Acupuncture for Pets

Dr. Bertolone, aside from bringing her fantastic personality and vast amounts of knowledge, has also brought Acupuncture to Hancock Park Vet Clinic. Below are a few FAQ's introducing you to this form of eastern medicine.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture may be defined as the stimulation of a specific point in the body with a specific method, resulting in a therapeutic homeostatic effect.  The specific point on the body is called "Shu-xu" or acupuncture point (acupoint). The ancient Chinese people discovered 361 acupoints in human beings and 173 acupoints in animals.

Modern research shows that acupoints are located in the areas where there is a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles and lymphatic vessels. Most acupoints are motor points. A great number of studies indicate that stimulation of acupoints induce release of beta-endorphin, serotonin and other neurotransmitters. Therefore, acupuncture for pain relief is well supported by these scientific studies. As more studies are conducted, the mechanism of this ancient therapy will be better understood.

Vital Eneergy or Qi

The ancient Chinese discovered that the health of the body depends on the state of Qi (pronounced Chee) Qi is ther life force or vital energy. There are two opposite forms of Qi: Yin & Yang. Physiologically, Qi flows throughout the body 24hours per day maintaining a balance of Yin and Yang. When the flow of Qi is interrupted by any pathological factor (such as virus or bacteria), the balance of Yin & Yang will be lost and consequently a disease may occur.

Pain is interpreted as the blockage of Qi flow (or no free flow of Qi). Acupuncture stimulation resolves this blockage, freeing the flow of Qi and enabling the body to heal itself. Homeostasis is restored when Yin & Yang Qi are in balance.

What is the History of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been practiced in both animals and human beings for thousands of years in China. The earliest veterinary acupuncture book "Bo Le Zhen Jing" (Bole's Canon of Veterinary Acupuncture) is believed to have been written by Dr. Bo Le in Qi-mu-gong period (659 B.C. to 621 B.C.). Veterinary treatment protocols using acupuncture were well documented in this textbook. Since then, acupuncture was and is still a part of the mainstream veterinary medical system in China.

What are the Acupuncture methods and goals?

Acupoints may be stimulated in a variety of ways. These techniques include dry needling, moxibustion, aqu-acupuncture and electro-stimulation. Whatever tools are used, the goal is always the same: to restore the flow of Qi and allow homeostasis to return.

How safe is acupuncture therapy?

Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner. Very few side effects have been found in clinical cases.

What physiological effects are induced by Acupuncture?

Numerous studies show that acupuncture stimulation induces these physiological effects:

- Pain relief

- Regulation of gastrointestinal motility

- Anti-Inflammatory effect

- Immuno- regulation

- Hormone and reproductive regulation

- Anti-febrile effect; microcirculation promotion

When is Acupuncture indicated?

Clinical trials indicate that the acupuncture therapy can be effective in the following conditions:

- Musculoskeletal problems: muscle soreness, back pain, disc problems, osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease.

- Neurological disorders: seizure, laryngeal hemiplegia, facial and radial nerve paralysis.

- Gastrointestinal disorders: diarrhea, gastric ulcers, colic, vomiting, constipation an impaction.

- Other chronic conditions: anhidrosis, heaves, asthma, cough, behavioral problems, cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, renal failure, geriatric weakness, skin problems.

- Performance enhancement and prevention of disease.

Why is Acupuncture frequently combined with herbs?

Sometimes the application of Chinese Herbal Medicine is chosen by the knowledgeable veterinarian as a support for the acupuncture, or on occasion, in lieu of it. Herbs are frequently used in situations that have not responded to traditional western veterinary medical practices.

Cautions and Contraindictions

When acupuncture is performed, the following conditions are cautioned or contraindicated:

- Fracture

- Pregnancy

-Open wound

- Infectious disease

How long does each sessions last?

Each session may take 20-60 minutes.

How many treatments are needed?

It depends upon the nature, severity and duration of diseases. A single treatment may be enough for an acute condition. A series of 3 to 10 treatments can resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative may need monthly treatments over time.

Does acupuncture hurt?

A proper acupuncture therapy may induce distention, and a heaviness sensation along with contraction of local muscle. Over 95% of patients are comfortable with acupuncture therapy. Some animals will fall asleep during acupuncture treatment. Sedation is not recommended before acupuncture treatment as it may interfere with the acupuncture effect.

Who is qualified to perform veterinary acupuncture?

Only licensed veterinarians are eligible to practice acupuncture in most stated in the USA. A certified acupuncture training course is highly recommended before performing veterinary acupuncture.

How much does a veterinary acupuncture treatment cost?

An initial consultation with the Dr. is needed to asses your pet, you will fill out a questionnaire and some questions from the Dr. herself.  Acupuncture consultations usually last about 45minutes to an hour and cost $75. The first session is, more often than not, done during the same appointment.

After that each individual session is $50 or you can get a 3-Session Pre-Pay Pack for $125.

Please give the clinic a call if you are interested in this treatment and we can set you up with an appointment with Dr. Bertolone. (:  

Dr. Bertolone placing Sami's needles during one of her regular acupuncture sessions.