Understanding Pet Acupuncture: FAQs for Pet Owners

1. What is veterinary acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a safe, natural therapy that involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body. These points correspond to areas that help regulate pain, healing, and internal balance. Veterinary acupuncture is increasingly recognised as a valuable and effective treatment that can be administered alongside and complements conventional veterinary medicine. In veterinary acupuncture, there are 14 major channels (meridians) that run through the body, 12 of which are each linked to a specific organ system, such as the liver, heart, lungs, or kidneys and used to support both physical and emotional health. By stimulating specific points along these meridians, we can help improve organ function, relieve pain, calm anxiety, and promote whole-body healing in pets.

2. How does pet acupuncture work?

Like in humans, acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system and encouraging the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins and serotonin. It also improves circulation, reduces inflammation, relaxes muscles, supports organ function, and helps restore balance in the body’s energy systems. In short, it enhances your pet’s body’s own healing processes, gently and effectively.

3. What conditions can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can support a wide variety of physical and emotional conditions in pets.  It is especially beneficial for senior pets.  Acupuncture can be integrated into a holistic care treatment for your pet, working alongside, and complementary to traditional veterinary medicine. These are some of the conditions where acupuncture can provide therapeutic benefits:

Musculoskeletal Issues: Arthritis, osteoarthritis, mild patella and cruciate issues, hip and elbow dysplasia, Back pain, Soft tissue and muscle strains and sprains

Pain Management:  Chronic pain, trauma and post-surgical pain relief

Neurological Disorders: Intervertebral disc disease and degenerative myelopathy

Digestive Issues: Vomiting and diarrhoea and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Respiratory Issues: Asthma and chronic bronchitis

Urinary & Kidney Support:  Urinary incontinence and chronic kidney disease (supportive care)

Behavioural Support: Anxiety and stress-related behaviours

Other Supportive Uses: Immune system support and senior pet wellness

4. What are the benefits of acupuncture?

Acupuncture offers natural pain relief by releasing endorphins and reducing inflammation. It enhances blood flow, oxygenation, and helps clear waste from the body. Muscle relaxation at needle sites can ease local discomfort. Because it should not interfere with medications, it’s a safe, side-effect-free option alongside conventional treatments, medications and supplements. Pets at any life stage from puppies and kittens to adult and senior pets may benefit from acupuncture and/or moxibustion treatments.

5. Can acupuncture be used with regular veterinary care?

Absolutely. Acupuncture complements conventional treatments and can be used safely alongside medications, surgery, and other therapies. It often helps reduce the need for ongoing medication and enhances recovery.

6. Is pet acupuncture safe?

Yes. Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a trained veterinarian. Dr Amanda Young has undergone additional accredited training in veterinary acupuncture and integrative care. Side effects are rare and mild if they occur.

7. Will acupuncture hurt my pet?

Most pets tolerate acupuncture very well. The needles are extremely fine (much thinner than a vaccine needle), and many pets relax or even fall asleep during treatment. We always monitor your pet’s comfort closely and adjust if needed.

8. What if my pet doesn’t like needles?

Some pets are sensitive or anxious around needles. During an initial 60-minute consultation, we gently assess your pet’s comfort level. If your pet is needle-phobic, we may be able offer moxibustion, a gentle, non-invasive alternative that can still deliver therapeutic benefits. The suitability of moxibustion as an acupuncture alternative is dependent on your pets’ constitution and may not be suitable if your pet has “too much heat” in their system.

9. What is moxibustion and how does it work?

Moxibustion involves warming specific acupuncture points using a smouldering herbal stick made from dried mugwort (moxa). This gentle heat stimulates blood flow, eases muscle tension, reduces pain, and activates healing energy, without using any needles. It is completely painless and often very calming, making it ideal for anxious or sensitive pets.

10. Are there any side effects with acupuncture?

Side effects are uncommon. Some individuals may experience changes in urination or defecation after an acupuncture session, such as more frequent urination or shifts in bowel movements. These changes are often attributed to the body’s detoxification process. Occasionally, pets may experience slight soreness, fatigue, or minor bruising at needle sites—these effects usually pass within 24 hours.

11. What do I need to do to start the process?

Firstly, we offer a comprehensive 1-hour initial consultation with Dr Amanda Young, to fully assess your pet and work through a tailored care package. We believe in gold standard, personalised care as such an initial consultation includes:

• A full medical history and physical exam
• A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) assessment
• An evaluation of your pet’s comfort and tolerance for acupuncture (e.g. whether they may be needle-sensitive)
• A 20-30-minute introductory acupuncture/moxibustion session
• A custom treatment plan designed to suit your pet’s unique needs

This approach ensures your pet receives the most appropriate care from the very beginning. Simply call us to make a booking or book online:

1. Nominate Dr Amanda Young as your preferred Clinician Preference
2. Select the Acupuncture Initial Consultation Option
3. Complete the Acupuncture Booking Information Form (used at the initial consultation in conjunction with your pets’ history)

12. How many sessions will my pet need?

It depends on the condition being treated. Some pets show improvement after 1–3 sessions, while others (especially with chronic issues) may benefit from ongoing treatment over several weeks. After the initial phase, many pets move to monthly maintenance sessions.

13. What should I expect after a session?

Some pets are tired or relaxed afterward, while others may seem more energetic. You might see gradual improvement over several sessions. Every pet responds differently, but most benefit from the cumulative effects of consistent care.

14. Is it covered by pet insurance?

Many pet insurance policies include coverage for complementary or alternative therapies like acupuncture. We recommend checking with your provider for specific details.