Acupuncture for Companion Animals

We hope this very brief orientation helps familiarize you as you consider this mode of treatment for your companion animal.

Should I pursue acupuncture for my animal? As with humans, acupuncture can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, though it is most commonly associated with treatment for chronic pain. Whether your companion animal would benefit from acupuncture depends on the medical problems presented, and his/her medical history. In addition, some veterinarians may recommend acupuncture for your pet’s condition and even refer you to a veterinary acupuncturist. Either way, a consultation with a veterinary acupuncturist is the best way of determining whether your companion may benefit from this modality.

How is acupuncture different from drugs such as ____ for treating pain? Used as prescribed, medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a proven method of relieving pain. Medications can also have their own issues: they can be costly, they can be difficult to administer, they may not be as effective as we’d like, or there may be concerns about side effects. While acupuncture should not be seen as a replacement for medications, it can be an effecitve treatment to complement a patient care plan. Think of it as an additional tool in a veterinarian’s toolbox to improve your companion’s quality of life.

What if my companion animal doesn’t like needles? As a general rule, if your pet does not mind the handling needed during a routine conventional veterinary visit, they should be fine with acupuncture. Most animals are more receptive to “needling” than we’d think - often more than many people! Oftentimes, anxious pets calm down with subsequent visits and associate the sessions with safety, relaxation, and treats. (We’re not above using bribery/positive reinforcement!) To maximize comfort for your companion, we conduct acupuncture sessions in a quiet, calm environment, usually one patient in our facility at a time. During acupuncture sessions, Dr. Tran closely monitors your companion’s reactions and tailors treatment accordingly throughout the session.

What should I expect during an acupuncture consultation at The Family Vet? Our consultation visit is a multi-step process that begins once you schedule your appointment. We ask that clients reserve 90 minutes for this first visit. Please see the steps below.

What are the costs for an acupuncture visit? The cost for an initial new patient visit is $248. (Subsequent treatments are $90.) Please read below for what is included in this fee. If you’d like to schedule an acupuncture assessment, or if you have any other questions, please email our office, staff@thefamilyvet.net.

Step 1: Evaluation of Medical Reccords and History

After scheduling your appointment, we’ll work on gathering your companion’s medical history. Most acupuncture consultations require recent x-rays, and all require a recent medical workup with your current veterinarian. Acupuncture and herbal consultations are performed only with animals that already have an established, current relationship with a family (“regular”) veterinarian. You will also receive a questionnaire from us about your companion’s home environment and lifestyle. Submission of this questionnaire and complete medical records are required of all initial consultations.

Step 2 Physical Exam, Assessment, and Discuss Treatment Options and Expected Outcomes.

Is acupuncture a good choice for my pet? What should I expect from treatments? How often will treatments be and what are the costs? At the time of the initial consultation Dr. Tran will address these questions as well as discuss treatment options, desired outcomes, and expectations.

Step 3: Design a treatment plan and initiate treatment

Dr. Tran will work with you in creating a treatment plan and schedule that is tailored to you and your companions. An initial introductory session is included during this visit to assess your companion’s receptivity to acupuncture and assists in the treatment planning process. After, we’ll provide you with clear instructions, answer any questions, and provide you with treatment recommendations.