Every pet parent knows that look—when your companion’s eyes tell you they’re not feeling their best, and conventional medicine hasn’t quite hit the mark. Whether it’s the senior cat who can no longer jump to their favorite perch or the dog wincing when climbing into the car, watching our pets struggle can leave us searching for additional solutions. These therapies might seem unconventional at first glance, but have been transforming pets’ lives with sometimes astonishing results, bringing comfort and renewed energy where traditional treatments alone couldn’t quite reach.

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we’re proud to offer veterinary acupuncture as part of our integrative approach to pet wellness. Our trained veterinarians have witnessed remarkable improvements in pets suffering from a wide range of ailments, including arthritis, anxiety, and more. By combining traditional veterinary medicine with holistic therapies, such as acupuncture, we provide comprehensive care that addresses your pet’s complete health needs.

What Is Veterinary Acupuncture?

Veterinary acupuncture follows the same principles as acupuncture for humans, adapted specifically for animal anatomy. The practice involves inserting extremely thin, sterile needles into specific points on your pet’s body. These acupuncture points are areas where nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue can be stimulated to produce therapeutic effects.

While it may seem surprising, most pets tolerate acupuncture treatments remarkably well. Many animals actually become relaxed during their sessions, with some even falling asleep! The needles used are so fine that they cause minimal to no discomfort upon insertion. For particularly sensitive or anxious pets, we take extra time to ensure they feel comfortable and secure throughout the treatment.

The Science Behind Acupuncture

Though rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, modern scientific research has helped us understand how acupuncture works from a physiological perspective. When acupuncture needles stimulate specific points, they trigger several beneficial responses in your pet’s body:

  • Release of natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins and enkephalins)
  • Improved blood circulation to tissues and organs
  • Relaxation of muscle tissue and relief of muscle spasms
  • Stimulation of nerve function
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Release of hormones that promote healing

These physiological responses explain why acupuncture can be effective for such a wide range of conditions. Rather than simply masking symptoms, acupuncture helps the body restore its natural balance and activate its inherent healing abilities.

Health Conditions That Respond to Acupuncture

Veterinary acupuncture has shown success in treating numerous conditions across different body systems. Some of the most common applications include:

Musculoskeletal Problems

For pets with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or intervertebral disc disease, acupuncture can provide significant pain relief and improved mobility. Many older pets who have become reluctant to climb stairs or go for walks show remarkable improvement after acupuncture treatments. This therapy works exceptionally well alongside other treatments like physical therapy and appropriate pain medication when needed.

Neurological Disorders

Acupuncture can help pets recovering from strokes or those with nerve injuries, seizure disorders, or degenerative neurological conditions. By improving nerve function and blood flow to the brain and spinal cord, acupuncture may help restore lost function or prevent further deterioration.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Chronic digestive problems like inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea, or constipation often respond well to acupuncture. The treatment helps regulate digestive function and reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Respiratory Conditions

Pets with asthma, allergic bronchitis, or other respiratory issues may breathe easier after acupuncture treatments. The therapy helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and can complement conventional treatments.

Behavioral Problems and Anxiety

For pets struggling with anxiety, stress, or certain behavioral issues, acupuncture can have a calming effect by stimulating the release of natural relaxation hormones. This application is particularly valuable as it offers a drug-free approach to managing these challenging conditions.

What to Expect During a Veterinary Acupuncture Session

If you’re considering acupuncture for your pet, knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns. A typical veterinary acupuncture session at Mountain View Animal Hospital follows these steps:

First, we conduct a thorough examination to determine if acupuncture is appropriate for your pet’s condition. This assessment helps us develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs. During the actual treatment, your pet will relax comfortably while our veterinarian gently places tiny needles at selected acupuncture points.

The needles typically remain in place for 15-30 minutes while you stay with your pet for reassurance. Many animals become noticeably relaxed during this time. After the session, some pets may show immediate improvement, while others develop more gradual benefits over subsequent treatments. For chronic conditions, a series of treatments is usually recommended to achieve optimal results.

Experience the Benefits of Veterinary Acupuncture

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we believe in providing pets with every opportunity to heal and thrive. Our integrative approach combines the best of traditional veterinary medicine with effective complementary therapies like acupuncture, giving your pet the most comprehensive care possible.

Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care has been voted Best of Northern Nevada year over year and is recognized as one of the Top 500 animal hospitals nationally by Newsweek. Our AAHA-accredited facility employs veterinarians specially trained in acupuncture and other holistic modalities, ensuring your pet receives the highest standard of care in all treatments. To learn if acupuncture might benefit your pet or to schedule a consultation, please call us at (775) 853-6900 or complete our contact form.