Acupuncture is a medical treatment performed by the insertion of sterile (single-use) acupuncture needles through the skin into the underlying tissues and muscles at specific points on the body for the purpose of alleviating pain and/or for treating other clinical conditions. Acupuncture is considered an alternative treatment and should be used in conjunction with traditional medicine provided by your regular veterinarian.

Acupuncture can help alleviate pain from many causes and can be particularly helpful with muscle stiffness, soreness, and imbalances caused by IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) and osteoarthritis/degenerative joint disease. It may also help with neurologic conditions such as Degenerative Myelopathy and other polyneuropathies. Acupuncture may also provide some beneficial internal effects such as providing gentle support to a failing organ.

Acupuncture is considered very safe for animals. It is common for our patients to be tired or fatigued for a day or two after acupuncture. This is a normal response and can be a sign that the body is incorporating the treatment. Other potential side effects are bruising, redness, swelling, soreness or bleeding at the treated sites.

Some pets appear to respond to acupuncture immediately, exhibiting improved mobility and energy. In some pets, improved comfort is demonstrated by reduced restlessness and better sleep. It may take several treatments for a response to be apparent and not all pets respond to acupuncture. You and Dr. Karen will discuss how your pet has been responding between visits and tailor ongoing treatments accordingly.

Most pets will tolerate at least some of the most important acupuncture points. For sensitive patients, we can often use slow treats (frozen baby food or peanut butter) as a distraction. There are some patients, however, that will not tolerate the needles. In that case, we can prescribe gentle sedatives for you to give before future visits, which may help.

Yes! Acupuncture is intended to augment, not replace, the medications and treatments your regular vet has already implemented. While Dr. Karen is a veterinarian, Vine Veterinary Acupuncture is not a full service practice and does not have access to the scope of equipment and diagnostics that your regular veterinarian does.

Dr. Karen is offering a complimentary 15 minute zoom (or phone if you do not feel comfortable with video) call for new clients. Click here to schedule.