What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the treatment of diseases or symptoms by the insertion of very small needles into specific points on the body. Related techniques can be acupressure, cupping, electroacupuncture, and aquapuncture. We offer acupuncture at Local Mobile Vet, and we can also use our therapy laser to stimulate points without the use of a needle.

Specific acupuncture points have been charted for both humans and animals, and were originally conceptualized by Chinese scholars 7000 years ago to be connected with each other and various internal organs via meridians or channels. Many of these channels trace the paths of the body's major nerve trunks.

Each acupuncture point has specific actions when stimulated. Combinations of points are often stimulated for synergistic reactions between them. Which acupuncture points are stimulated, the depth of needle insertion, the type of stimulation applied to the needles, and the duration of each treatment session depends on the patient's tolerance, the patient’s pre-existing conditions, and the condition being treated.

With most acupuncture treatments, multiple acupuncture points are stimulated at the same time, taking advantage of the interactive response to stimulation.

There are published studies on acupuncture in France, Austria, China, Belgium, Australia, Taiwan, and the United States.

Acupuncture can be used on all species of animals, and has documented efficacy on a wide range of species, including elephants, cattle, horses, dogs, cats, monkeys, and rabbits. However, Dr. Ashleigh Caplin has only been trained in horses, cats, and dogs specifically.

Can my pet get acupuncture?

Most animals tolerate acupuncture treatments very well, but it is not for every individual. Animals that are very fearful or stressed by needles or restraint may not be the best candidates for acupuncture and may do better with acupressure, aquapuncture, or laser therapy. We encourage distracting pets with treats during acupuncture to increase acceptance of the needles.

What is an acupuncture session like?

On your pet’s first acupuncture treatment with Dr. Caplin, your pet will receive a full examination, including chinese medicine examination before treatment begins. You will discuss or review your pet’s current condition and any medication or supplements that your pet is taking, so it is good to have those nearby or written out for the veterinarian to ensure that none are missed. Acupuncture is contraindicated with some products so this is an important step.

The treatment session itself will be approximately 20-30 minutes, during which time your pet should remain calm and still. We encourage you to provide your pet’s favorite treat to aid in keeping them still for their treatment session. Frozen canned foods or filled kongs can work well as a distraction during treatment.

Depending on your pet’s needs and temperament, Dr. Caplin will place needles and allow those to stay in place for a time. Dr. Caplin may recommend other specific procedures to be used during this time or after removing the needles.

Some animals are relaxed after acupuncture, others are excited due to having a visitor in their home.

Who can perform pet acupuncture?

Because of the differences in anatomy, and the potential for harm if the treatments are done incorrectly, only a properly trained veterinarian should perform acupuncture on animals.

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association both consider the practice of acupuncture to be the practice of veterinary medicine, and as such, should only be performed by a licensed veterinarian. Dr Caplin was trained at the Chi Institute and has passed the examination for certification in pet acupuncture for dogs, cats, and horses.

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

In veterinary medicine, there is evidence of the success of acupuncture for treating disorders of the reproductive, musculoskeletal, neurologic, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and dermatologic systems. The most common conditions that are treated include traumatic nerve injuries, intervertebral disk disease, degenerative myelopathy, and chronic pain such as that caused by degenerative joint disease/arthritis, but any disease can be treated with acupuncture.

Acupuncture stimulates healing of some conditions, and provides effective pain relief in others. Following surgery, it can improve the patients' comfort level and speed up the postoperative recovery period. In some cases, it may reduce or eliminate the need for chronic medication.

The earlier in the course of disease that acupuncture is started and the more numerous and frequent the treatments, the better the response tends to be. If a disease has been present for more than a year, the likelihood of acupuncture helping significantly on its own is low. As a very rough guide, about one quarter of patients show major improvement, about half show significant improvement but still have some symptoms, and about one quarter show little or no benefit.

Are there risks?

Adverse reactions are rare, but may occur. Such reactions may include mild transient bruising or swelling at the needle insertion site; a mild worsening of the condition for a short time (usually 24 to 48 hours); difficulty removing needles because of muscle spasm; injury to an underlying tissue or organ; and infection at the needle site. Certain acupuncture points are contraindicated in pregnant animals.

Caution is exercised if certain drugs such as narcotics or corticosteroids are being used, or if the animal has a clotting disorder, therefore, it is important that the acupuncturist is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is taking.

How do I get my pet scheduled?

If your pet is an existing patient of Local Mobile Vet, simply fill out the appointment request form, and we will reach out to get you on Dr. Ashleigh’s Schedule.

If we have never seen your pet before, fill out the New Client Form and we will reach out to help you determine if we are the right fit for you and your pet. We may need records from your previous vet or to have an appointment to establish care before we can determine if acupuncture is appropriate at this time.