More and more people are choosing alternative health care for their beloved pets. The benefits people receive from acupuncture are the same with pets.  However, animals are quicker to respond to acupuncture since there is no psychology to contend with when receiving a treatment. In addition, animals are more sensitive to the sensations derived from an acupuncture needle. In animal/veterinary acupuncture the meridians or channels in which the "qi" or energy flows are similar to that in a person. However, the acupuncture points are condensed because of the structure of the fore and hind limbs. Thus, adjustments are taken into consideration.

    What do the animals feel during an acupuncture treatment? ◊ ◊ ◊   Most dogs and cats feel very relaxed simply because of the release of endorphins soon after the first acupuncture needle is inserted just as with people.  Furthermore, the same chain of reactions that occurs in the human body, happens in the pet's.   Even though an acupuncture treatment is very relaxing, there is a slight degree of anxiety during the initial treatment just because the pet is unaccustomed to the sensations of the needles.   Normally, for subsequent treatments, the majority of pets are less anxious and ready for their treatment.

       Is acupuncture appropriate for pets on medication such as metacam, rimadyl, etc.? ◊ ◊ ◊   Yes. It is not only appropriate but will enhance the effectiveness of the medication. Acupuncture is very supportive to medication.