Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of very small needles into specific points or meridians on the body. It is one part of a 3,000 year old system of Traditional Chinese Medicine believe that life force, or qi (pronounced chee) moves through the body along specific pathways. This energy can be improved or altered though the influence of acupuncture. Our more familiar western medicine can explain some of the benefit of acupuncture by its effect on nerves, hormones and other chemicals in the body.

Acupuncture can be used to treat a vast number of conditions, including musculoskeletal diseases, nerve disorders, allergies, seizures, cancer, organ dysfunction and more.

The benefits of acupuncture are far reaching, and many owner report improvements in appetite and energy, as well as a decrease in chronic pain. Acupuncture can improve immune function and boost overall health.

Acupuncture needles differ greatly from hypodermic needles used to draw blood in that acupuncture needles are very fine, and have blunt tip. Because they do not cut into the skin, they are placed with little or no discomfort - most often, our pets feel only pressure locally.

The number of needles used for a treatment depends on the condition being treated and the patient's physical examination for the day. They are typically left in place for ten to twenty minutes. It's not necessary for pets to stay still while receiving an acupuncture treatment! Many dogs and cats walk calmly around the room, sit or lay down!

In some cases, because of a complicating medical condition or simply a preference by the patient, Dr. Sivula uses a specialized laser to stimulate acupuncture points instead of needles. It allows him to use points that would be too sensitive if stimulated by a needle.

Acupuncture is often administered on a weekly basis for a series of six visits. It takes time for the treatment to build up an effect in your pet's body, so undertaking an acupuncture regimen requires commitment on your part. We must give these treatments time to work! The positive effects of this therapy may not be seen after one visit alone, but the benefits will increase and last longer after subsequent visits.