Eastern medicine is a practice that takes into consideration all aspects of a pet’s health, including their environment, diet, and physical assessment. Acupuncture and eastern herbal therapy are part of this practice. Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterile needles into points on the body that are dense in free nerve endings, blood vessels, and lymphatic tissue. These needles are very thin and are rarely painful. By inserting these needles, the area is stimulated and releases beta-endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters. These molecules help relieve pain, promote tissue healing, decrease inflammation, and support the immune system. Chronic conditions may require several treatments before notable improvement is seen. Eastern herbal therapy is often used with acupuncture because it can enhance its effectiveness. Conditions that can be helped using eastern medicine include musculoskeletal, neurological, gastrointestinal, dermatological, cancer, and hospice care, as well as others
