Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt? Will my pet allow it?
The needles used for acupuncture are very small and most animals do not feel the insertion. Many pets twitch their skin at the acupuncture site, which is a normal response. Rarely, a pet may be too sensitive for needles. In those cases, Dr. Wilson may use another form of treatment such as laser-acupuncture, aqua-acupuncture, or acupressure to achieve the same goals. After the first few needles most pets relax, and many will fall asleep during treatment.
How long does it take acupuncture to work?
Some acute conditions can be resolved in 1-2 treatments while some chronic conditions may require long-term acupuncture. Most pets will have improvement in their condition within 3-6 sessions. If there is no improvement your pet’s condition within that time frame, Dr. Wilson will recommend another approach.
What does a typical appointment look like?
Your first visit is usually the longest and can last anywhere from 60-90 minutes. Dr. Wilson will take a full history on your pet and perform a comprehensive Western medical exam and traditional Chinese medicine exam. After discussing and formulating a care plan with you, Dr. Wilson will perform acupuncture and any other treatments necessary. Follow up appointments are generally shorter, and last 30-45 minutes.
Do you offer any vaccines, lab work, surgery, or conventional wellness services?
By focusing exclusively on acupuncture and traditional Chinese veterinary medicine, Dr. Wilson is able to offer the best treatment to complement Western therapies offered by your family veterinarian. This makes for a truly integrative approach to veterinary medicine for the benefit of your pet.
What should I do if my pet is having an emergency?
As an appointment based, mobile practice, we are unable to see emergencies. If your pet is experiencing an emergency, please contact your family veterinarian or local emergency veterinary clinic.
PBS Spotlight on Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine