Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points of the body, usually along Meridians, to produce healing effects. Veterinary Acupuncture has been used in China for thousands of years, making it one of the oldest medical modalities for treating animals. Today, however, it is used all over the world to treat many different ailments. As we understand more about the neurological system and how acupuncture affects endorphins, pain, endocrine and immune systems, neurologists and anesthesiologists are at the forefront of adopting these ancient modalities for use in modern times.
Integrative veterinary medicine uses adjunctive therapies, like acupuncture, in addition to Western Medicine. Acupuncture cannot treat all ailments, but can be very successful when used where indicated. It is mostly non-invasive and has miniscule side effects, making it an excellent option for treating all pets, including those that are compromised and sick. Please know that although we assist in palliative and hospice care for pets, Acupuncture’s use is not just limited to older pets, but is also successfully treats many conditions in younger pets as well.
Acupuncture Is useful in treating:
- Muscle and joint disorders, acute injuries
- Pain (arthritis, cancer, athletic injury, post operative)
- Neurologic and intervertebral disc disease (back/neck issues)
- Respiratory disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Anorexia/decreased appetite
- GI disease (diarrhea, vomiting, gas)
- Skin disease
- Seizures
Acupuncture Appointment
Initial acupuncture consult & treatment: Traditional Chinese Medical exam $65 and acupuncture treatment $90 ($155 total). If the appointment is in your home, there is a $55 house call fee. Initial consultations usually take 60-70 minutes.
Follow-up Acupuncture treatment: Acupuncture treatment $90. If the appointment is in your home, there is a $55 house call fee. Follow-up appointments are generally 30-45 minutes
How to prepare your pet for an Acupuncture appointment
We like to provide treats and little snacks for your pet to keep them happy and comfortable. Please let us know what your pet's favorite treats are so we can have it or something similar on hand. It also helps to have your pet a little hungry so they will take treats more readily from us. Sharing food is a great way for us to become friends. If your pet is on a special diet or you would prefer to supply the treats, please let us know!
We like your pet to be in a comfortable, quiet area free from distractions. This might be on the couch, floor, blanket, cat tree or pet bed. But we should avoid heavily woven type blankets and fabrics as it can be hard to recover all of the needles.
If you have other pets, it is often helpful to have them occupied in another room or outdoors. The same is true for younger children or other family members that might be a distraction (think others getting a snack... I don't know about you but my fur kids would have to be in a coma to not crowd in the kitchen). If requesting a home visit, please try and schedule appointments when the home is at a low activity level.
I like to spend the first 10 minutes getting to know your pet. I take this time to get an initial assessment of your pet and your primary concerns. It is also important for me to understand your goals. I will need to know your pet’s current treatment plan, medications, and how you feel they are responding to treatments over time.
Once I obtain a full history, I will take the time to perform a traditional Chinese veterinary medical exam. This is a little different than a typical Western exam! I’ll ask lots of questions about your pet and examine pulses, tongue color, body temperature and look for sore areas. This helps me understand your pet’s current state and develop an acupuncture treatment plan.
First, I place a few needles in locations that assist in relaxing your pet. Then, based on the plan and what your pet will tolerate, I will place 5-22 needles. Needle placement usually takes 3-5 minutes. The goal is to keep the needles in for 15-30 minutes. Some needles may fall out and this is normal.
Your pet may also receive some Tui-na or acupuncture massage or laser acupuncture.
You can email us for an appointment at ridervetservices@gmail.com or call or text for an appointment at 309-550-9033 or see our CONTACT FORM below