Veterinary acupuncture

I thought we had a thread on this but it seems the topic is just posts nested in other threads.

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JUNE 12, 2016 1:55 AM
Acupuncture for pets gaining acceptance
BY HOLLY HOUGH

When my cat, Neo, was 7 years old, he began scratching and licking open sores on his belly. A blood test revealed he was mildly allergic to pollen, but the strongest reaction was to protein, specifically chicken, turkey and beef.

Initially, heavy doses of steroids were Neo’s only relief, but I purchased cat food made with venison, something he had never eaten. The itching slowly got better and, after a time, I gradually weaned him off the steroid to see if the food change had solved the scratching entirely. Neo’s itching was much less intense than it had been previously, but he still scratched. My vet put him back on a lower dose of steroids, but I was concerned about the long-term side effects.

After some Internet research, I decided to try acupuncture. Neo had four or five sessions over several months, but after each one, the itching improved. Eventually, I was able to take him off of the steroids entirely.

Bernard Glassman and his wife, Barbara, of Chapel Hill adopted Tofu, their yellow lab, when she was just a puppy. At 11 years old, Tofu was diagnosed with a condition that resulted in a growth on her spine. They were told that she might have six months to live and the pain would likely be too great to justify keeping her alive.

Tofu could no longer walk up the steps of their home and Bernard and Barbara considered putting her on painkillers, but, like me, they were concerned about side effects. The vet who diagnosed Tofu suggested acupuncture and, even though it seemed like a lot of hoodoo to him at the time, Bernard called a qualified vet.

At the first session, Bernard held Tofu and watched her relax and eventually sleep with the needles sticking out of her fur. “All I know is that, once Tofu was getting the acupuncture, she moved more easily,” said Glassman. “After one treatment, she walked up the stairs after at least a month of barely being able to get up a curb.”

Tofu received regular acupuncture until she passed, which was five years beyond her diagnosis.

According to Bernard, “We gave Tofu a pill for pain on occasion, but I feel that acupuncture saved her.”

Not every story is as dramatic as Tofu’s, but fortunately for our animal companions, acupuncture can be used to treat dogs and cats supportively for pretty much anything.

ALL I KNOW IS THAT, ONCE TOFU WAS GETTING THE ACUPUNCTURE, SHE MOVED MORE EASILY.
Owner Bernard Glassman

Michelle Droke, DVM, of Cole Park Veterinary Hospital says: “The most common things we treat and probably have the most success treating are arthritis, leg pain, back pain, and neck pain. We also use acupuncture in patients that have various diseases like cancer, for example. We’re not necessarily going to cure their cancer, but we can help treat nausea and pain associated with the cancer. We can also try to support the immune system to slow the progression of the cancer and help with energy level.”

Acupuncture is also used to help treat seizure disorders, which can result in fewer seizures and decreased medication.

“A lot of the drugs we use have potential side effects and acupuncture really doesn’t, so it’s a nice, safe thing we can try to support our patients,” says Droke.

The basic principle behind acupuncture is that accessing specified energy points in the body stimulates the central nervous system, which, helps to increase the flow of qi, or life energy. When acupuncture needles are inserted at these points, feel-good hormones, or endorphins, are released, which not only ease physical pain but also promote relaxation.

Dr. Droke indicates, however, that not every animal is helped by acupuncture. Just like humans, some animals respond and some do not. And, just like humans, there are patients that simply don’t like acupuncture.

“Some dogs try to bite us and it ends up being more stressful than helpful to try to put the needles in, and the same is true with some cats. We are limited a little bit by a patient’s disposition.”

A growing number of veterinarians are trained in acupuncture and the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (www.aava.org) offers a searchable database of certified veterinary acupuncturists across the country. Please seek the advice of your veterinarian if you are interested inacupuncture for a four-legged friend.

Holly Hough, Ph.D., works with the Clergy Health Initiative at the Duke Divinity School. You can contact and follow her at facebook.com/drhollyhough.

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We did run a tiny news piece on veterinary acupuncture - that must have been around the turn of the millennium. We did it because my cat got some acupuncture and our editor at the time was a cat person. Maybe I'll dig it up at some later date and post it here, should this thread grow.

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Does Your Dog Need Animal Acupuncture? This NYC Vet Thinks So
You've heard of Xanax for dogs, but have you ever considered acupuncture for your pets?
By Margaret Abrams • 06/30/16 3:32pm

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Dr. Rachel Barrack and friends. (Photo: Courtesy Dr. Rachel Barrack)

You’ve heard of Xanax for dogs, but have you ever considered acupuncture for your pets? Dr. Rachel Barrack of Animal Acupuncture is a licensed vet based right here in New York, and she’s more than ready to stick tiny needles in your prized pets. Dr. Barrack is certified in both veterinary acupuncture and Chinese herbology, so it’s the best of both worlds.

Dr. Barrack offers house calls for pets ranging from dogs and cats to show horses (just in case you keep one in your townhouse). She promises her services alleviate chronic pain and help with behavioral issues. She works closely with Instagram stars, including Toast Meets World, who’s the author of ToastHampton, and her siblings Muppet and Pants, as well as their fellow Insta stars Ella Bean and Louis Reginald. Don’t worry; she can administer acupuncture on regular dogs, too. The Observer spoke to Dr. Barrack to find out whose animal qualifies for an acupuncture treatment–and why even she was skeptical at first.

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This dog looks none too happy about his procedure. (Photo: Jason Hall)

How did you first learn about animal acupuncture? I previously worked full time at the Belmont and Aqueduct racetracks where I was faced with a challenging case. This particular horse had an unusual lameness that would not resolve with extended rest or western treatment. I heard that acupuncture could help, so although skeptical, I figured why not give it a shot. I reached out to another colleague who was a certified veterinary acupuncturist and shortly after being treated, my patient was able to make a full recovery and eventually returned to racing. I was also treating a cat suffering from advanced cancer. Although this cat was receiving palliative western therapy, his owner was looking for something else to make him more comfortable. I watched as another colleague utilized acupuncture and Chinese herbal therapy to help better the remainder of this cat’s life.

