As your dog grows into their senior years, you want to do everything you can to keep them healthy, happy, and comfortable. Caring for an elderly dog often includes regular vet visits, exercise, supplements, and high-quality dog food. One treatment option that's great for pets, and especially for elderly dogs, is pet acupuncture. Pet acupuncture is a gentle, non-invasive treatment with no side effects that can have a variety of benefits for senior pups. 

Pet Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Pain

As dogs get older, they often begin to experience more pain in their joints. In fact, one in four dogs has arthritis, and this percentage is much higher for senior dogs. In addition to joint pain or arthritis, your dog could be suffering from discomfort because of other conditions, such as cancer, hip dysplasia, or spinal conditions.

Pet acupuncture works to relieve pain by stimulating specific points of the body, which in turn stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like endorphins and serotonin. Known as "feel-good" neurotransmitters, these provide pain relief as well as a boost in mood. The result is that your dog's pain symptoms are greatly reduced.

Pet Acupuncture Can Help Ease Anxiety

For similar reasons, pet acupuncture can also help reduce your pet's anxiety and stress levels. As dogs become older and experience their senses and mobility diminishing, it's natural for them to experience some anxiety or even depression and cognitive decline.

Because pet acupuncture is a deeply relaxing experience and relieves pain symptoms, it often leaves elderly dogs feeling more calm, happy, and relaxed. These benefits are even more noticeable when you schedule regular pet acupuncture appointments for your senior pup.

Pet Acupuncture Complements Other Treatment Options

One of the best benefits of pet acupuncture is that it complements other treatment options, helping you and your vet create a comprehensive treatment plan. For example, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with dog massage, supplements such as CBD oil, traditional veterinary treatment, and even water therapy. You may find that acupuncture makes a great addition to your overall approach to keeping your elderly dog happy and healthy.

Adding pet acupuncture to your dog's care regimen may help him feel more relaxed and comfortable in his golden years. Many vet offices offer pet acupuncture, so it's easy to start with a consultation appointment and go from there. Pet acupuncture is also appropriate and beneficial for cats and other pets.