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5 Health Benefits of Acupuncture for Dogs

5 Health Benefits of Acupuncture for Dogs

When it comes to therapeutic treatment for dogs, acupuncture can be extremely useful, but many pet owners are unsure of the treatment. Here, our Oceanside vets share five benefits of acupuncture for dogs, and how it can benefit your pup.

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years as part of traditional Chinese medicinal practices to provide therapeutic treatment to the body. Every year, more and more domestic animals receive this therapy with the results speaking for themselves. As a result, a growing number of dog owners are experimenting with acupuncture. 

Are you curious about how acupuncture may be able to benefit your dog? In this blog post, we will list several advantages that acupuncture may have for your dog. 

Acupuncture for Oceanside Dogs

Acupuncture has been used successfully on a variety of different animal species, including cats, dogs, rabbits, and horses. Your Oceanside veterinarian will be able to inform you whether acupuncture is a suitable therapy option for your specific circumstances.

Since the needles used in acupuncture are so small, most pets don't require pain treatments or sedation to endure an acupuncture session. 

How Many Sessions Your Dog May Need

Since every pet is unique and has distinct reasons for seeking acupuncture therapy, the number of sessions that are required to treat your pet will vary. Your veterinarian can give you an estimate of how many sessions will benefit your pet, but it's important to remember that this may change as the treatment progresses. 

How Acupuncture Can Benefit Your Dog

Here is a list of reasons why acupuncture can help your dog.

1. Pain Management & Relief

Acupuncture has been demonstrated to trigger your dog's body's natural pain relievers - endorphins and other anti-inflammatory chemicals, which can aid in the relief of chronic pain. Strong medical treatments like chemotherapy can be painful and, because of that, are frequently combined with acupuncture to help make a pet more comfortable. Acupuncture can also help with chronic inflammatory disorders such as arthritis. 

2. Improved Digestive Function

Acupuncture may aid in the normalization of digestive activity by stimulating digestive secretions and increasing blood flow to the body. Acupuncture's enhanced blood flow can help with gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and nausea.

3. Improved Respiratory Function

Acupuncture can benefit pets suffering from respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies. Acupuncture has demonstrated immune-system calming characteristics, as well as the ability to treat animals with breathing problems. Acupuncture's immune-calming and anti-inflammatory properties assist dogs as well.

4. Promotes Healing

The insertion of needles into the body at pre-determined meridians is thought to boost blood flow, which is critical for healing and can actually speed up the process. It can also stimulate your pet's natural waste disposal mechanisms, which assist in the removal of all poisons and waste from their body. 

5. Can Aid in Skin Problems

Acupuncture is a popular treatment for dogs who have skin issues such as allergic dermatitis, granulomas, or hot spots. The increased circulation can promote healing.

Bonus: Can Help With Musculoskeletal Issues

Acupuncture can help with musculoskeletal issues such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and nerve damage. It is frequently used during injury rehabilitation.

Wondering if your dog could benefit from acupuncture? Contact our Oceanside vets to book a consultation.

Now Welcoming New Patients

Oceanside Veterinary Hospital is accepting new patients! Our compassionate vets can provide the cats and dogs of Oceanside with the quality healthcare they deserve. Contact us today to schedule your pet's first appointment.

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