When did you start practicing? I was so intrigued that I began studying under Dr. Xie of the Chi Institute in Gainseville, Florida. Once I began incorporating acupuncture into my veterinary repertoire, my practice of medicine was forever changed. I now offer an integrative approach to veterinary medicine.

If the pet owner hasn’t experienced acupuncture, do you suggest they try it first? I can understand being skeptical of acupuncture initially, even I was before I fully understood how it works and saw firsthand the incredible benefits of this practice. Although relatively new in the Western world, acupuncture has been the mainstay of Chinese medicine for thousands of years. The needles are so tiny that they cause minimal discomfort to your pet and have the potential to be life changing. Many animals find the process so relaxing they fall asleep during treatment. You may want to explore this for yourself with a human acupuncturist.

What’s your process when you’re working with someone’s pet for the first time? How do you figure out what’s ailing them? On the first visit, I take a full health history of your animal. Then, I perform a detailed conventional (western) physical exam as well as a traditional Chinese veterinary medical examination. This enables me to determine what their ailment is and how best to treat it. Recommended treatments may include acupuncture and/or Chinese herbals exclusively, or a combination of eastern and western therapies.

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Instagram famous dog Toast. (Photo: Animal Acupuncture)

Have animals ever had bad reactions? My practice is mobile, so it’s less stressful on my patients when they are treated in their own homes (or barns). I also move very slowly and always take a less is more approach. Additionally, I begin all acupuncture sessions by selecting a few calming acupuncture points to help my patients feel relaxed. Some animals may experience minor discomfort when needles are being inserted, but the needles are so thin that most patients tolerate them very well.

What’s the most unusual animal you’ve administered acupuncture on? I administer acupuncture on horses, dogs and cats. However, while in veterinary school, I spent some time in South Africa and worked with rhinoceros, zebras and giraffes.

How do you know if your pet needs, or qualifies for, acupuncture? Acupuncture produces a physiological response by inserting thin, sterile, stainless steel needles into specific points on the body. Most acupuncture points are located along 14 major channels, which form a network that carries blood and energy throughout the entire body. It can provide pain relief, stimulate the immune and nervous systems, increase microcirculation, and decrease inflammation. Acupuncture can also help restore balance between organ systems for optimal health and overall wellbeing. Some common veterinary applications include behavioral issues, post-operative healing, degenerative joint disease and muscle soreness. Acupuncture can also be used to provide the best possible quality of life for animals on palliative care.

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Wait, did she imply she's done acupuncture on a rhino? Because that is something I would like to see.

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Originally Posted by GeneChing

Wait, did she imply she's done acupuncture on a rhino? Because that is something I would like to see.

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With what? Railroad stakes?

I find it amazing that a practice that has failed for 1500 years to produce objective evidence for its efficacy is even given consideration in the treatment of organisms that can't even communicate anecdotal effect.

Clearly there are some who are unable to consider something outside their rigid mental paradigms. Animals, however do not suffer from this and correspondingly seem to benefit quickly from acupuncture treatment. I have seen these effects first hand several times and can testify to the relative veracity of these claims. Furthermore, animal subjects used in acupuncture research almost always show measurable effect from treatment - because a rat cannot give an answer to "how are you feeling now?", these effects are usually measured by changes in neurotransmitters and inflammatory cytokines. How does the placebo effect work on rats with a shaved hindquarter getting poked with a needle?

I believe it is actually the human mind that blocks the effect of acupuncture creating a "nocebo" effect. Expectations can literally block the effect of pharmacological anesthesia, just as psychological trauma can lead to physical disease states.

peace

herb ox

Veterinary acupuncture is an ancient part of traditional Chinese medicine. Back in Taiwan in the health supply stores you would see the acupuncture models of humans---but also dogs, pigs, cattle and horses. Coming up to modern times, here in California vets can do animal acupuncture after attending a set of classes and passing the exam. One of the guys here at work routinely takes his dogs in for acupuncture for their various orthopedic problems. It seems to work great and the dogs don't freak out when getting the treatments. The school where my wife studied traditional Chinese medicine (Pacific College of Oriental Medicine) I think is going to start offering courses in veterinary acupuncture.

take care,
Brian

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Originally Posted by herb ox

Clearly there are some who are unable to consider something outside their rigid mental paradigms. Animals, however do not suffer from this and correspondingly seem to benefit quickly from acupuncture treatment. I have seen these effects first hand several times and can testify to the relative veracity of these claims. Furthermore, animal subjects used in acupuncture research almost always show measurable effect from treatment - because a rat cannot give an answer to "how are you feeling now?", these effects are usually measured by changes in neurotransmitters and inflammatory cytokines. How does the placebo effect work on rats with a shaved hindquarter getting poked with a needle?

I believe it is actually the human mind that blocks the effect of acupuncture creating a "nocebo" effect. Expectations can literally block the effect of pharmacological anesthesia, just as psychological trauma can lead to physical disease states.

peace

herb ox

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Considering I've now spent the last 4 years doing formal work on animal behavior, in addition to the previous cancer research, etc., which means I also need to have some fucking clue about comparative physiology and neurobiology, I'm quite confident in my ability to say you don't know wtf you're talking about.

But hey, keep bitching like a punk about people with "rigid mental paradigms." Esp when those people have formal degrees in an actual science, previous experience in health care, given peer reviewed talks on medical research, and hold graduate level research in behavioral science and ecological science. Meanwhile, you've sat around playing with fucking needles and are too fucking scared to look objectively at the reality that you've been wasting a good chunk of your energy and time. But I'M the one with a "rigid mental paradigm." Yeah you don't look like an ignorant twat at all...

