Most of us have asked a naturopath for advice, grabbed some herbs from a herbalist or tried bowen therapy for a dodgy knee, but did you know dogs can also benefit from a dose alternate therapy?
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat an array of human ailments, from arthritis to menopause systems, to back pain and hayfever. But this ancient form of healing can also be used on pets.
There are many vets who offer alternate therapies and acupuncture is fast becoming an acceptable form of treatment. Acupuncture is traditionally used to help the flow of energy in the body, thus leading to healing. It can provide quick pain relief as it acts on the brain’s neurotransmitters, and releases endorphins that make the patient feel much better.
If your pet is experiencing arthritic pain, muscle or joint problems, he may respond well to acupuncture. The therapy can also treat a range of other conditions such as urinary tract problems, respiratory conditions, skin disease, cardiovascular disease and reproductive issues.
That’s not to say you should ditch your vet and go completely alternate. In fact, acupuncture works well when used along with western medicine, and many vets are seeing the benefits of embracing this ancient healing method.
While many humans baulk at the idea of thin sharp needles being pressed into the body, acupuncture needles are so fine and sharp often the dog doesn’t feel a thing.
If you’d like to find out more, just ask your vet next time you have your pooch at the clinic for a check-up.
