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Pet Acupuncture: A Gentle, Powerful Tool for Pain Relief and Healing

February 9, 2026

At Veterinary Healing Center of El Dorado Hills, we’re dedicated to thoughtful integrative care that enhances your pet’s comfort, mobility, and quality of life. One of our most effective gentle therapies is pet acupuncture—a proven treatment that can greatly help dogs and cats with pain, mobility issues, and chronic conditions.

If you’re new to acupuncture or curious whether it could help your pet, this post is a great place to start.

What Is Pet Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a component of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that has been used for thousands of years. It involves placing very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and restore balance.

From a modern medical perspective, acupuncture works by:

Stimulating nerves and muscles
Increasing blood flow
Releasing natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory substances
Supporting the body’s own healing mechanisms

Most pets tolerate acupuncture extremely well. Many relax during treatment, and some even fall asleep.

Common Conditions We Treat with Acupuncture

While acupuncture can benefit a wide range of conditions, two of the most common ailments we treat at our hospital are osteoarthritis and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common chronic condition in aging dogs and cats. It occurs when joint cartilage wears down, causing pain, stiffness, inflammation, and reduced mobility.

Acupuncture can help pets with osteoarthritis by:

Reducing joint pain and inflammation
Improving mobility and range of motion
Decreasing stiffness, especially after rest
Reducing reliance on medications in some cases

Many pet parents notice improvements such as easier rising, a greater willingness to go on walks, improved comfort at home, and a brighter overall demeanor.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae degenerate or herniate, potentially causing pain, weakness, or even paralysis. It is commonly seen in breeds such as Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis, but it can affect any dog.

Acupuncture is frequently used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for IVDD and may:

Help manage pain and inflammation
Support nerve function and healing
Improve mobility and coordination
Complement medical or surgical treatment plans

For some pets, acupuncture can significantly enhance comfort and recovery during conservative (non-surgical) management or post-surgical rehabilitation.

What to Expect During Your Pet’s Acupuncture Visit

Each acupuncture session begins with a thorough evaluation of your pet’s medical history, current condition, and overall health. Treatments are tailored to the individual pet and their specific needs.

Sessions typically last 20–40 minutes. The number of treatments recommended depends on the condition being treated, its duration, and your pet's response. Some pets show improvement quickly, while others benefit from a series of treatments over time.

Acupuncture is often used alongside conventional treatments such as medications, physical rehabilitation, laser therapy, or nutritional support.

Is Acupuncture Safe for Pets?

Yes. When performed by a trained veterinary professional, acupuncture is very safe. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild, such as temporary soreness or fatigue after a session.

Our goal is always to improve your pet’s comfort and quality of life while working closely with you to determine the most appropriate care plan.

Integrative Care for Whole-Pet Wellness

At Veterinary Healing Center of El Dorado Hills, we believe in combining the best of conventional and integrative medicine. Acupuncture is one of the many ways we help pets feel better, move better, and enjoy life more fully.

If your pet is struggling with arthritis, IVDD, or chronic pain—or if you’re simply curious whether acupuncture could help—we’re happy to talk with you and answer your questions.

Your pet’s comfort, healing, and happiness are always our priority.