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Originally Posted by Brian Kennedy

Veterinary acupuncture is an ancient part of traditional Chinese medicine. Back in Taiwan in the health supply stores you would see the acupuncture models of humans---but also dogs, pigs, cattle and horses. Coming up to modern times, here in California vets can do animal acupuncture after attending a set of classes and passing the exam. One of the guys here at work routinely takes his dogs in for acupuncture for their various orthopedic problems. It seems to work great and the dogs don't freak out when getting the treatments. The school where my wife studied traditional Chinese medicine (Pacific College of Oriental Medicine) I think is going to start offering courses in veterinary acupuncture.

take care,
Brian

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Thanks for chiming in, Brian! Yes, CM has a fairly well established modern history of working with animals. That's great to hear PCOM will be offering veterinary acupuncture!

cheers,

herb ox

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Originally Posted by SoCo KungFu

Yeah you don't look like an ignorant twat at all...

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It seems you are the one being needled here, SoCo... I don't often encounter others on this forum who spout such hostility and err logically while logically debunking anyone who has something to share that you disagree with. I don't particularly care for your tone, sir - if you can't be at least somewhat congenial with your communications, then I suggest you find somewhere else to take out your frustrations.

I have a few friends that have horses and I was stunned at how much they knew about TCM (or TCVM). Tiedajiu is common in that community.

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East meets west as sport horse owners turn to Chinese Veterinary Medicine
December 13, 2016 Horsetalk.co.nz

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Veterinary acupuncture specialist Dr Janet Greenfield-Davis. © Palm Beach Equine Clinic

The philosophy of herbals for healing has existed for thousands of years as part of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), and a Florida veterinarian is among those bringing the treatments to the sport horse world.

Chinese herbal medicine is a relatively new treatment among equine veterinarians in the western world, but Palm Beach Equine Clinic veterinarian Dr Janet Greenfield-Davis has incorporated the use of herbs and herbal treatments as an integral part of her alternative therapy options for patients.

Greenfield-Davis specialises in both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

As humans adapt to using all-natural methods to treat illness, herbal medicine for animals also uses ancient Chinese formulas aimed at treating the underlying causes of a disease or illness to help the body heal itself, rather than only temporarily treating the presented symptoms.

“There is a herbal product for anything,” said Dr. Greenfield-Davis, who found herbal medicine six years ago when she started specialising in acupuncture, which joins Chinese herbal medicine as two of the most common forms of TCVM therapies.

“Herbals treat a variety of ailments from sore muscles to problems affecting the liver, heart, kidneys, joints, and more. I pair the herbals with my acupuncture, which is traditionally the ancient Chinese way.”

In TCVM, once a symptom of disharmony in the body or disease is identified, treatment proceeds through four possible branches, including acupuncture, food therapy, a form of Chinese medical massage called Tui-na, and Chinese herbal medicine. From topical treatments, including salves and powders, to edible treatments; Chinese herbal medicine not only draws on natural products, but also on the natural tendencies of the horse itself. Being herbivores, horses ingest herbs found in the wild while they are grazing.

While the traditional methods date back thousands of years, the treatments developed within Chinese herbal medicine are ever-evolving and coupled with modern technology, historical and ancient Chinese wisdom are still very effective. In addition, the treatments use the properties of many common herbs with widely known uses. Including ginseng for fatigue, chamomile for calming, garlic as an antibiotic, and arnica as an anti-inflammatory, the recipes used in herbal medicine draw from only natural sources. This fact is making herbal treatments more common among sport horses that undergo drug testing for banned substances while competing.

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“The competitive world is accepting herbal medicine more and more every year,” said Dr. Greenfield-Davis. “It provides an alternative for horses at high levels, especially in FEI, that need a little extra support. They aren’t drugs, they don’t test, and they are a natural product.”

Greenfield-Davis believes that offering such alternative treatment options is a sizeable advancement for Palm Beach Equine Clinic, in that herbal medicines provide owners with another option when traditional western medicines may not be their answer.

“It enhances our practice because it gives owners a place to turn,” she said. “There is a lot of stigmatism behind using particular western drugs, and I think this gives people a choice; they don’t have to use the traditional western medicines anymore because they can now turn to eastern medicines.”

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Dr Janet Greenfield-Davis with a patient. © Palm Beach Equine Clinic

While it is a personal choice to use a more holistic or all-natural approach to veterinary care for some horse owners, herbs also represent a practical alternative. According to Greenfield-Davis, herbal medicine is the perfect choice when treating a horse with an aversion to needles, or for horses that do not respond to particular medicines or therapies.

“We are able to work in a more natural way instead of using steroids and things of that nature,” she added. “In some cases, I will use solely herbals and the treatments produce a lot of wonderful results.”

As Palm Beach Equine Clinic continues to advance its alternative medicine therapies, the equestrian community is also learning to accept new possibilities. For Palm Beach Equine Clinic and Dr. Greenfield-Davis, Chinese herbal medicine is a step into the future with a nod to ancient Chinese history.

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Acupuncture for your pets
AMY PATTERSON 573-518-3616 Updated Jan 8, 2017

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Amy Patterson, Daily Journal
Dr. Jean Liljegren, one of three veterinarians on staff at the Animal Medical Center of Park Hills, takes some time to bond with new patient Sammi before beginning his first acupuncture treatment.

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Amy Patterson, Daily Journal
Veterinarian Dr. Jean Liljegren begins most acupuncture sessions by inserting the first needle in the middle of the animal’s head, slightly above the eyes. Stimulating this point creates a calming effect, as can be seen in Sammi's very relaxed face.

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Amy Patterson, Daily Journal
Sammi checks out an acupuncture needle as veterinarian Dr. Jean Liljegren removes it from its sterile packaging. The needles are very thin, solid and sterile, and although they come in different sizes for small and larger animals, even the largest needles are still very slim.

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Amy Patterson, Daily Journal
Adding a bit of electrical stimulation to acupuncture treatments is something Dr. Jean Liljegren does often, depending on the animal's condition and the goals of treatment. Adding electro stimulation to the traditional use of needles stimulates the acupuncture points more quickly and helps them stay stimulated longer.

