Acupuncture for Dogs Anxiety: A Natural Solution for a Calmer Pet

Does your dog struggle with anxiety? Separation stress, loud noises, or vet visits can all cause anxiety in a dog. It can take a toll on your pet’s well-being. However, it is not incurable. What if we told you there is a gentle, drug-free, and non-invasive treatment to help calm your anxious dog? We are, of course, talking about acupuncture for canine anxiety.

Acupuncture has been used in medical practice for thousands of years. Nowadays, it is gaining popularity in veterinary care as a safe and natural way to treat dogs. In this article, we discuss dog anxiety and its common causes and signs. You will also learn about acupuncture for dogs and cats, the health benefits it provides, and more.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about acupuncture for dog anxiety.

What Is Dog Anxiety?

It is an emotion caused by inner turmoil. A pet may experience anxiety due to excessive fear, stress, or nervousness. It can cause a dog to whine, bark, tremble, or pace. They may also show aggressive behavior. Some dogs experience temporary anxiety, like fear of thunderstorms or car rides. Others can have chronic anxiety due to past trauma or separation from their owners.

While medications can help, acupuncture can act as a perfectly capable alternative. This form of therapy offers a natural way to reduce your dog's stress and promote feelings of relaxation.

Common Causes of Anxiety in Dogs

So, you know dogs can suffer from anxiety just like humans. But what causes it? Some of the most common causes of dog anxiety include:

• Separation Stress

Many dogs struggle when separated from their owners. This makes them anxious and leads to excessive barking, destructive behavior, or house accidents.

• Loud Noises

Dogs are sensitive to loud noises. This means they can get anxiety from fireworks and thunderstorms. Some dogs can even develop anxious traits from the sound of vacuum cleaners in households.

• New Environments

Traveling and new environments can make some dogs anxious and restless. They might get scared and unsettled from visiting new places and long car rides. Some dogs can also become restless when taken to vets for routine checkups.

• Changes in Household Routines

Sudden changes to a household routine can make some dogs anxious. These changes can include moving to a new home, the arrival of a new baby, or changes in work schedule. These events are especially stressful for dogs that thrive on routine.

• Past Trauma or Neglect

One of the most common causes behind dog anxiety is past trauma. Rescue dogs or abuse victims commonly suffer from deep-seated anxiety due to past experiences.

• Aging and Cognitive Dysfunction

As dogs grow older, they may start developing anxiety. This can happen due to confusion, memory loss, or reduced senses as part of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).

Identifying the root cause of dog anxiety is the first step in finding the right solution. It helps to choose the best treatment, whether it involves acupuncture or medicine.

Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

Dog anxiety can cause both physical and behavioral symptoms. These signs can help pet owners recognize that their dog is suffering from anxiety. As such, identifying these signs early can help pet parents find ways to manage their dog's stress.

Physical Signs of Anxiety

An anxious dog may show some physical signs of stress. These signs include:

• Excessive Panting and Drooling

• Trembling and Shaking

• Restlessness and Pacing

• Tucked Tail and Flattened Ears

Behavioral Signs of Anxiety

Dogs that suffer from anxiety and stress also show behavioral changes. If you notice any of the following behaviors in your dog, the chances are high that your dog is suffering from anxiety attacks.

• Hiding or Avoiding Contact

• Destructive Behavior

• Excessive Barking or Whining

• Aggression

The Long-Term Impact of Chronic Anxiety

Chronic anxiety can have long-term impacts on a dog's health. It can lead to physical issues such as:

1. Digestive Issues

Anxiety and stress can cause a dog's digestive functions to weaken over time. This causes problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.

2. Weakened Immune System

Unmanaged anxiety also weakens a dog's immune system. As a result, an anxious dog may be more prone to frequent illnesses and infections.

3. Heart Problems

Anxiety causes heart problems in dogs. Prolonged stress can increase a dog's heart rate and blood pressure. This can have serious ramifications on a dog's health.

If your dog is showing signs of anxiety, early intervention is key. Holistic treatments like acupuncture can provide relief without the need for medication.

What Is Acupuncture for Dogs?

It is an ancient treatment practice used in veterinary medicine. Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on a dog's body. This stimulates the body's natural healing process.

This practice has been used for thousands of years. It is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it was used to balance energy, or “Qi.” Over time, acupuncture has been adapted for animals. Today, it is used in modern veterinary care to treat conditions like arthritis, back pain, hip dysplasia, and others. Acupuncture for dogs is a safe process when performed by Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and trained acupuncturists.

How Does Acupuncture Work for Dogs?

Although rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been adapted by the West in recent decades. It is a commonly used practice in modern veterinary treatment. It helps with numerous health conditions, such as pain, inflammation, skin conditions, respiratory problems, and more. Acupuncture can also increase the white blood cell (WBC) count in the body and boost the immune system. This ensures a better overall well-being of a dog and peace of mind for dog owners.

The Western Medicine Explanation

Medically speaking, acupuncture stimulates the body's nervous system. The process involves a certified veterinarian inserting thin, sterile needles into targeted acupuncture points on a dog's body. These points are connected to nerves, blood vessels, and muscles. When the needles are inserted, they release endorphins in the brain and body. These are "feel-good" chemicals that decrease pain and inflammation and improve mood. The process also improves blood flow and promotes the body's natural healing system.

