The use of acupuncture dates back to ancient times with treatments being performed on animals both small and large. Generally used alongside Western medicine, it can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions in pets.
Common conditions Acupuncture is indicated
Arthritis, IVDD, Nerve Injury, Allergies, Asthma, Anxiety/ Calming, Gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea *Not a complete list of all applications for acupuncture*
How does Acupuncture work?
“In western medical terms, acupuncture can assist the body to heal itself by affecting certain physiological changes. For example, acupuncture can stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasm, and cause the release of hormones, such as endorphins (one of the body’s pain control chemicals) and cortisol (a natural steroid). “ International Veterinary Acupuncture Society https://www.ivas.org/about-ivas/what-is-veterinary-acupuncture/
How is Acupuncture performed?
Before scheduling acupuncture, your pet must have a consultation with a veterinarian at QCVC to discuss your pet’s diagnosis and determine if acupuncture is right for your pet. If acupuncture is part of your pet’s treatment plan, as determined by their veterinarian, then we will assist in scheduling acupuncture. The day of your pet’s acupuncture appointment, you and your pet will be placed in a private exam room with a licensed acupuncturist, Robert “Kirby” Woods, LAc. A technician will take a vitals (TPR required) to evaluate your pet’s health day of and then your pet can lay on a comfy bed or blanket to feel at ease before the acupuncture begins.
The first acupuncture appointment, we ask that owners plan to stay with their pet. Kirby will want to meet you to discuss your pet’s condition and explain the acupuncture process. Whether an owner stays with their pet throughout the treatment or leaves after their discussion with Kirby, will depend on the owner’s comfort level, and the pet’s comfort level and behavior. Follow up acupuncture appointments may be scheduled as drop off’s if an owner prefers.
Kirby will place needles in specific points in your pet’s body to produce a healing response to achieve the desired outcomes. The needles stay placed for 10-30 minutes before they are removed. Different conditions and each pet’s personal response to treatment will dictate the number of sessions needed.
Generally, pets handle the needle placement without much discomfort. If your pet is especially anxious, aggressive or painful a mild sedative may be prescribed before the acupuncture session begins.
Requirements for Acupuncture
Annual exam performed at Queen Creek Veterinary Clinic, with acupuncture determined to be a part of the pet’s ongoing treatment plan.
Rabies vaccination current unless medically waived by veterinarian
Robert “Kirby” Woods LA
Kirby started his path in Chinese Medicine in 2010, after transitioning from a career as an environmental chemist. He has a passion for Chinese herbs and helping others to achieve their health goals. Kirby graduated from the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture (PIHMA) in 2014 and worked as the Medicinary Manager in the Phoenix Medicinary at PIHMA from 2015 to 2016. Kirby has continuously pursued a deeper understanding of Chinese Medicine in a modern application and is currently expanding his knowledge of Chinese medicine into the world of animals. His wife, Michelle, is an amazing veterinary technician and the reason Kirby has begun exploring acupuncture for animals.