All three of the veterinarians at the Animal Medical Center of Park Hills — Dr. Crystal Harding, Dr. Jennifer Daniels and Dr. Jean Liljegren — offer a full range of medical care and treatments for companion animals, but Liljegren, the newest member of the team, also offers something different than traditional “Western” veterinary care.

Liljegren, pronounced with a silent ‘j’, and who her clients typically refer to as “Dr. Jean,” is a fully-trained and licensed doctor of veterinary medicine (D.V.M.), but is also trained in traditional Chinese veterinary medicine, including acupuncture. She offers a more holistic approach to veterinary care than her traditional counterparts, integrating the use of Chinese herbal supplements, dietary recommendations and acupuncture with traditional veterinary care.

Although the practice of acupuncture has been around for centuries, it is still relatively new in the United States, especially within the veterinary field. It has garnered enough respect among veterinary professionals, however, to have gained recognition from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) as a legitimate form of treatment.

“Something that just happened in the last year is that the AVMA (the American Veterinary Medicine Association) has approved acupuncture as a sub-category of veterinary medicine,” said Liljegren. “So it’s getting more recognized and there’s great research going on both with herbs and with needles.”

Much of Liljegren’s “Eastern” approach centers around the use of acupuncture to treat a wide range of illnesses and medical conditions. In a nutshell, veterinary acupuncture stimulates the release of the body’s own pain relieving and anti-inflammatory substances.

According to the official website of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA), benefits of acupuncture also include improved blood flow to the tissues, oxygenation and the removal of metabolic wastes and toxins. Treatments involve the insertion of very thin, solid, sterile needles into body tissue where nerve bundles and blood vessels come together.

And unlike prescription and over-the-counter pain medications, there are no adverse side effects for a pet’s internal organs and no worries about unsafe interactions with any medications a pet may already be taking. Acupuncture can therefore be safely used to treat a variety of illnesses and medical conditions, including trauma and post-surgical pain, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, respiratory, urinary, skin and neurological issues. For cancer patients, it can also help alleviate pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and lack of appetite.

The goal of acupuncture is to help the body heal itself. From a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) perspective, acupuncture encourages healing by correcting energy imbalances in the body. Acupuncture enhances blood circulation, nervous system stimulation, and the release of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving hormones.

Liljegren takes extra time with her acupuncture patients, especially during the first appointment, asking questions of the human client to get to know her new patient’s medical history, typical behaviors and personality, along with current health status, before beginning any treatments.

One of Liljegren’s newest patients, a 13-year-old Beagle-mix named Sammi, has a history of chronic ear infections and a few bouts of illness with vomiting and diarrhea, but until about a year ago when he began to develop arthritis along his middle and lower spine, he lived most of his life without any major medical issues.

About one week before his first appointment with Liljegren, Sammi experienced a sudden and very painful episode in which he began to stumble around, losing control of his back legs.

After ruling out a stroke or a ruptured disc, Sammi’s traditional “Western” veterinarian prescribed a medication to treat overall pain and another drug to treat any possible nerve pain, in addition to the joint inflammation medication he was already taking.

Within about 24 hours, Sammi was walking more normally again and he continued to show some small improvements. His appetite, however, was almost non-existent. After about three days, the general pain reliever was discontinued because it was likely causing him nausea or other stomach upset. His appetite improved some, but Sammi’s overall condition didn’t seem to be improving much beyond walking more normally.

It was obvious Sammi needed more help to heal, but without some extensive diagnostic tests, the cause of the episode couldn’t be known. After it became clear that the episode would have some long-lasting implications for him in terms of mobility and physical discomfort, Liljegren’s advice was sought to see if acupuncture might help Sammi.

Liljegren tends to ask some non-conventional questions compared to veterinarians whose practice is more traditional, such as whether the dog seeks out sunny spots or tends to avoid them.

In discussing Sammi’s history, she asked, “How about heat or cool preferences, in general, over his lifetime?”

For dogs that tend to be strongly affected by heat or cold, she mentioned that some simple dietary changes can help balance out an animal’s body temperature.

Liljegren continued to ask questions about Sammi’s history in order to determine which areas of his body to target with the acupuncture needles.

“As I’m listening to you — and I ask weird questions sometimes — as I’m listening to you talk, I’m thinking of the different Chinese organ systems. So when you’re telling me he’s not eating very well, that can just be plain old Chi deficiency. With geriatric people and dogs, their appetites tend to not work very well … But if we have chronic G.I. issues over the years, that can be what we call a spleen Chi deficiency.”

Liljegren also spends a bit of time explaining the acupuncture process and why it works.

“The Chinese call any kind of pain ‘stagnation,’” she said. “So the energy is stuck in his back. If it’s acute pain like he had the other day, they call that ‘blood stagnation.’ If it’s more of a chronic pain (like arthritis), that’s a Chi stagnation situation. Not that I necessarily would treat them differently, but I might be a little more aggressive to try to move the Chi in a blood stagnation situation. If they’re really painful, you just do as much as you can to help balance the energy.”

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Although the practice of acupuncture originated in Eastern cultures centuries ago, there is a solid scientific basis for why it can be an effective treatment for many health conditions.

“There certainly is lots of Western medical evidence about why this works,” said Liljegren. “Each point — each acupuncture point — and there are very specific ones, corresponds to a nerve. Each of these points is the end of a nerve. So there’s a neuron and you put a needle over the neuron — and it’s stainless steel; there’s nothing in it or on it — and of course you have electricity running through your nervous system. So you have a metal needle and electricity and you’ll get ion exchange. You’ll get a little bit of stimulation to that point, which sends a signal to the brain that says ‘we need chemicals here, please send.’ The brain tends to know what (the body) needs, whether it’s endorphins, catecholamines, or many other neurotransmitters.”

She explained that dogs and humans share a common physiology when it comes to acupuncture.

“For dogs we pretty much transpose all the people points onto the dog,” she said, while pointing to a chart that depicts each acupuncture point on an illustration of a dog.

Dogs may actually be better candidates for acupuncture than humans in at least one regard.

