Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is one of the oldest forms of medicine still in practice today.

The definition of acupuncture is the placement of needles into specific parts of the body to achieve therapy and restore balance (homeostasis) in the patient.

Veterinary Acupuncture

Veterinary Acupuncture, or acupuncture for animals, is reported to date back to ancient China when it was used to treat injured horses during times of war.  Now days, Veterinary acupuncture is much more common and is also used in pets. 

Treatments are performed in a quiet and relaxed environment and are customised to meet the special needs of each patient.  Pets are placed on a warm, soft bed and often become very relaxed during the treatment.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Veterinary acupuncture offers many benefits, which make it a useful treatment option for pets.  These include:

• Acupuncture is a natural therapy
• Acupuncture is safe and drug-free
• Acupuncture provides pain relief and can reduce or eliminate the need to take other medications
• Acupuncture can be combined with other treatment options
• Acupuncture can be used to treat many different conditions and can significantly improve quality of life

Uses for Acupuncture

There are many different types of conditions that can be treated with acupuncture:

• Musculoskeletal system: arthritis, hip dysplasia, weakness and paralysis, intervertebral disc disease, spine/nerve problems
• Digestive system: vomiting, diarrhea, appetite stimulation, constipation
• Respiratory system: bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, cat flu
• Urinary system: urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection and cystitis, renal failure
• Other: neurological problems, skin problems, ear and eye problems

Acupuncture is a therapeutic service that is now available for pets at Kingston Veterinary Hospital.  If you are interested to learn more or would like to make an appointment please call us on 9584 7500, and speak to Dr Sara Baldey.

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