Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a safe, effective adjunct for pets that reduces pain, improves mobility, and boosts quality of life. It promotes natural healing for chronic arthritis, soft-tissue or nerve injuries, and inflammation, often cutting medication needs and improving appetite, sleep, and energy. Helpful for IVDD, arthritis, post-op recovery, and some nerve issues, it complements regular veterinary care. Performed by Dr. Kristine Haroldson, a trained veterinary acupuncturist, in our West Fargo clinic, treatments are gentle, well tolerated, and individualized.
Why consider acupuncture?
Veterinary acupuncture bridges ancient therapeutic wisdom and modern neurophysiology. From a scientific standpoint, inserting hair-thin needles into specific points on the body—known as acupoints—directly stimulates dense concentrations of nerve endings, blood vessels, and mast cells. These acupoints typically correspond to regions where peripheral nerves penetrate deep fascia or course alongside blood vessels. By stimulating these sites, acupuncture sends bioelectric signals through the central nervous system, triggering a cascade of physiological responses.
This sensory stimulation prompts the brain and spinal cord to release neurochemicals, including endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which modulate nerve signals and alter pain perception. Concurrently, acupuncture dilates small vessels in targeted tissues, boosting local blood circulation, increasing oxygenation, and facilitating the clearance of metabolic waste and inflammatory mediators. The overall result is a systemic reset that promotes autonomic balance, tissue repair, and immune regulation.
How Acupuncture Relieves Pain in Pets
For pets suffering from acute injuries or chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc disease, and muscle sprains, acupuncture offers targeted, drug-free pain management. The localized needle micro-trauma prompts an immediate anti-inflammatory response, relaxing taut muscle fibers and reducing swelling around painful joints. By blocking nociceptive (pain signal) pathways in the spinal cord, acupuncture dampens the pain sensation before it reaches conscious awareness, bringing tangible comfort to stiff, aching pets.
Beyond immediate local relief, acupuncture elevates systemic pain thresholds, allowing pets to move more freely without relying solely on pharmaceutical interventions. It works synergistically alongside treatments that are considered more conventional—such as NSAIDs, exercise, or cool compresses—improving overall mobility, energy levels, and quality of life for aging or recovering animals.
Does it hurt?
Most pets feel minimal to no discomfort. The needles used are micro-thin—much smaller than those used for vaccinations or blood draws—and inserting them typically causes only a brief tickle or subtle sensation. Many dogs and cats relax completely during their treatment, often growing sleepy or falling asleep as endorphins are released.
How long does a session last?
Initial consultations generally take 45 to 60 minutes to allow for a thorough examination and treatment planning. Follow-up sessions usually last 20 to 30 minutes, with the needles remaining in place for about 15 to 20 minutes while your pet rests comfortably.
How many treatments will my pet need before we see results?
While some pets display noticeable improvement after the first or second visit, most benefit from an initial series of 3 to 6 weekly sessions. Chronic conditions like arthritis typically require ongoing maintenance treatments.
Is it safe, and can it be combined with other treatments?
Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a veterinary acupuncturist. It integrates seamlessly with other medical care, including medications, rehabilitation, and supplements.
Interested in acupuncture for your pet?
Reach out to us with some basic information, and a member of our team will contact you within 2 business days to get an appointment scheduled with Dr. Haroldson!