FAQs About Pet Acupuncture
At Branchburg Animal Hospital we know just how vital a pets' well-being is to pet owners. As your local veterinarian in Branchburg, we offer your pet the best traditional medical treatment to help make sure they live a long and healthy life. Sometimes, traditional medicine needs to be supplemented with non-traditional medicine such as in the case of pet acupuncture. Below we answer pet owners' most frequently asked questions about pet acupuncture.
What is pet acupuncture?
Pet acupuncture is the same process that is used to treat humans. It is a Chinese medicine that uses needles to help promote healing. The needles are inserted into specific points of the body, to push the body's energy into other areas.
What type of ailments is acupuncture used to treat?
Acupuncture has been shown to effectively treat a wide range of both medical and behavioral issues in pets. Here is a partial list of the types of ailments acupuncture can be used to treat.
- Arthritis
- Seizures
- Back pain
- Skin infections
- Behavior issues
Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with traditional medicine for ailments. For example, acupuncture can help pets handle the side effects that come with chemotherapy when dealing with cancer.
Is acupuncture safe for my pet?
Yes, there should be very little concern for your pets' safety when acupuncture is done by a qualified veterinarian. Studies have shown there are little to no side effects in most pets.
How many acupuncture sessions will be needed?
The number of sessions a pet will need will depend on the nature of the ailments we are treating. In some instances, it will only take one session to resolve the issue. For chronic problems, your pet may need between three and ten treatments.
How will my pet react to the needles?
Of course, the reaction of the needles will depend on your pets' stress levels; however, most pets just acknowledge the needle by looking at it as it is inserted. Most pets will start to relax 15 minutes into the session.
Does acupuncture hurt my pet?
No acupuncture is not a painful procedure for pets. While your pet will feel the needle being inserted, it does not hurt, and most pets even fall asleep during the session.
Can my pet eat or exercise before its first session?
Typically, we recommend your pet not exercise at least one hour before the appointment. However, your pet can be exercised right after the appointment. We also ask that your pet not eat within one hour of the appointment.
Pet Acupuncture in Branchburg
Branchburg Animal Hospital proudly serves the Branchburg community and the surrounding area. If you would like to learn more about how acupuncture can help your pet, reach out to our veterinarians today at (908) 707-0045.