What is acupressure and how does it help your pet?
WHY DOG ACUPRESSURE?
Having dogs with chronic pain issues has caused me to investigate alternative methods of pain relief since the pills don’t always help. I’ve taken my dogs to vets, asked tons of questions, and researched on the internet to find new ideas. Some of these methods have helped more than others. But usually, it was hit-and-miss.
Dog acupressure and its sibling, acupuncture, are both tools you have available to help your dogs feel better. They use the same theory but work in slightly different ways. Acupuncture is done with needles and is therefore only done by licensed professionals. Acupressure is done using hands, so it isn't invasive. Acupressurists are educated in the same principles, but simple protocols can be taught to the individual pet owner.
HOW DOES ACUPRESSURE HELP?
Acupressure stimulates blood circulation, relaxes muscles, and removes toxins from the body. All of these help decrease the pain your dog might be having. Even better, it also helps manage stress, depression, and other mental disorders. And since they don’t involve chemical substances being put into the body, there are few side effects.
DO THESE THERAPIES WORK WITH TRADITIONAL VETERINARY MEDICINE?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a much different take on wellness than we’re used to here in the U.S. TCM works more with preventing illness than treating symptoms after the problem has already started. The theories are quite different, but the desire to heal is still there.
Veterinary medicine is widely accepted in the U.S., but many vets are being educated in TCM as well. While the modalities are very different, they can complement each other to help your pet be healthy and comfortable.
WHAT DO DOGS THINK OF ACUPRESSURE?
Our dogs relax and enjoy their acupressure sessions. And they experience results right away in a lot of cases. Whether it's arthritis, anxiety due to a thunderstorm, or something else, they don't mind it a bit.
IS IT WORTH THE EXPENSE AND EFFORT?
Acupressure for dogs is getting much more mainstream here in the U.S. You can usually find a practitioner within a reasonable distance who’s trained in it. And most dog owners can take advantage of this therapy without breaking the bank. For these reasons, it’s gaining momentum since it seems to be helping.
Most of us have so much to learn about TCM since it is so very different from what is familiar. Things like Yin and Yang, time of day, seasons related to conditions, “dry” and “wet” conditions; are terms that are completely foreign to those of us who aren’t familiar with TCM.
Having learned theory and practiced for a bit, acupressure is a wonderful tool to have in your toolbox when your pet needs help. And overall, my dogs are doing much better because of it, so I would say it’s well worth the effort.
Have you had acupuncture or acupressure done on your dog? What did you think of it? Tell me about it in the comments below.