“The cool thing about dogs,” said Liljegren, “is you don’t ever have a placebo effect. So when I see dachshunds who couldn’t walk a month ago and now are walking, that wasn’t because the dogs had certain expectations about the treatment.”

Liljegren doesn’t claim that acupuncture is a cure-all for all animal medical conditions, nor does she believe it’s a replacement for “Western” veterinary medicine.

“Is there going to be a cure for Sammi? No,” she said, explaining that of course his advanced arthritis cannot be reversed, but that acupuncture could help ease his discomfort and possibly increase his mobility, energy, appetite and overall functioning.

“With Sammi, we’re not necessarily trying to cure a disease,” she said, “we’re just supporting the whole dog to try to make him more comfortable and give him a better quality of life.”

Liljegren also explained that it takes more than one acupuncture treatment session to see results.

“I generally try to encourage people to commit to four treatments,” Liljegren said, although for Sammi, she recommended a slightly more aggressive approach because of the recent acute episode, followed by a reevaluation of his condition.

The effects of acupuncture are cumulative so several treatments are usually necessary for chronic medical conditions, then tapered down as needed for maintenance, with acute conditions typically needing fewer treatments.

“We’re not going to have one treatment and then he’s gonna be fixed,” she said. “It’s a chronic condition. He’s got degenerative joint disease, degenerative myelopathy to some extent … and I’m just trying to tap into his body’s own healing and pain mechanisms.

“The body kinda just knows what it needs … And the other interesting thing is, as you go along, like after his third or fourth treatment, the effects are going to last longer. So the first treatment, you might only see a response for a couple days. The second treatment, we’re hoping to get closer to a week; the third treatment we might get 10 days.”

After getting to know Sammi and explaining a bit about acupuncture and expectations of the treatment, Liljegren then gave him a brief examination, checking his vital signs and general condition, before inserting the first acupuncture needle. The needles come in different sizes for small and larger animals, but even the largest needles are still very slim.

Liljegren begins most acupuncture sessions by inserting the first needle in the middle of the animal’s head, slightly above the eyes.

“The point I usually start with is a calming point,” she said, as she gently but quickly inserted the needle into Sammi’s forehead. “I call it the unicorn point.”

She then proceeded to place needles at numerous other points along his spine, down his legs and the sides of his feet. Although the reaction of individual animals will vary, most tolerate acupuncture treatments very well. And although certain points may be sensitive, insertion of the needles usually isn’t painful.

As she went about inserting the needles, Sammi barely noticed and even though he chose to remain standing during the treatment, he became visibly relaxed. Some animals even fall asleep during treatment sessions.

Liljegren said the length of time she leaves the needles in varies, depending on the animal’s condition and whether she uses electrical stimulation to enhance the effects of the acupuncture needles.

“It varies a bit depending on condition,” she said. “Like if he were really debilitated, I would not leave the needles in as long because I would not want to stimulate him too much. But my average time is between six and 10 minutes if I use electro stimulation. If I don’t use electrostim, they should stay in 10 to even 20 minutes (depending on treatment goals.)"

Adding a bit of electrical stimulation to acupuncture treatments is something Liljegren does often and was part of Sammi’s treatment as well. After the needles had been inserted for a few minutes, she attached an electrode to each one. The electrodes were, in turn, attached to a small, rectangular device with wires through which the electricity was delivered to the needles.

“The electricity sort of pulsates, stimulating the point more quickly,” Liljegren said, as she slowly turned a dial on the device. “I turn it up slowly, to the point where I can see (the needles) move and then back it off … And part of the reason I use the electrostim is it helps the points stay stimulated longer.”

Once the prescribed amount of time has passed, the needles are easily and painlessly removed.

The Animal Medical Center of Park Hills is located at 105 Strauss Dr., across the road from the Save-A-Lot shopping center.

Amy Patterson is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-518-3616 or apatterson@dailyjournalonline.com.

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Is this trending? I found that short piece we ran on veterinary acupuncture that i mentioned earlier. It was a 'candy' piece, filler really because our previous editor liked fillers, so it wasn't listed in our table of contents. The piece was Tested on Humans p.18 August 2000.

Just like the U.S. medical system is broken, the U.S. veterinary system is broken. They followed the same model. So it is unsurprising that this would be rising now because people just can't afford good medicine for their pets.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine For Dogs
February 17, 2017 By Fanna Easter

Traditional Chinese Medicine Overview

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Roland Gruenewald/Adobe Stock

Before modern medicine existed, an ancient form of medicine was readily practiced worldwide. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been around for thousands of years and originated in China. In a nutshell, TCM focuses on bringing the body back into harmony, which prevents illness from occurring.

Interestingly, you can find TCM practices worldwide. Bits and pieces have been sprinkled into different cultures, and most TCM practices are known as remedies and old wives’ tales. TCM is more than superstition. Science is proving that Chinese herbs, medicines and acupuncture really do prevent and treat ailments and illnesses even in dogs.

Check out our Traditional Chinese Medicine veterinarian’s series on TCM for dogs. Dr. Mittner explains Traditional Chinese Medicine simply.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine for Dogs?

Energy flows through a dog’s body, just like our own, in harmony. Sometimes, this energy becomes disrupted due to stress, change in temperature or change in climate. When a dog’s body is in disharmony, pet owners will notice their dogs seeking a cool or warm place to lie down. Some dogs will drink excessively, cough, seem unsettled or act oddly. This is disharmony within the body. Depending on a dog’s imbalance and element sign, TCM practitioners use Chinese herbs and acupuncture to bring the body back into balance.

My Experience With Traditional Chinese Medicine

While Traditional Chinese Medicine might sound a bit bizarre and “woo-woo,” it’s the real deal. For years, I assumed TCM was a complimentary modality filled with superstition and folklore. Oh, was I proven wrong quickly. Personally, TCM has helped my chronic back issues and anxiety immensely.

As for TCM and dogs, during an acupuncture session, I’ve witnessed my dog’s appetite bounce back within seconds after his first round of chemotherapy. Additionally, my personal dogs and clients’ dogs found tremendous relief from anxiety.

