At Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital, we offer a wide variety of medicinal techniques to supplement our other rehabilitative therapies including acupuncture, nutritional supplements and medicinal herbs.
Eastern Medicine & Acupuncture for Healing Support
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is one of many methods used to promote the natural healing process alongside nutritional supplements and healing herbs. These techniques encourage and support your pet's natural healing process, supporting the Western medical treatments we offer.
These medical techniques and treatments can help aide in the treatment of an array of medical illnesses as well as manage chronic and painful conditions to improve your pet’s quality of life.
At Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital, we feel that we can obtain the best results by using these treatments as a supplement to medical therapy to help restore your pet's health and vitality.
The Acupuncture Technique
This ancient form of medicine is based on the philosophy that illness is caused by an imbalance of vital energies in the body. In modern terms, acupuncture can help by improving blood flow, which boosts oxygenation in tissues.
Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into an animal's body at precise points called meridians, where the blood vessels converge with the nerves. The needles help guide vital energy along these meridians, supporting the nervous system and promoting circulation while enhancing the body's healing abilities.
Our Acupuncturist works closely with your pet’s doctor, ensuring the best possible treatment plan for their condition.
Common Uses For Eastern Medicine & Acupuncture
Our vets often recommend the use of acupuncture or other types of Chinese medicine for a number of issues, including:
- Pain Management
Medical treatments like chemotherapy can be uncomfortable for your pet. They will often be combined with acupuncture in an effort to help relieve your pet's discomfort. This will also help your pet fight their illness.
- Musculoskeletal Issues
Acupuncture and other eastern medicinal treatments can be used to help with injury rehabilitation. Conditions such as arthritis, nerve injuries and hip dysplasia also tend to respond well to acupuncture.
- Dermatology & Skin Issues
These treatments can help to encourage blood flow, which can help with a variety of common skin issues such as allergic dermatitis, hot spots and granulomas. They can help improve healing from these conditions and lead to less discomfort and over-grooming.
- Gastrointestinal Issues
Eastern medicinal techniques like acupuncture can stimulate digestive secretions, promoting a healthy gut and digestive activity. Diarrhea and nausea can also benefit from these treatments.
- Respiratory Issues
The immune-calming and anti-inflammatory capabilities of acupuncture treatment can improve asthma, allergies and other conditions.
The Benefits
Acupuncture for pets provides a number of benefits, including:
- Promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues
- Pets in poor health will benefit from the lack of systemic side effects
- Lowers the amount of waste products produced
- Helps relax muscles and relieve pain
- Improves metabolic waste removal from the body