Meriden Animal Hospital Offers Acupuncture For Animals

Animals may experience a number of health problems that can cause troublesome symptoms and pain. Acupuncture is becoming a more common practice because it helps to relieve symptoms, without side effects and does not interfere with other medications that may be administered. At Meriden Animal Hospital in Meridan, KS offers acupuncture for veterinary care.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Asian health practice that uses very fine needles inserted into special points of the body to block pain signals and stimulate natural chemicals. Research indicates that the method can be used to help relieve painful conditions and improve a wide range of health problems. Most people have heard about its use in humans, but it can also be utilized for veterinary care of animals. Acupuncture offers benefits that are free of side effects and can be used along with standard veterinary treatments.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture appears to work through a number of different mechanisms in the body. First, the insertion of the fine needles disrupts the transmission of pain signals, reducing discomfort. Secondly, the needles inserted into tissue triggers the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals. Finally, the insertion of the needles appears to relax muscles in the area, and even at distant points in the body, to reduce anxiety and the sensation of pain.

What Conditions Can Acupuncture Help?

Veterinarians trained in acupuncture can use the method to help spinal disc problems, arthritis, and traumatic nerve injury. It can help respiratory conditions, such as feline asthma. Skin problems, such as allergic dermatitis and lick granuloma, can be relieved. Veterinarians may use acupuncture in large animals, like horses, to help facial paralysis, gastrointestinal problems, and reproductive issues.

What Happens During Acupuncture for Animals?

The veterinarian must make a diagnosis of the health problem and determine the points of the body that are related to the condition. Then, the acupuncture needles are inserted into these points and are left in place for a period of time. Insertion of the needles generally does not cause pain, and animals often find the process very relaxing. After the appropriate period of time, the needles are removed, and the animal experiences a reduction in symptoms.

Make Meriden Animal Hospital Your Veterinarian in Meriden

Dr. Jeff Van Petten utilizes his extensive training in veterinary medicine to help his patients in Meriden, KS enjoy better health at every stage of life. We offer examinations, preventive care, diagnostics, surgery, laser therapy, and emergency care. Call Meriden Animal Hospital today at 785-484-3358 for an appointment to learn about our services and about the use of acupuncture to manage veterinary conditions.