Acupuncture has long been used on humans to treat everything from migraines to nausea. Now, it’s not just people but also their pups that can benefit from this traditional medicine. Veterinarians are increasingly turning to this non-invasive treatment option to help dogs with a diversity of disorders. 

How Acupuncture Works

Basic acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into body tissue. Don’t worry: It won’t hurt! These precisely inserted needles simply stimulate so-called acupuncture points, targeted bundles of nerves and blood vessels. These points connect to meridians, energy channels that run across your dog’s body, so manipulating them can impact other areas of the anatomy.

The Top Ways Dogs Can Benefit From Acupuncture

1. Osteoarthritis

As they get older, dogs may experience arthritis due to thinning cartilage on the surface of the joints. This leads to painful swelling and stiffness. Acupuncture can address this inflammation and also spur the release of a body’s own pain-relieving substances.

2. Pain Management

Veterinarians may recommend acupuncture in conjunction with other treatments as a means of pain management. Chemotherapy, for instance, may be recommended for cancer—but it can lead to uncomfortable side effects. Acupuncture has been shown to relieve symptoms like dry mouth and fatigue in human chemo patients, and it can also help canines.

3. Skin Ailments

One of the major benefits of acupuncture is its ability to improve blood flow and oxygenation. This can address an array of skin conditions, such as granulomas—red, swollen and sometimes bleeding lesions—and allergic dermatitis.

4. Gastrointestinal Problems

The digestive system is also impacted by circulation, notably the flow of enzymes, gastric secretions, and metabolic wastes and toxins. Acupuncture can likewise help stimulate the circulation of these fluids, which is useful in addressing issues like nausea and diarrhea.

5. Respiratory Illnesses 

Asthma and allergies are both triggered by an immune response that creates an inflammatory reaction. If your dog suffers from these pet health conditions, your veterinarian may suggest acupuncture to help calm their immune system.

Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital is pleased to provide acupuncture as a supplementary treatment. This is just one of their many pet services, which includes everything from dentistry to dermatology and boarding. They even offer after-hours care in case of emergencies. Whatever you turn to them for, these veterinarians will treat your pet as if it were their own. Find out more about their offering online. For an appointment to discuss how acupuncture might benefit your pet, call (808) 671-7387.