Needling Your Dog. Acupuncture

There are many different types of nontraditional medicine being practised in North America today. Among these alternative forms are Chiropractic medicine, Aroma therapy, Reiki, Massage Therapy, Homeopathy Herbal Medicine and Trigger Point Therapy. Another alternative or complementary approach to the treatment of your dog is acupuncture.

Description

Acupuncture is an ancient form of traditional Oriental medical treatment. It focuses on the belief that the body contains chi or ki. This life energy force flows along certain lines or meridians within the body. If there is a blockage of the chi, there is a manifestation within the body. This takes the form of illness - physical or psychological.

In acupuncture, the practitioner traditionally uses needles. Alternatively, the acupuncturist can utilize acupressure or inject a specific solution into the designated points. He or she places the needles into the skin or exerts pressure at appropriate parts. This releases the blockage or corrects any deficiency. This allows the chi or energy to flow freely once again.

Method

The first visit with your vet-acupuncturist is a question and answer period. You will be asked many different questions about the habits of your dog. There will be queries about feeding habits, his or her daily routine and behavior. You will be asked about any changes in these habits and levels of activity.

The vet-acupuncturist will also ask about what areas are sensitive. Does your dog have any hot or warm spots on his or her body? Does the dog wince or shy away when you touch a certain body part? These are essential to arriving at a complete picture of your dog’s health.

The first treatment will proceed only after an assessment is made. The initial treatment mimics those given to humans. The needles are inserted in the appropriate points. Sometimes, this will be proceeded by a massage if the area is sensitive. Alternatively, the acupuncturist could opt to apply only finger point pressure - acupressure. The method selected will depend upon the nature of the dog.

The number of needles will vary according to the health requirements of the canine. The needles will stay in for between 10 and 60 minutes. During this time, the practitioner will carefully monitor your dog. At the end of the treatment, you will be able to take your dog home. You will also need to set up another appointment.

Appropriate Treatment And Results

Acupuncture is not best for all health issues. It elicits the best response in the following situations

• Musculoskeletal problems. These include arthritis and hip dysplasia

• Partial tears of the cruciate ligament

• Post operative surgical recovery

• Skin problems such as allergies and dermatitis

• Chronic diarrhea

• Vomiting

Overall, however, acupuncture is best for general pain relief. This can include chronic pain. It is not effective and certainly not recommended for use where there are tumors. Furthermore, it is not to be implemented in combination with a few other forms of alternative treatments. This particularly applies to homeopathy. The combination of the 2 may actually be counterproductive.

In most situations, the result is not immediate. Acupuncture requires you to commit to a series of treatment sessions. It is not a quick fix.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is one more in the growing tools owners can turn to to help their canine companions. It is an ancient Oriental traditional form of combatting illness and injury. Talk to your vet and see if this form of noninvasive treatment is the right option for your dog.

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