My name is Lisa Wong and I am one of the veterinarians at Forest Hill Animal Clinic. I am also a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and am pleased to be able to offer this additional treatment modality to our patients at the clinic.

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine therapy. It is defined as the insertion of needles into specific body points to produce a healing response. These points are called acupuncture points or acupoints. The technique of acupuncture has been practised in both animals and human beings for thousands of years in China. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that the health of the body depends on the balance of Qi (pronounced Chee), which is the life force or vital energy. If the flow of Qi in the body is interrupted or blocked illnesses will occur. The goal of acupuncture, therefore, is to stimulate various acupoints in order to restore the proper flow of Qi.

Acupuncture is useful in treating many medical conditions in our pets: musculoskeletal problems such as osteoarthritis and intervertebral disc disease; neurological problems such as seizure; respiratory problems such as feline asthma; behavioral problems such as anxiety; various other acute and chronic issues. The frequency and number of treatments needed depends on the nature and severity of the disease. Each session, on average, takes 30 to 60 minutes. The insertion of needles is considered painless and, once placed, most pets no longer notice them.

Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure provided that it is administered by a qualified practitioner. It is very important that a proper medical diagnosis first be reached and that the condition of the animal is constantly re­evaluated by the veterinarian. Acupuncture can be used successfully in conjunction with conventional Veterinary Medicine.

If you are interested in acupuncture treatments for your pets, consider coming into the clinic for an assessment.