What should I expect on the first visit?

Dr. Wyss requests that if possible, your pet reside in a quiet room free of other pets or distractions. The first visit will consist of briefly confirming details of your pet’s medical history and records. Dr. Wyss will then ask you about your pet’s current medical status, and will perform a full physical exam.

After determining the most appropriate acupuncture points for your pet, Dr. Wyss will then insert acupuncture needles.

How long will each acupuncture treatment last?

Needle placement takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Depending upon your pet’s condition, the needles will then remain in your pet for 12-25 minutes. It is optimal that your pet stay reasonably still after the acupuncture needles have been inserted. The entire first visit takes 1-1½ hours, with subsequent visits lasting approximately 45-60 minutes.

How many acupuncture treatments will my pet need?

The number of acupuncture treatments your pet will need will be based upon your pet’s specific medical condition. Pets receiving acupuncture for the first time and suffering from chronic disease or recovering from a trauma or surgery often need consecutive treatments, spaced a few days to up to ten days apart. This is because it takes time for the body to heal and for neurotransmitters such as serotonin to be released. After the initial series of treatments, your pet’s condition will be reassessed, with subsequent treatments usually recommended once every three-six weeks.

Will my pet accept the acupuncture needles?

Most animals are receptive to acupuncture needles, but some points can cause local discomfort upon insertion of needles, a sensation that usually dissipates and yields to relaxation. Most dogs tolerate the needles well. Some cats are resistant to treatment, but relax after all of the needles are inserted. For those patients who do not tolerate acupuncture needles, aquapuncture, in which Vitamin B12 is injected into acupuncture points, may be recommended as an alternative to traditional dry needling.