Our team at Catawba Animal Clinic offers veterinary acupuncture treatment for cats and dogs to relieve pain and supplement other rehabilitative therapies.

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Acupuncture to Support Healing 

Acupuncture has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to rebalance energy in animals' bodies and promote the healing process for pets.

This ancient form of medicine is based on the philosophy that an imbalance of vital energies in the body can cause illness.

Our vets in Rock Hill can use acupuncture to help improve blood flow, increasing oxygenation in tissues. 

Veterinary Acupuncture, Rock Hill

Our Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist in Rock Hill

Dr. Kandace Koukoutsis, DVM, is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture and is passionate about helping pets heal from various painful conditions. Acupuncture therapy can often be used in conjunction with medical treatments for effective pain management. 

Meet Dr. Kandace N. Koukoutsis

The Acupuncture Technique

Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into an animal's body at precise points called meridians, where the blood vessels converge with the nerves. The needles help guide vital energy along these meridians, supporting the nervous system and promoting circulation while enhancing the body's healing abilities. 

Common Acupuncture Uses

Our vets often recommend the use of acupuncture or other types of Chinese medicine for a number of issues, including:

  • Pain Management

    Medical treatments such as chemotherapy can feel very uncomfortable for your pet. They will often be combined with acupuncture in an effort to relieve some discomfort, helping your cat or dog to fight their illness. 

  • Musculoskeletal Issues

    Acupuncture can often be used for injury rehabilitation. Conditions such as arthritis, nerve injuries and hip dysplasia also tend to respond well to acupuncture. 

  • Dermatology & Skin Issues

    Acupuncture treatment can help encourage increased circulation, which can help hot spots, granulomas and allergic dermatitis. It can also improve healing and reduce pain, leading to less itching and subsequent over-grooming. 

  • Gastrointestinal Issues

    Acupuncture may stimulate digestive secretions, which helps to promote healthy digestive activity. Conditions such as diarrhea or nausea may benefit from increased blood flow. 

  • Respiratory Issues

    The immune-calming and anti-inflammatory capabilities of acupuncture treatment can improve asthma, allergies and other conditions.

The Benefits

Acupuncture for pets provides a number of benefits, including:

  • Pets in poor health will benefit from the lack of systemic side effects
  • Lowers the amount of waste products produced
  • Helps relax muscles and relieve pain
  • Improves metabolic waste removal from the body 
  • Promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues 

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