When to Consider Acupunture

Dear Doctor: In your last article, you mentioned acupuncture and chiropractic care for arthritis in animals. Do you know if these treatments can help with other conditions for pets (my dog has allergies)?

Signed,
Roger in Waupaca

I had always thought of these modalities as options for neurologic and joint problems, but was amazed to find out that there are many indications for acupuncture and chiropractic services. I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical when my certified veterinary technician, Jamie, wanted to take her Dalmatian (Karma) to a chiropractor for treatment of urinary incontinence. After a few adjustments by Dr. Nikki Johnson at Oakview Veterinary Medical Center, Karma's incontinence resolved without the need for any medications. Jamie continues to have Karma adjusted every few weeks to keep her from leaking urine. I was impressed!

Chiropractic care can be provided for the typical neuromuscular problems, but will also benefit patients with lick granulomas, anal gland infections, recurrent ear infections, urine leaking and digestive problems. Some patients require a single treatment, while others require a series of adjustments or routine maintenance.

My other certified veterinary technician, Lisa, has a Beagle (Libby) that suffers from allergies of some sort. We started all of the usual treatments, and even had her evaluated by a Veterinary Dermatologist, but Libby's symptoms actually worsened. Libby was uncomfortable, and we were at a loss for treatment. Dr. Patty Glover did acupuncture for Libby, and her intense itching stopped that same day! Libby does require treatment every few weeks, and the response is not always as dramatic, but she is much better due to acupuncture.

In addition to treatment for allergies and inflammatory conditions, acupuncture also has a broad scope of therapeutic indications. It can help patients with a history of vomiting or diarrhea, various skin diseases and lick granulomas, incontinence, hormone imbalances, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. There are many success stories associated with treatment of patients with intervertebral disc disease. Acupuncture can be used for pain relief, and is beneficial for surgical recovery. It is also advocated for restoring general balance in any pet that is in the "senior" years.

As you can see, there are a number of medical conditions that could include the use of chiropractic care or acupuncture as a part of the treatment plan. It is always best to find a certified therapist or veterinarian that is specially trained to perform these procedures on pets. In our area, we are lucky to have Dr. Nikki Johnson (chiropractic) at Oakview Veterinary Medical Center, and Dr. Patty Glover (acupuncture and chiropractic) at Woodhaven Animal Health. Best wishes for improvement in your pet's allergies.