Acupuncture FAQ's

• What is acupuncture?
  Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine where very fine stainless-steel needles are inserted into specific points on the body to affect the flow of Qi (or energy) with the intention of dispersing stagnant energy, increasing the movement of energy, or balancing energy to help the body tap into its own innate healing abilities.
• What are the requirements for being an animal acupuncturist?
  An animal acupuncturist must graduate from an accredited acupuncture school (which includes at least 1800 hours of classroom instruction and clinical experience), become licensed, take an animal acupuncture course (which includes additional classroom instruction and clinical experience specifically for animals), and then apply to the Board of Acupuncture to be certified. In the state of Maryland, an acupuncturist can then practice on animals as a Certified Animal Acupuncturist.
• Is acupuncture only for dogs with physical problems?
  Definitely not! Acupuncture can be a wonderful way to help your dog stay as healthy as possible.
• What are some of the benefits of acupuncture?
  Acupuncture supports the immune system, helps reduce chronic pain, helps speed recovery after surgery, helps relieve digestive troubles, acts preventively to help ensure good health, enhances mental clarity and focus ,increases circulation of Qi (energy) and blood, helps support emotional balance, and helps improve overall quality of life.
• Are there any side effects from acupuncture?
  No. One of the benefits of acupuncture is that there are no side effects.
• How often should I bring my dog for acupuncture?
  For the best results, your dog should receive an acupuncture treatment at least once a week for four to five weeks. During this initial period of treatment, you and your dog's acupuncturist will discuss how your dog is responding to the acupuncture treatments and will evaluate the frequency of future visits. Generally most dogs will do well with extending the time between treatments fairly quickly after this initial period.
• What do I need to do bring with me to my dog's first acupuncture appointment?
  You will need to bring your dog's shot record with current Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella vaccinations. A dog will need to have been seen by a veterinarian no more than 14 days before the first acupuncture treatment in order to begin treatment. You must bring a receipt or letter from your veterinarian with a current date to meet the above requirement. Treatment cannot begin without these documents.