Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when performed by a licensed and certified veterinarian. It is the stimulation of the body at specific points called acupoints, which are areas of nerve endings, small blood vessels, and lymphatics, with small needles. This stimulation releases chemicals which help relieve pain, and also help balance the health of organ systems.
Most animals tolerate and may even enjoy the acupuncture treatment. Each acupuncture treatment may last 20 to 60 minutes. Sometimes a single treatment is all that is needed. However, 3 to 10 treatments may be necessary to help resolve chronic problems.
Often acupuncture is combined with other forms of traditional chinese medicine like Tui-na (chinese chiropractic/ massage), chinese herbs and food therapy to achieve the desired 
treatment goal.
When is Acupuncture Indicated?
Acupuncture therapy may be effective for the following conditions
- Musculoskeletal problems- muscle soreness, back pain, disc problems, osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease
- Neurological disorders, seizures, nerve paralysis
- Gastrointestinal disorders- diarrhea, stomach ulcers, colic, vomiting constipation and impaction
- Other chronic problems- heaves, asthma, cough, uveitis, behavioral problems, hormone imbalances, skin problems, renal failure, geriatric weakness
- Performance enhancement and prevention of disease
Veterinarians certified in Veterinary Acupuncture can be located via the website www.tcvm.com. Canton Animal Clinic’s Dr. Amy Thompson is a certified veterinary acupuncturist.
