The length and frequency of treatments depends on the problem and condition of the patient.Stimulation of an individual acupuncture point may be for as little as 10 seconds or as long as 20 minutes, generally acute problems require less time and frequency of treatment. For example an acute sprain may require only one treatment, whereas more severe or chronic ailments may need several or several dozen treatments. If multiple treatments are necessary that are given 1-2 treatments per week for 2-6 weeks.

A positive response is generally seen after the first to third treatment. Once a maximum response is achieved (usually after 4-8 treatments) treatments are tapered off so the maximum amount of symptom-free time elapses between them. Many animals with chronic conditions can taper off to a treatment every one to three months.

Veterinary acupuncture has been used to treat animals in China for nearly 4000 years.In North America it has been used for decades in both large and small animal. Acupuncture is one of a variety of therapies a veterinarian may use to treat animals. Simply stated, acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body which have the ability to alter various biochemical and physiological conditions in order to achieve the desired effect. It is a means of helping the body heal itself. Acupuncture is not a cure-all, but where indicated it works well when used alone, or in combination with traditional veterinary medicine.

Ancient Chinese medical philosophy believes that disease is a result of an imbalance of energy in the body. Acupuncture is believed to balance this energy, and thereby assist the body in healing disease. In Western terms, acupuncture can assist the body’s efforts to heal itself by causing certain physiological changes. For example, acupuncture can stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, and relieve muscle spasms, and cause the release of hormones, such as endorphins (one of the body’s pain control) or cortisol (a natural steroid).

With over 28 years of experience in conventional veterinary practice and having earned the distinction as Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, Dr. Levy can provide for all your pet’s medical needs. If you pet’s condition warrants special consideration, we will arrange for you to see veterinary specialists in dermatology, internal medicine, neurology, oncology, ophthalmology, radiology, and surgery. In the event your pet needs twenty four hour care, we will arrange referral to a veterinary facility capable of providing such care.

Chinese Herbal Medicine has a long history, with Chinese medical texts dating back to 200 AD. There are hundreds of herbal formulas, many of which are still in use today. Herbs can be used to support the body in many ways. They can be used to supplement acupuncture and conventional medicines in the treatment of acute disease, or as long-term, “tonic” formulas to help strengthen an aging patient. Poor digestion, chronic infections, arthritis, and asthma are only a few of the many disorders that respond to herbal medicine. They can also be used as adjunctive therapy for pets that are undergoing chemotherapy. Chinese herbs are natural potent medicine, which must be used appropriately. This makes the selection of the correct herbs for your individual pet vitally important.