dystocia, retained placenta, agalactia, mastitis and mesalliance.

MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

Impotence, orchitis, epididymitis, and libido can be successfully treated.

HORMONAL

Almost all of your pet’s hormonal systems can be affected, including all of the pituitary functions, thyroid & parathyroid functions, including adrenal functions. It is also possible to normalize blood sugar levels.

NEUROLOGICAL/PSYCHOLOGICAL

Anxiety, epilepsy and behavioral disorders, have all responded well to veterinary acupuncture treatments.

DERMATOLOGICAL

The skin can tell us if our pet is getting proper nutrition and how well they are disposing of waste through the respiratory, digestive and urinary systems. If an Acupuncturist can keep these organs and systems in good condition, this will be reflected in the skin.

PERFORMANCE

Acupuncture is being used to indirectly influence the performance of a dog or horse. It’s best not to use acupuncture 48 to 60 hours before a race due to the sedating effect. After 48 hours, there is usually an increase in vigor, vitality, and a general feeling of well-being.

It is always good to keep in mind that there are still a variety of conditions and illnesses that must be treated with drugs and/or surgery. The use of acupuncture in conjunction with drugs and/or surgery can immeasurably improve your companion animal’s chances for a rapid and complete recovery. Dr. Anthony George is a member of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture, and has traveled to China with members of the Chi Institute to enhance his knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine.