Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats

dog and cat

Pets suffer from some of the same health problems that humans do, and they can benefit from some of the same treatments. Although people often think that ailments should be treated with medication, holistic treatments such as acupuncture can be effective and don’t have some of the side effects that are common with prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

How Can Acupuncture Help Pets?

Acupuncture is a type of holistic care that focuses on the body, mind, and spirit. For dogs and cats suffering from inflammation, pain, arthritis, limited mobility, anxiety, digestive problems, skin conditions, and allergies, acupuncture can be helpful. Acupuncture needles can stimulate the nervous system, improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Acupuncture may be used in addition to or instead of other treatments, such as medication.

How Does Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats Work?

Acupuncture treatments for pets are very similar to acupuncture treatments for humans. If your pet needs treatment, a veterinarian will first examine the animal and discuss its medical history. The veterinarian will insert thin acupuncture needles into your pet’s skin at specific locations to stimulate the nervous system. The needles are generally left in the skin for approximately 20 minutes.

The process isn’t painful. It may cause anxiety for your pet at first, but dogs and cats generally relax after a short time. Your pet may feel stiff or sore for a day or two after receiving acupuncture treatment.

Not all veterinarians offer acupuncture services. Acupuncture for pets should only be performed by a veterinarian with appropriate training. If your pet’s current veterinarian doesn’t offer acupuncture services, ask for the name of a qualified provider in your area.

Keep Your Pet Safe from Harm

Pets often need acupuncture and other forms of care because of injuries. While it’s not possible to prevent all injuries, you should do as much as you can to keep your pet safe. One way to protect your dog from harm is to keep it in your yard when you’re not taking it for a walk or a ride in the car.

Constructing a physical fence around your property can be expensive, and it can block the view of the neighborhood and the landscape surrounding your home. In addition, a fence can require expensive and time-consuming maintenance.

An outdoor hidden fence is an effective way to keep your dog in your yard, and it’s more affordable and easier to maintain than a physical barrier. An outdoor hidden fence can encircle the perimeter of your yard, or you can give your dog access to a portion of the property and keep other areas, such as a garden, off-limits.

DogWatch of Massachusetts has been making hidden fence systems since 1990. We’ve earned a reputation for selling quality containment and training products and for providing customer service with honesty and integrity. Contact your local dealer today to learn more.