Acupuncture is just one part of traditional oriental medicine, which also includes herbal medicine, diet management, exercise, and massage. Originating over three thousand years ago, this ancient Chinese medicine teaches that vital life energy known as CHI, flows through the body along specific channels or meridians. When this energy flow becomes unbalanced or blocked, pain and disease result. Through the insertion of small needles into specific points along the energy meridians, acupuncture balances the energy and re-establishes its free flow. By stimulating the release of naturally occurring compounds such as serotonin and endorphins, as well as creating tiny electrical changes at specific acupuncture points, the resulting neurochemical responses in the body can provide relief from many chronic debilitating conditions.

Arthritis, bursitis, nerve paralysis problems, chronic sinusitis, tendinitis, and vertebral spondylosis, for example, all respond well to acupuncture. It can also be used as a form of general anesthesia, although the amount of time required makes this somewhat impractical with pets. Post-operative pain management, however, is an extremely popular alternative and can reduce the amount of analgesic drugs given after surgery.