Sycamore Veterinary Services is pleased to provide you with the option of acupuncture therapy. Dr. Fields has received her certification through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, and is happy to develop an appropriate program for your pet.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the stimulation of a point, referred to as an acupoint, by pressure, a needle, an electric current, or even by injection. These points respond by affecting blood flow, opioid release, and by sending signals to the nervous system that control the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves. By stimulating certain points, the body can be affected and diseases can be treated. Acupuncture is a non-invasive way to treat many diseases, especially diseases that traditional therapies have failed to correct or improve.
Stick needles in my pet? Won't that hurt?
Acupuncture needles are much smaller in diameter than needles typically used for injection. Typically needle diameters are only 0.16 mm to 0.25 mm. Most animals respond only minimally or not at all to needle insertion. It is not unusual for the animal to rest comfortably, often laying down, during the entire treatment.
How can I expect my pet to act after receiving acupuncture?
Most pets will not seem any different after an acupuncture treatment. Some pets may sleep a lot for the first 24 hours after the session.
What kinds of problems can be treated with acupuncture?
All kinds of problems! Here are a few commonly treated maladies:
Skin disease Lung disease
Kidney disease Vomiting/Diarrhea
Back pain/paralysis Chronic pain
Seizures Liver disease
Arthritis Gingivitis/stomatitis in cats
Who can provide acupuncture treatment?
Any veterinarian can legally provide acupuncture treatment. However, most veterinarians do not receive acupuncture training in vet school, and must take additional courses to learn this therapy. There are only 3 certification courses offered in the United States for veterinary acupuncture. Dr. Fields is certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society.
I would like to use more natural means to treat my pet. Can Sycamore Veterinary Services help me do this?
Yes! We would love to help you care for your pet! The doctors at Sycamore have a special intereest in nutrition, supplements, and herbal prescriptions. Because supplements and herbals are not as closely regulated as drugs, there is a huge variation in quality in these products. We would be happy to work closely with you to help you discover how to choose supplements that will best optimize your pet's health.