Why use acupuncture?
Animals live longer these days with better veterinary care and nutrition and many of these geriatric patients suffer from degenerative diseases which can give rise to chronic pain, a lowered immune system and decreased organ function. They often struggle to tolerate conventional drugs in the same way they did when younger and healthier and can benefit from the effects of acupuncture to improve their quality of life.
This is not to say that acupuncture is only for chronic cases. Sudden, acute pain will usually respond very well to acupuncture treatment but can in many cases satisfactorily be treated with medication by your usual vet, provided your pet does not suffer from a known intolerance to painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Many animals with chronic pain issues are in spite of their medication. still in a fair amount of pain. It is important to recognize if your pet is experiencing more than just discomfort; clues could be a change in behaviour, for example not getting up to greet you when you come home, not interested to go upstairs any more or unwilling to jump into the car, generally losing interest in life or even going off his food . Acupuncture can frequently stop the suffering element in those patients and extend their life span.
By using acupuncture we may also be able to avoid using “last resort drugs” or reduce the amount of medication given and thereby minimize unwanted side effects.
