Pet Acupuncture

Pet Acupuncture: A Natural Way to Support Your Animal’s Health

At West Ridge Veterinary Practice, we’re proud to offer acupuncture for pets as part of our commitment to holistic, well-rounded veterinary care. Acupuncture is a safe, gentle treatment that can help relieve pain, support recovery, and improve quality of life—especially for pets dealing with chronic conditions. We offer acupunture at both our Winkleigh and Witheridge practices

What Is Acupuncture for Pets?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing responses. This technique, which has been used in human medicine for thousands of years, is increasingly recognised as a valuable tool in veterinary care too.

It works by encouraging circulation, easing muscle tension, reducing inflammation, and triggering the release of the body’s own pain-relieving chemicals.

When Is Acupuncture Useful?

Acupuncture can be used to help manage a variety of conditions in dogs, cats, and other animals, including:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Back problems and muscle stiffness
• Post-surgical recovery
• Chronic pain
• Neurological conditions
• Lameness or mobility issues
• Digestive problems or incontinence (in some cases)

It can be used alone or alongside other treatments, such as medication or physiotherapy, to improve outcomes and comfort.

Is It Safe and Does It Hurt?

Yes, acupuncture is very safe when performed by a trained veterinary professional. Most pets tolerate it well and often become quite relaxed during sessions—some even fall asleep! The needles are extremely fine, and insertion is usually painless.

What to Expect During a Session

Each session typically lasts around 20–30 minutes, and the number of sessions needed will depend on your pet’s condition. Some pets may show improvement after just one or two treatments, while others may benefit from ongoing sessions.

Before starting, we’ll carry out a full health assessment to determine whether acupuncture is suitable for your pet and tailor a plan to their needs.

Meet Our Acupuncture Vet

We’re proud to have two veterinary surgeons trained in acupuncture who offer this service as part of a broader treatment approach—especially for older pets or those living with chronic pain. We have Mark at our Witheridge practice and Marcella who is based at Winkleigh.

Book an Appointment

If you're interested in acupuncture for your dog, cat, or other pet, we're here to help. Call us on 01884 860236 or 01837 83240 or speak to your vet during your next visit to learn more about how this gentle, effective treatment could support your pet’s wellbeing.

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