Acupuncture For Dogs?!

Bone up on the facts about alternative medicine for your pet.

- Laurel Leicht

FOUR IN TEN OF US routinely use treatments like yoga, herbs, meditation, Reiki, and massage to cure what ails us, and now some of these are going to the dogs. Experts say complementary therapies may help pups of all ages, sizes, and breeds who are suffering from discomfort of the body or mind. Just be sure to check with your vet before proceeding. “Veterinarians understand not only the potential benefits, but also the potential harm an alternative treatment can cause,” says Jerry Klein, DVM, chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club. Plus, they should be attuned to what’s best for your particular dog. “Treating a six-pound geriatric Pekingese with metabolic issues can be different from treating a mostly healthy 3-year-old Newfoundland,” notes Klein. If your vet isn’t open to thinking outside the box, Klein suggests getting a second opinion or consulting the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (ahvma.org), a group of vets who advocate for the use of integrative medicine. Here are some popular alternative therapies for four-legged friends:

ACUPUNCTURE