Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

Veterinary acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been adapted for animals. Over the last 50 years significant research has been conducted in the west focusing on the neurophysiological effects of acupuncture on the nervous system. Dedicated veterinarians use it in conjunction with medicine and surgery to reduce pain in animals. It is commonly used alongside physiotherapy and hydrotherapy in dogs and cats to support recovery from injury. It involves the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain.

How does acupuncture work?

It works through the nervous system. The needles block the pain messages and encourage the brain and central nervous system to produce more of the body’s natural painkillers. In conditions that are not painful, acupuncture can help to reset the body’s normal functioning (homeostasis).

What should I expect?

The initial consultation involves detailed history to understand the full impact the condition has on your pets behaviour and the medication and supplements they are taking. Ideally, we have clinical notes and radiographs from your primary vet or physio. After examination of your pet, we get them settled on a comfortable mat, often with some treats. The needles will be placed into specific parts of the body and moved or stimulated a few times. Each pet is unique so the treatment is tailored specifically for them and depends on their response. Most of the time they accept the fine needles very well and often become relaxed and sleepy during the treatment.

And after the treatment?

It is not uncommon for pets to sleep soundly following their acupuncture treatment. This is a good sign and shows that your pet will probably respond well to acupuncture. But do not worry if they are not sleepy – this does not mean that they will not respond. Sometimes your pet may seem a little more euphoric than usual; this is also a good sign, but keep them quiet for the rest of the day or they may overdo things. Otherwise treat your pet normally after acupuncture. Do not change exercise, diet or medication unless it has been discussed with your vet.

What about response?

Your pet may show one of three responses to treatment:

• Improvement within 2–3 days; may be short-lived initially but typically builds with subsequent sessions.
• Initial stiffness followed by improvement in 1–2 days.
• No notable change after the first session; effects may build over 3–4 sessions and adjustments can be made.

Not all pets show a noticeable response, but over 80% show good improvements.

What kinds of conditions are treated with acupuncture?

Pain is the most common indication for acupuncture. Usually this means pain associated with arthritis, but also muscle strains, and cystitis. Paralysis and spinal disease causing nerve pain can respond well with acupuncture. Commonly we treat conditions in geriatric patients alongside their pain relief medication to help improve their quality of life. Functional conditions such as constipation in cats and irritable bowel type problems in dogs may also respond. Skin wounds that are slow to heal can also have enhanced healing with acupuncture.

Is acupuncture safe for my pet?

Yes, acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a qualified veterinarian with good knowledge of anatomy. The needles used are sterile and extremely fine and most pets don’t react to the needle placements. Tara is a certified Fear Free Practitioner, ensuring your pet is treated with care and compassion throughout the process. There are a very few cases in which we would have to be very cautious about using acupuncture, but Tara will advise you on this.

How many sessions will my pet need?

The number of sessions required depends on the individual pet and the condition being treated. Some pets show improvement after just one or two sessions, while others may benefit from a course of 4-8 treatments. Some chronic conditions need ongoing support with frequency of sessions dependant on the response to the treatment. During your initial consultation, Tara will assess your pet's condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your pet's specific needs.

Why choose mobile acupuncture?

Mobile acupuncture brings the treatment to your pet in the comfort of their own home. This eliminates stress from travel and veterinary clinic visits, which can be particularly beneficial for anxious pets. It also provides convenience for pet owners and allows your pet to rest in a familiar environment immediately after treatment.

Will my pet sit still for treatment?

I have worked with lots of different pets with varying temperaments. Often owners are worried that the needles will distress their anxious pet or they might be too high energy to stay still for the treatment, however this is rarely the case. We work with each patient to tailor the session to what they need and to ensure that they get the maximum benefit from the acupuncture treatment. The majority of pets relax in a calm environment and enjoy the gentle attention, with the use of treats as a distraction if needed.

Can you treat my horse or my dog's ear infection at the same time?

Although my veterinarian training did include equine patients, I work purely with cats and dogs now, meaning that my scope for AcuPaws treatment is limited to our canine and feline companions. Acupaws services are a dedicated acupuncture clinic, so if your pet has an ear infection or medical condition unrelated to the acupuncture treatment, additional veterinary care will need to be sought from your regular local veterinary clinic.