What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of small needles into specific points in the body to cause a desired healing effect.  It is an approach used for thousands of years in human use, and proven to be extremely effective in enhancing quality of life for companion and farm animals.

What conditions respond to acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an approach that is helpful in treating pain and assisting in rehabilitation of various physical problems in dogs, horses, and many other animals.  These conditions include:
Musculoskeletal problems
Neurologic problems
Pain management and rehabilitation
Reproductive issues
Eye problems
Urologic conditions
Breathing and heart issues
Immunologic and skin conditions
Psychologic and behavior problems

How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a therapy designed to bring the body back into proper balance and works to affect the musculoskeletal, hormonal, and cardiovascular systems.  Depending on the condition and which points are utilized, acupuncture increases circulation, causes a release of body chemicals including the body’s natural pain-killing hormones, relieves muscle spasms, stimulates nerves and the body’s defense systems, and provides numerous other beneficial effects.

Is acupuncture painful?
The insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless.  Once the needles are in place, there should be no pain. Most animals become very relaxed and may even become sleepy.

Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is performed with sterile, thin stainless steel needles.  If practiced by a competent acupuncturist, it is very safe with rare side effects.  No chemicals are administered and complications rarely, if ever, develop.

How long do acupuncture treatments last and how often are they given?
An extensive initial examination and treatment are followed by a subsequent visit.  Depending on the condition, this may be sufficient.  However, sometimes several visits—and sometimes infrequent, ongoing treatment—are required to maintain relief of the condition.