Benefits of Chinese Acupuncture

While personal testimonials work, scientific proof is better. Scientific data provides proof to science-based clinicians that Traditional Chinese Medicine does work for dogs. Many veterinary oncologists today are seeking acupuncture certification due to its benefits on their clients. After chemotherapy, acupuncture can bring the body back into harmony, improving appetite and well-being.

Does Your Dog Need TCM?

All dogs are susceptible to changes in their environment, and stress is a major cause of imbalance. If your dog is anxious, your dog is acting differently, you’ve moved recently, you’ve added another dog to your household or your dog has a chronic illness, it’s worth a trip to a holistic veterinarian or Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner.

TCM should be used with modern medicine.
As a dog trainer, many of my clients have noticed their dogs’ anxiety and stress greatly reduce once TCM practices were added to their behavior protocol. It’s important to understand, TCM isn’t a cure-all for all illnesses or ailments. TCM should be used with modern medicine.

How to Find a TCM Practitioner

Finding a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner can be challenging, but worth the effort. Our beloved Chinese medicine veterinarian is currently studying for her master’s degree at Chi Institute. When searching for a TCM practitioner, expect to drive a couple of hours, as many are located in larger cities. Once a Chinese medicine vet examines your dog and creates a protocol, he or she can directly ship needed supplements and Chinese herbs to your home.

If searching for acupuncture, you may find acupuncture certified general practice veterinarians in your area. You can also ask your chosen Chinese medicine practitioner for local acupuncture recommendations. Check out a few tips on finding a qualified acupuncture holistic veterinarian near you.

Which element personality is your dog? Both of my dogs are “heart” dogs. 🙂

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Vet works magic on animals; Chinese medicine makes the difference

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Special to the Times
Dr. Beverly Chevallier performs acupuncture on one of her patients, an older dog. In June, the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine bestowed the title of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine Practitioner to Chevallier. She says Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, diet adjustments and herbal treatments, is very effective and beneficial in overcoming the health issues animals face.

Posted: Saturday, July 22, 2017 10:30 am |
Special to the Times

Beverly Chevallier, D.V.M., was awarded her doctor of veterinary medicine in 1984 by Louisiana State University (LSU). She then established a clinic in Western Grove and has practiced Western veterinary medicine for the past 30 years.
"I work really hard in traditional veterinary medicine," she says. "I am a good vet, but I also wanted to do something more. I wanted to be a magic vet."
In 2012, she took a step in that direction and enrolled in the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine.
Chevallier has practiced martial arts for the past 20 years, and she said its "killing points" are the same as Chinese medicine's "healing points."
That made sense, she stressed. "They're not stupid.
"Before, when someone in Western medicine hits a brick wall, it is a personal failure. If I had known about this before — no problems, no side effects.
"And animals are proof that acupuncture works. Animals don't lie like people."
As an example, she noted that Boxers, as a breed, all have tumors. "I made up ointment, and the stuff went away.
"I know it sounds crazy, but I wanted to know this stuff," she laughed. "It's Chinese; it's legit; it's good."
For the past five years, Chevallier has been earning credit hours and certificates from the Institute of Chinese Medicine in Reddick, Florida:
• Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist;
• Certified Veterinary Chinese Herbalist;
• Certified Veterinary Food Therapist;
• Certified Tui-Na Practitioner.
Those certificates total 493 credit hours. On June 21, 2017, the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine bestowed the title of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine Practitioner to Beverly Chevallier, DVM. She is one of the first groups in the Western world to earn a masters degree in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.
The Western Grove High School graduate said few veterinarians in the country are certified in traditional Chinese medicine. She said a few are in New York and Colorado, but she is the only veterinarian with those certifications in Arkansas, Missouri, Louisiana, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.
"Everyone loves us," she said of Chinese medicine. "We put a needle here, change the diet."
But she stressed that diagnosis is the key, and Western medicine tests often rely on chemistry. She said checking an animal's liver, kidney, color of tongue, history, pulse, water and bowel movements tell her how to treat an animal.
"If a dog is real hot, we take it off chicken and put on turkey," she explained. "If it's old and cold, we feed chicken and lamb to warm up.
"If overweight, we have to find a balance. God made you, and we have to find where we screwed up."
She said that traditional Chinese medicine is especially beneficial for show animals, because it can heal animals without leaving new scars or blemishes.
Chevallier said she has been treating an aggressive dog, whose owner has been bringing it over from Jonesboro once a month. "It wants to kill her husband," she stressed. "We are doing herbals and acupuncture."
She noted that animals can't tell you what's wrong, but acupuncture can stop a limp. "It may seem crazy, but it works," she continued.
"I would like to do this three days a week, and find a young veterinarian to help with traditional treatments, like vaccinations and spaying.
"I want to do this for the rest of my life. This gives me the right to do magic."

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a martial artist too...

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Pet-friendly Chinese acupuncturist gets tails wagging again
A clinic uses traditional Chinese medicine to give owners an alternative to putting down their beloved pets
PUBLISHED : Monday, 28 August, 2017, 2:22pm
UPDATED : Monday, 28 August, 2017, 2:32pm
Agence France-Presse

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Looking like a furry brown pincushion, eight-month-old French bulldog Dan Jiao whimpers nervously as he waits for the end of a Chinese acupuncture session aimed at curing partial paralysis caused by a puppyhood injury.

Dan Jiao (Egg Dumpling), would obviously rather be chewing on a bone somewhere than sitting strapped against his will into a harness that resembles a medieval torture device, *****ed by several long needles hooked up to a mild electric current.

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But the Shanghai clinic of traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Jin Rishan at least provides hopeful owners an alternative to putting down the beloved family dog or cat, the typical fate of pets immobilised by severe spinal and nervous system injuries.

