What is acupuncture for dogs?
Veterinary acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the dog's body to stimulate healing and improve overall well-being. It is based on traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for centuries in humans and animals alike.
While many dogs respond positively to acupuncture, some may display adverse reactions.
Reasons Your Dog's Symptoms Might Be Worse After Acupuncture
After acupuncture, dogs may experience a temporary worsening of symptoms for up to 48 hours, and some might become sleepy or lethargic for 24 hours afterward. These effects could be due to:
- Healing Crisis: Sometimes, dogs experience a temporary worsening of symptoms after acupuncture. This is known as a healing crisis and can be a sign that the treatment is working. This is because the body is clearing out toxins and restoring balance. This phase usually lasts for a few days before improvement is seen.
- Overstimulation: Some dogs may be more sensitive to acupuncture needles, especially when placed in highly reactive points. This can cause temporary discomfort or even exacerbate symptoms initially, such as muscle spasms or twitching.
- Undiagnosed Issues: If your dog has an underlying health condition that has yet to be diagnosed, acupuncture might bring these issues (such as arthritis) to the surface. This can make it seem like the treatment is making your dog worse when, in fact, it’s highlighting problems that need to be addressed.
- Practitioner Skill Level: The skill and experience of the veterinarian performing the treatment play a critical role in the effectiveness of acupuncture. Inexperienced practitioners may not place the needles correctly, leading to ineffective or even harmful treatments.
What should you do if your dog gets worse after acupuncture?
After each acupuncture session, it's important to document any changes in your dog's condition. Note both improvements and any worsening of symptoms. This information will be valuable when discussing your concerns with the veterinarian.
If your dog experiences significant discomfort or a severe worsening of symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away. They can assess whether the reaction is within the normal range or if there is cause for concern. You can discuss with your veterinarian the possibility of adjusting the acupuncture points or the frequency of treatments. Sometimes, a different approach or a less intense treatment schedule can prevent adverse reactions.
If acupuncture continues to cause problems for your dog, consider other complementary therapies such as chiropractic care, cold laser therapy, or herbal medicine. Your veterinarian can guide you on the best alternatives for your dog's specific condition.
How often should my dog receive acupuncture?
The veterinarian performing the procedure can determine the frequency of your dog's acupuncture sessions. Typically, sessions are scheduled more closely together at the beginning and then spaced out as the dog's condition improves.
For acute problems, such as post-surgery healing, only a few sessions may be needed. Chronic conditions, such as arthritis, may require ongoing treatment. It may take a few sessions to see improvements, but a minimum of three sessions is generally recommended to assess effectiveness.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
