Alternative Medicine

I remember when I was growing up, our dog(s) and cat(s) if we could find them, would go to the rabies clinic held at the fire station once a year. That was their vet care. Today, we have many options to consider when choosing care for our pets. One choice I’ve made for my dogs is acupuncture.

According to Wikipedia, Acupuncture is an alternative medicine methodology originating in ancient China that treats patients by manipulating thin, solid needles that have been inserted into acupuncture points in the skin.

Humans have been practicing its use for thousands of years. But research has shown that our pets can benefit from acupuncture as well. Acupuncture can help with many canine health issues such as allergies, cancer therapy, recurring urinary infections, arthritis and hip dysplasia and many other canine problems.

My dog Onyx has been receiving acupuncture treatments for arthritis in her spine for several months now.  The first session was both scary and intriguing. I had no idea how she would react to someone putting tiny needles in her.  She did amazing! 

Here are a few pictures of my baby girl during a treatment. The needles are black, so they are a little hard to see. The wires attached send tiny electrodes to certain points to add stimulation.

 

The day following her first treatment, Onyx was visibly sore and very reluctant to do much at all. Day two was better, and on the 3^rd morning after her treatment, she was the first dog off the porch and led the way on our morning walk!  What a wonderful sight to see!

Onyx now waits by the door every morning, hoping it is “her” day. When she does have an appointment for acupuncture, she cannot wait to get in the office. After a very happy greeting to the girls at the front desk and then to Dr. Toolan, she settles herself on the blanket that had already been set out for her and awaits her treatment.

Onyx will be 12 years old next month. She had always been a very active and athletic dog. Over the past few years, we noticed her become less and less active and more reluctant to go up and down stairs. Before she started acupuncture, most of my walks were spent trying to coax her to come along. Now, she has once again claimed her position in the front of the pack and will even give chase to a  squirrel! I don’t expect her to hike for hours like we used to, but it sure is great to see her enjoying our daily walks again!

Shooby has also started to receive acupuncture treatments. I will have more details on him soon!