Acupuncture is the ancient art of placing fine needles into specific parts of the body. It has been used by Chinese and other Eastern Cultures for many thousands of years as a component of their health care system. Since acupuncture is a complementary therapy it can safely be combined with conventional veterinary treatment.

The benefits of acupuncture treatment include:

• Pain relief
• Increased ability of the body to recover from disease
• Anti-inflammatory
• Increased resistance to disease

Acupuncture can legally only be carried out on animals by a qualified Veterinary Surgeon.

Horses are generally very responsive to acupuncture and respond well to treatment, frequently appearing almost sedated whilst the needles are in place. Acupuncture is most commonly used to treat musculoskeletal injuries in our equine patients and can also be used to influence the functioning of the internal organs and immune system.

Acupuncture can be a used alone or in combination with traditional veterinary medicines.

Many insurance companies will cover the cost of acupuncture treatment, however please check your pet or equine policy.

For further information please download our acupuncture information leaflet, which can be found in the Links panel on the right hand side..

To discuss your individual requirements please contact Rachel Forster, at the surgery, who has been trained by and is registered with the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists (ABVA).