Cat & Dog Acupuncture in Carmel, IN
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves placing thin, sterile needles at specific points on your pet’s body to stimulate healing. At Carmel Veterinary Clinic, our team uses acupuncture as a complementary therapy to help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness for cats and dogs.
To learn more about our cat and dog acupuncture services, give us a call at (317) 846-5707 or book online below!
How Pet Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture stimulates nerve endings, boosts circulation, and encourages the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms. Each acupuncture point corresponds to different areas and systems in the body, influencing nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. The insertion of needles triggers the release of endorphins and increases blood flow, helping your pet’s body repair and function more effectively.
Conditions Treated with Acupuncture
Acupuncture is known for its versatility in addressing a wide range of conditions, including:
- Pain and Arthritis Relief: A non-invasive therapy, acupuncture is great for managing chronic pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, and general joint issues.
- Neurological Disorders Acupuncture supports pets with nerve-related issues, such as intervertebral disc disease, paralysis, or weakness.
- Digestive Concerns: Regular acupuncture sessions help pets with gastrointestinal issues like chronic vomiting, constipation, and irritable bowel disease.
- Skin Conditions: Acupuncture can be beneficial for allergic dermatitis, hotspots, and other chronic skin irritations.
- Respiratory Issues: Often effective for pets with asthma or chronic bronchitis, acupuncture helps reduce inflammation and open airways.
- Urinary Disorders: Acupuncture supports urinary health for conditions like incontinence or recurring urinary tract infections.
Acupuncture can be safely combined with other treatments like medications or physical therapy to provide a more comprehensive approach to care.
What Pet Owners Can Expect During Acupuncture Sessions
During a typical acupuncture session, our veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s health history, symptoms, and individual needs to develop a tailored treatment plan. Here’s what you can expect:
- Needle Placement: Very thin needles are gently placed in targeted acupuncture points. Most pets find the process relaxing, with many even falling asleep during the session.
- Treatment Duration: Each session lasts around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your pet’s needs. Follow-up treatments are usually recommended to maximize benefits, which may be weekly or biweekly at first, then spaced out as improvements are observed.
- Possible Effects: Some pets may experience immediate improvement, while others may need a few sessions to feel the full effects. Mild fatigue or a slight worsening of symptoms is common following treatment, as your pet’s body adjusts and responds.
Is Acupuncture Right for Your Pet?
Acupuncture provides a gentle, drug-free option for pets needing pain relief or chronic condition management. It’s particularly beneficial for aging pets, those with mobility issues, or pets undergoing postoperative recovery.
For more information or to see if acupuncture could benefit your dog or cat, please contact our team at Carmel Veterinary Clinic to schedule a consultation. We're here to support your pet’s journey to comfort and better health!