The TCM Perspective

According to ancient Chinese beliefs, acupuncture restores balance to the flow of energy throughout the body. The needles are inserted into specific points along the body's energy pathways. It is believed that these pathways, or "meridians," restore harmony when disrupted. As a result, acupuncture improves health and well-being.

Whichever perspective you prefer, the common ground is that acupuncture helps the body to heal. The needle placement leads to a release of endorphins. It improves circulation in the body and induces pain-relieving effects. Acupuncture also helps with numerous other conditions, such as:

• Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

• Hip Dysplasia

• Chronic Pain

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

• Post-surgical Recovery

• Nerve Pain

• Allergies and Skin Conditions

• Mobility Issues

• Gastrointestinal Disorders.

How Does Acupuncture Help with Dog Anxiety?

Acupuncture therapy can be an effective treatment plan for a stressed or anxious dog. When the acupuncture needles are inserted, endorphins are released in the body. This reduces overactive stress responses and has a calming effect on the nervous system. The effects of acupuncture also include regulating hormones and neurotransmitters to improve your dog's mood. Moreover, this type of treatment option reduces pain in animals. This promotes relaxation and helps calm down an anxious dog. As a result, your dog's sleep and overall health condition will improve.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Anxious Dogs

Acupuncture treatment has several potential benefits for anxious dogs. We already talked about the health benefits, such as pain management and reduced inflammation. Some additional benefits over traditional medication include:

1. No Side Effects

Acupuncture in dogs has no side effects. Where traditional sedatives can cause drowsiness, acupuncture is a drug-free process that is free from such aftereffects.

2. Safe for Dogs of All Ages

Acupuncture may be used safely for dogs of all ages. Whether your dog is a puppy, a senior, or has a chronic condition, you can consider acupuncture without any concerns. Find a veterinarian certified to perform acupuncture, and you have nothing to worry about.

3. Enhances Overall Well-Being

Medical acupuncture can be used to help dogs with several health conditions, not just anxiety. According to the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA), this treatment option can help with a range of health conditions. These include neurological, musculoskeletal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and more problems.

4. Can Be Combined With Other Treatments

Acupuncture may be used alongside other treatments. Many human patients use it as a complementary therapy. The same principle applies to pet dogs. As such, acupuncture can accompany other forms of treatment, such as behavioral training, Western medicine, and dietary changes.

What to Expect in an Acupuncture Session

If you are considering acupuncture for your pet dog, you should know what to expect. In this section, we discuss what acupuncture sessions may look like.

• Initial Consultation

The first acupuncture step involves the veterinarian assessing your dog's condition. They will evaluate your pet's medical history and suggest the best treatment plan. You should also discuss any existing health conditions or medications with the vet at this stage.

• Treatment Session

Once the session starts, the vet will insert thin needles into specific points in your dog's body. These needles will stimulate the nervous system, improve blood flow, and release endorphins to reduce pain and stress. Regular acupuncture sessions may last between 20 and 40 minutes.

• Dog's Reaction

When the needles are inserted, some dogs may feel a slight tingling sensation. However, most dogs enter a relaxed state soon after the session begins. The release of endorphins has a calming effect and helps a dog to relax.

• Post-Session Behavior

After the session is over, your dog may sleep more than usual. It may also appear calmer than before. This, again, is linked to the release of endorphins. These are the body's "feel-good" chemicals that help a dog to calm down and relax.

Finding a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

When you decide on acupuncture for your dog's treatment, you should find a qualified acupuncturist. But how can you find the right professional for the procedure? The answer lies in the tips below. Following these tips can help you find a certified veterinary acupuncturist (CVA) for your furry friend.

• Look for certification from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) or Chi Institute.

• Check their reviews and testimonials from previous pet owners

• Ask about their experience with using acupuncture to treat anxiety in dogs

• Ensure the veterinary medical clinic follows proper hygiene and safety protocols.

The right acupuncturist will be able to advise you on the best options and frequency of treatment for your dog. They will also discuss the risks associated with acupuncture (if any) with you before starting the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Soon Can I See Results in My Dog?

It depends on your dog's condition. Some dogs show calmness immediately after a session starts. For other dogs, multiple visits may be needed before you see noticeable changes.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Not at all. The needles are very thin, and most dogs barely feel them entering the body. Many dogs can also fall asleep during the session.

How Do I Know if My Dog Is a Good Candidate for Acupuncture?

Dogs with mild to severe anxiety are good candidates for acupuncture. Moreover, dogs that show stress-related behaviors or are sensitive to medication are also ideal candidates.

Conclusion on Acupuncture for Dogs Anxiety

To summarize, acupuncture is a safe, natural, and effective treatment option for anxious dogs. It helps reduce pain and stress and calms down anxious dogs. The procedure can relax dogs and improve their moods and overall well-being. It is also an integrative approach to better health conditions that has no side effects and is safe for dogs of all ages. Make sure to do your due diligence before choosing an acupuncturist. Go to the sessions with a clear picture of what to expect, and watch your dog overcome their anxiety and stress.

Peaceful Veterinary Care ensures expert and caring acupuncture services for your dog. If you are located in San Diego, reach out to us. Our highly qualified veterinarian acupuncturists can help improve your dog's health, either at our clinic or in your home. Browse our website for more information or call us to schedule an appointment.