“We’re getting more and more customers,” said Jin, 53, whose Shanghai TCM Neurology and Acupuncture Animal Health Centre is operating at full capacity of about 20 patients per day, and growing.
Many dogs suffer from back injuries or spinal deterioration that can render them unable to walk. A range of breeds including bulldogs, German shepherds, collies, basset hounds and shi tzus are particularly prone.
“Seventy per cent of the animals here suffer from spinal disc herniation, leading to paralysis of the hind legs or all four legs,” Jin said, adding that acupuncture is “more effective” than modern medicine.
“Western medical practices can’t do much,” he said.

It appears to be working for Dan Jiao, who was completely paralysed when his owner Michael Xu first brought him in for treatment after a fall that broke his back.
“After three days of acupuncture, he was slowly able to crawl on his front paws. By the seventh day he was able to limp on all four legs.”

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On Friday, patients ranging from a gangly black Labrador to a tiny teacup poodle were carried in by their owners or carted in baby prams.
They were eventually strapped into harnesses before the thin acupuncture needles were inserted into their problem spots.

Others sniffed nervously as smoking moxibustion cups – a form of heat therapy that involves burning aromatic plants – were applied to their hides.
But the place had not completely gone to the dogs. The day’s sole feline patient looked particularly put out, being completely strapped down to prevent it squirming around.

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Wang Ping, the owner of Mei Mei (Little Sister), has fresh hope of getting the five-month-old teacup poodle back on her feet after a paralysing neck injury suffered three months ago.
“I went to traditional clinics with Mei Mei but the vets said she was too small for surgery,” Wang said.
Doctors initially recommended euthanasia before referring Wang to Jin’s clinic.
“So I came over and she’s much better, at least she can lift her head and crawl a bit now.”

Jin’s practice is based on the feeling that a pet is like a human member of the family, entitled to the same loving care.
“In the past, Chinese people had a very weak notion of what a pet was. But now more and more families treat pets as a companion or family member. So they care so much about their pets, it is not like in the past.”

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That cat has a great 'WTH?' expression.

I think the compelling evidence lies in the fact that most pets won't just bite your ass for sticking a feckin needle in their head.

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Pet acupuncture is on the rise in Asia — thanks to Western medicine
Brittany Levine Beckman
,Mashable•March 3, 2018

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As the veterinary assistant holds down a year-old black tabby named Miso, she strokes his chin, and he purrs with delight. Dr. Yeumee Song takes the cue and inserts a thin needle on top of Miso’s head. The purring amplifies, and Miso’s eyes scrunch into blissful slits.

“This relaxes cats a lot, who are very strong and resilient creatures,” Dr. Song says as she expertly sticks needles into Miso.

Dr. Song is one of two physicians at Amber Vet in Singapore trained in veterinary acupuncture. The practice has been growing in popularity in the pet world, and more recently in Asian countries outside of China thanks partially to a shrinking globe.

While acupuncture falls under Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is thousands of years old, pet acupuncture started gaining traction in the rest of Asia about five years ago. Because veterinarians are trained mainly in Western medicine, Asian vets outside of China mostly received formal acupuncture training after Western universities and veterinary associations introduced it about two decades ago. Although, it was slow to catch on.

“Acupuncture is more popular now than 10 years ago due to rising demand for integrative care. It has become more mainstream now than in the past where it was thought of more as an alternative to Western medicine,” Deborah Prevratil, executive director of the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, says.

When the organization introduced an acupuncture course 20 years ago, only students from the United States, Canada, and Mexico enrolled. But now, there are students from over 12 countries, and IVAS has 2,000 members worldwide.

How pet acupuncture works

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Trained veterinarians insert between 10 to 40 needles about a quarter of a millimeter thick into different points along nerve channels that run from the head to the back foot of their patients. The number of needles depends on the size of the pet and severity of the ailment. One session lasts about 30 minutes and costs about $70 while treatments for humans in Singapore span 45 minutes at half the cost.

“Most of the needles just go under the skin, just close to some of the nerve endings where you get the best response,” says Dr. Song, who received a certificate in veterinary acupuncture from Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, which is based in Florida, last year. It took her about a year and half to complete the training.

“The course is definitely getting more popular,” she says.

One of Dr. Song’s regular patients, Sandy, is a 14-year-old Golden Retriever with vestibular disease. It’s a common condition in older dogs that disrupts their balance, which means Sandy can’t walk on her own. Her owner, Yenni Yap, says Sandy wasn’t responding to the usual treatments, so she decided to try something new a year ago.

Before acupuncture, Yap carried Sandy into the clinic. Now Sandy hobbles in on her own, sometimes leaning on walls for support. “Towards the end of the second week, she regained strength in her back legs and was able to get up on her own,” Yap says. On top of mobility, Yap attributes Sandy recovering from skin issues and a minor stroke to acupuncture.

“[Acupuncture] is not only useful for managing pain, but also for treating skin issues, inflammation, and bladder infections. It even helps younger cats with problems like aggression or phobia,” Dr. Song says.

“I’ve had cats on the table fall asleep right after we put a few needles in” —Dr. Song
In order to quickly calm the cats down, Dr. Song pins the first needle in the center of the cats’ heads. Similar with dogs and humans, it’s known as the “calming point."

“I’ve had cats on the table fall asleep right after we put a few needles in,” says Dr. Song.

The owner of Amber Vet, Dr. Brian Loon, added acupuncture to his clinic’s routine practice three years ago. Since then, he’s seen a steady increase in regular acupuncture patients, from fewer than five per month in the first year to 20 per month now.

In severe cases like spinal problems, Amber Vet uses electro-acupuncture. Doctors clip at least two electrodes on the inserted needles. The clips are hooked up to a machine that sends electric currents to increase stimulation.

The critics and supporters

Pet acupuncture, though popular, is not short of critics. Brennan McKenzie, president of the Evidence-Based Veterinary Medicine Association and author of SkeptVet blog, argues that acupuncture lacks “adequate scientific evidence.”

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A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine in 2006 found no compelling evidence to either support or refute the practice citing inconclusive evidence and limited research. The study collected 31 acupuncture trials and concluded they were lacking. For example, trials with house pets included owners standing next to them, which could lead to the caregiver placebo effect. Owners are also more likely to say the health of their pet has improved if they think their pet has been treated.

