Acupuncture for Dogs

New age remedies are no longer limited to us humans, our four-legged companions have gotten in on the action as well!

Acupuncture is one of many forms of traditional Chinese medicine which are based on Qi, pronounced “Chiв”. Qi is energy that circulates through your body along defined pathways called Meridians. The energy is blocked when disease is present and symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and blood in the urine. Injecting special medicine through placing needles over the skin, into Meredian points stimulates the flow so Qi can return to normal.

In dogs and other animals, acupuncture is most commonly used for:

• musculoskeletal problems: hip dysplasia, arthritis
• urinary problems: incontenance, chronic renal failure
• respiratory & intestinal problems: asthma, chronic vomiting, recurrent diarrhea

Many find needles terrifying and the same goes for canines. Some will take them in better than others. If your dog panics, don’t force them to go through with acupuncture, there’s alternative methods out there.

Scientists have even developed herbal medicines especially for dogs. The difference between herbal and Western medicine is that herbal treatment views bodies as a whole (mind, body & spirit) rather than just focusing on the disease for a quick fix. The frequent use of antibiotics can permanently weaken your dog’s immune system and lead to more health problems so many owners are choosing to give their dogs herbal teas and tablets.

For both humans and dogs, the power of herbs can:

• boost the immune system
• detoxify the body and organs
• calm nerves
• add nutritious value to you and your dog’s diet

Your local vet may stock herbal medicine and offer acupunctural services or can definitely recommend a clinic that will.

Image courtesy of markhillary