Acupuncture Therapy for Small Animals

Acupuncture has become an accepted medical therapy that benefits humans and animals. Today, Western medicine is still our primary type of health care. Sometimes, however, our Western knowledge and medicine has its limitations. Acupuncture is a type of treatment that takes a different approach and has been a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. It involves stimulating your pet's energy to help give the body strength to heal or a release from pain. The energy is stimulated using tiny needles at precise locations on the body. Most dogs and cats seem very relaxed during treatment and tolerate it very well.

Conditions Treated by Acupuncture

 
Musculoskeletal Problems: Hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, inteveretebral disc disease 
Neurologic Problems: Epilepsy, Stroke, Peripheral Nerve Paralysis 
Dermatologic Problems: Lick granulomas, allergic dermatitis 
Gastrointestinal Problems: Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Constipation 
Respiratory Problems: Asthma, chronic bronchitis 
Immune Diseases 
Urinary Disorders 

What is Meant by Acupuncture Therapy

Usually a single treatment does not result in an instant cure.   A commitment of 4-8 weekly sessions is recommended.   The effects are cumulative and can affect one pet in the first few treatments, while another pet needs more.   Treatments are tapered off(once a good response is seen) to monthly or quarterly treatments as needed.   You should be well in tune with your pet's daily routine and behavior to see if he/she is feeling better.

Qualifications to Administer Acupuncture

Dr. Edward Leonard is a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and has been a clinician at Slade Veterinary Hospital since 1998.  He completed his acupuncture training at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine and is a member of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture.  Dr. Leonard has passed the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society examination, and is a Chi Institute and the China National Society of TCVM Certified Veterinary Tui-na (Traditional Healing Massage) Practitioner.  After your veterinarian has determined  that acupuncture is an option for your pet, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Leonard at Slade Veterinary Hospital.

 

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