But in 2015, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) issued a joint statement saying acupuncture is a “compelling and safe method for pain management.”

Singapore’s Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) doesn’t take a position, but a spokesperson said: “Pet owners are encouraged to seek the advice of their veterinarians when considering alternative therapies for their pets,” in an email.

An alternative tool

When vets exhaust all options, Dr. Loon says, Traditional Chinese Medicine is a valuable tool.

The case closest to Dr. Song’s heart was a 10-week-old white ragdoll kitten paralysed from the neck down after an injury he sustained. The breeder, who brought him to Amber Vet, said there was no way he could sell the kitten. Dr. Song adopted him.

For two weeks, the clinic treated him with a combination of Western medicine and acupuncture. Even though at that time the clinic hadn’t introduced acupuncture, Dr. Song got trained veterinarians to try it on the kitten. He slowly regained some nerve function and could move around on his own.

“He will turn eight this year, and is now generally pain free and has good mobility,” says Dr. Song.

She named him Malakas, the Filipino word for “strong.”

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Acupuncture can control a pet's pain, extend life
By Tommy Martino, via AP Marketplace 7 hrs ago

https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.town...ze=1700%2C1152
In this April 5, 2018 photo, Dr. Lindsey Rewinkel, a 2013 graduate of the veterinary school at Washington State University poses for a photo in Stevensville, Mont. Small-animal acupuncture, including the “e-stim” electrical current is a pain treatment option that’s not readily available in western Montana.
Tommy Martino/The Missoulian via AP

The dachshund was panting in agitation when it came into Sapphire Animal Hospital in spring.

Like many wiener dogs, especially as they age, he suffered from severe neck pain. Dr. Lindsey Rewinkel was ready with a needle.

“The second I start the treatment, he falls asleep,” she said. “The relief is that immediate.”

Small-animal acupuncture, including the “e-stim” electrical current that Rewinkel used for the dachshund, is a pain treatment option that’s not readily available in western Montana. In fact, since the retirement last year of a Missoula veterinarian, the 32-year-old Rewinkel is one of just a handful of certified animal acupuncturists living in the Bitterroot-Missoula-Blackfoot area. And she’s been practicing it since only last fall.

A 2013 graduate of vet school at Washington State University, Rewinkel cut her teeth in the business at Pruyn Veterinary Hospital in Missoula.

“I spent four years in a very busy referral center in Missoula and just got an amazing amount of experience and exposure to a variety of conditions and needs that patients had,” Rewinkel said. “I gravitated toward animals that were needing hospice care and comfort care later in life and, honestly, with western medicine we’re limited a bit with how many tools we have in our tool box to make them feel better.”

Dr. Jenny Elwell-Gerken of Utah, who bought Sapphire Animal Hospital in January 2015, offered the answer: a blend of approaches to animal doctoring that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbs and essential oils.

Rewinkel joined Sapphire in September. Throughout the winter she spent a week each month in a small town in Kansas, taking courses through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society.

“She realized the need for it, saw the results from her previous experience and said, ‘Hey, I’m going to go get certified.’ If it makes animals more comfortable and their owners happy, she’s all for it,” said Conwell McKay, Rewinkel’s fiancé and the logistics manager for Milky Whey, a dairy commodities trading firm in Missoula.

An accomplished equestrian growing up in Richland, Washington, Rewinkel got her undergraduate degree at Eastern Washington University. She gravitated to small-animal medicine once she got to vet school.

Her certification qualifies Rewinkel for administering acupuncture treatments to horses, and she said half her acupuncture calls are for horses, often referred by Pruyn. She’s not a general practitioner with horses, so she teams with vets that are, “so it really is a complement to traditional medicine,” Rewinkel said.

Acupuncture treatment of horse requires few needles, and sometimes none. Her average for dogs is a dozen, and for cats roughly eight.

Rewinkel brings another special element to the practice: She makes house calls, “from Helmville to Hamilton,” as McKay put it.

That’s usually the way it’s done with horses and cows, but not for dogs and cats.

“I’m hoping it starts to be more the norm, just because there are so many benefits to it,” Rewinkel said. “You don’t have the stress of coming into a clinic. You don’t have to wrestle a cat into a carrier or convince a dog to go for a car ride that doesn’t like it.”

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Hold the phone - 'Acupuncture treatment of horse requires few needles, and sometimes none.' If none, is it still acupuncture?

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Paralyzed dog cured through acupuncture
by Jennevieve Fong Friday, October 4th 2019

Photo of Dinky courtesy Table Rock Equine.

MEDFORD, Ore. — Meet Dinky, a two-year-old dachshund who suffered from a spinal cord disease, leaving him partially paralyzed.

"You can see in the video; he can't use his back legs at all," veterinarian Tristin Morgan said. "He was he's such a happy little dog. He was just dragging himself around on the rug."

Morgan said Dinky's owners had seen their regular veterinarian. They said his body did not respond after a month of treatment with Western medicine.

That's when they came to Morgan, who operates Table Rock Equine -- an integrative mobile veterinary practice offering acupuncture on all types of animals.

"I work mostly on horses, a lot on dogs and cats, but I've worked on pigs, sheep, goats, cattle," Morgan said.

After four sessions of electroacupuncture, Morgan said Dinky started to find the pep in his step again.

"He's got a great wagging [in] his tail and running around the room," Morgan said. "We were so excited. He actually could walk after his first appointment. After the first treatment, he was up and walking. He just gradually improved over our next sessions."

When the modern treatments of Western medicine fail, Morgan said Eastern medicine is always another option.

"I go back to Western medicine all the time, but it's so nice to have an integrative approach where we blend Eastern and Western medicine," Morgan said. "That's when I think we get the best results."

Morgan said she expects Dinky to make a full recovery. Table Rock Equine and Animal Acupuncture is a mobile veterinary practice, serving the Jackson and Josephine County communities.

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The vids are embedded.