Acupuncture
Acupuncture offers a gentle, holistic approach to healing. By stimulating key points in the body, our trained veterinarians help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support overall wellness—enhancing your pet’s comfort and quality of life.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Studies in both humans and animals are providing new insights about the mechanisms of acupuncture therapy. Current research suggests that the needle insertion stimulates nerve bundles at the insertion sites. Once activated, these nerves send signals to the brain with a number of effects including changes in pain, blood flow, emotional state, muscle tone, immune response, hormone and neurotransmitter release, and nerve function, all dependent on the selected sites and how they are stimulated.
What Happens During a Session of Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats?
It is usually helpful for your pet to be as calm as possible prior to treatment. Most pets become increasingly more relaxed or even drowsy during the procedure. The acupuncturist places a number of very thin, sterile needles into specific locations, based on the diagnosis. Most pets will feel little or no pain during the needle insertion, although particularly sensitive areas may cause minor sensations. The number of needles, locations, frequency, and duration of treatment all vary based on your pet’s specific needs and condition. The work of activating the selected sites continues while the needles are in place. Needles are removed at the end of the session (usually after 10 – 30 minutes).
Is Acupuncture Safe for Pets?
Acupuncture has a very low incidence of adverse side effects when performed by a properly trained professional. Since sterile needles are used for the procedure, infection at the insertion site is a very rare, possible side effect. Some pets appear more lethargic immediately following treatment as the body uses its energy resources to provide the natural healing effects that have been activated. In such cases the treatment will be adjusted by the acupuncturist during subsequent treatments.
Acupuncture at 1st Pet
As part of our rehabilitation program, we are pleased to have Dr. Jessica Venable, DVM, CVA, CCRT, leading our rehabilitation team. Dr. Venable has been practicing veterinary medicine since 2009 after graduating from Colorado State University. She is certified in veterinary acupuncture and canine rehabilitation, and is passionate about helping pets regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.
Acupuncture appointments are offered at both our North Valley and Mesa locations. Availability may vary by location, and our team will be happy to help you schedule where it works best for you and your pet.