Acupuncture And Your Pet

The use of alternative therapies such as acupuncture can assist us in keeping our pets happy and healthy.

It's often said that keeping an open mind is one of the best ways to stay youthful! Swanbourne Veterinary Centre is over sixty and while we embrace new scientific developments and advances in veterinary medicine, we remain open minded and don't ignore the wide range of alternative therapies.

New Age Pets?
Acupuncture is often thought of as a 'new age' product but it's actually a form of healing that is over four thousand years old. While in Australia its use has been mainly restricted to humans, in China it has always been used for treating pets as well. In fact, acupuncture is still the treatment of choice for over one quarter of the world's population.

How Does It Work?
Acupuncture works through the central nervous system, stimulating the body's natural pain killing hormones or endorphins. It is usually performed with very fine, sterilised needles and although there is a brief moment of sensitivity once the needles are in place most animals relax - some even fall asleep.

What Conditions Respond To Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is mainly used when medications are not working or when surgery is not feasible. It is most commonly used for:

• muscle and bone problems such as hip dysplasia
• skin problems
• nerve disorders
• respiratory problems

It is usually only useful when used in conjunction with modern medicine.

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