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Pet Acupuncture

At Cascade Animal Clinic, we provide a range of natural and alternative therapies for their health and happiness.

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Veterinary Services

Pet Acupuncture in Springfield, OR

ANCIENT CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is defined as the stimulation of a specific point on the body with a particular method, resulting in a therapeutic homeostatic effect.

The specific point on the body is called “Shu-xu” or acupuncture point (acupoint). The ancient Chinese people discovered 361 acupoints in human beings and 173 acupoints in animals.

Modern research shows that acupoints are located in areas with a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles, and lymphatic vessels. Most acupoints are motor points.

Many studies indicate that acupoint stimulation induces the release of beta-endorphin, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters. Therefore, acupuncture for pain relief is well supported by scientific studies.

Vital Energy, or Qi

The ancient Chinese discovered that the health of the body depends on the state of Qi (pronounced chee). Qi is the life force or vital energy. There are two opposite forms of Qi: Yin and Yang.

Physiologically, Qi flows throughout the body 24 hours daily, maintaining a balance of Yin and Yang. When the Qi flow is interrupted by any pathological factor (such as a virus or bacteria), the balance of Yin and Yang will be lost, and consequently, a disease may occur.

Pain is interpreted as the blockage of Qi flow (or no free flow of Qi). Acupuncture stimulation resolves this blockage, freeing the flow of Qi and enabling the body to heal itself. Homeostasis is restored when Yin and Yang Qi are in balance.

Pet Acupuncture

FAQ

What Is the History of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been practiced in both animals and humans for thousands of years in China. The earliest veterinary acupuncture book, “bo le Zhen jing” (Bole’s Canon of Veterinary Acupuncture), is believed to have been written by Dr. Bo Le in the Qinmu-gong period (659 B.C. to 621 B.C.). Veterinary treatment protocols using acupuncture were well documented in this textbook. Since then, acupuncture was and is still a part of the mainstream veterinary medical system in China.

What Are Acupuncture Methods and Goals?

Acupoints may be stimulated in a variety of ways. These techniques include dry needling, moxibustion, aqua-acupuncture, and electro-stimulation. Whichever method is used, the goal is the same: To restore the flow of Qi and allow homeostasis to return.

Can Acupuncture Be Used To Treat Sinus Issues?
Yes.
How Safe Is Acupuncture Therapy?
Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner. Very few side effects have been found in clinical cases.
How Long Does Each Treatment Take?
Each session may take 20 to 60 minutes.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
It depends upon the nature, severity, and duration of diseases. A single treatment may be enough for an acute condition. A series of 3 to 10 treatments can resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may need monthly treatments over time.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Proper acupuncture therapy may induce distention and a heaviness sensation along with contraction of local muscle. Over 95% of patients are comfortable with acupuncture therapy. Some animals will fall asleep during acupuncture treatment. Sedation is not recommended before acupuncture treatment as it may interfere with the acupuncture effect.
What Physiological Effects Are Induced By Acupuncture?

Numerous studies show that acupuncture stimulation induces these physiological effects:

  • Pain Relief
  • Regulation of gastrointestinal motility
  • Anti-inflammatory effect
  • Immuno-regulation
  • Hormone and reproductive regulation
  • Anti-febrile effect; microcirulation promotion
When Is Acupuncture Indicated?

Clinical trials indicate that acupuncture therapy can be useful in the following conditions:

  • Musculoskeletal problems: muscle soreness, back pain, disc problems, osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease.
  • Neurological disorder: seizure, laryngeal hemiplegia, facial, and radial nerve paralysis.
  • Gastrointestinal disorders: diarrhea, gastric ulcers, colic, vomiting, constipation, and impaction.
  • Other chronic conditions: anhidrosis, heaves, asthma, cough, uveitis, behavioral problems, Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, infertility, hyperthyroidism, renal failure, geriatric weakness, skin problems.
  • Performance enhancement and prevention of disease.
  • Cautions and Contraindications
  • When acupuncture is performed, the following conditions are cautioned or contraindicated:
  • Fracture
  • Pregnancy
  • Open Wound
  • Infectious Diseases
Why Is Acupuncture Frequently Combined With Herbs?
Sometimes the application of Chinese Herbal Medicine is chosen by the knowledgeable veterinarian as a support for the acupuncture, or on occasion, instead of it. Herbs are frequently used in situations that have not responded to traditional Western veterinary medical practices.
What About Chiropractic And Massage?
The veterinarian may also choose to use Tui-na, an ancient Chinese method of chiropractic/medical manipulation that enhances the other techniques and can be taught to the animal owner to be done at home. This helps move energy past blocked points and eases muscle tension, thereby offering comfort and an energy lift to the patient.

ACUPUNCTURE IS PROVIDED EXCLUSIVELY BY DR. KELLI ROSEN AT CASCADE ANIMAL CLINIC

(Some information on this page was provided by the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine brochure)

Veterinary Services in Springfield, OR

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