Veterinary Acupuncture for Dogs, Cats & Rabbits

Acupuncture is a clinically proven therapy that involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body. In veterinary medicine, it is used to treat pain, promote healing and improve function - all without the side effects often associated with long-term medication use.

At Greenway Veterinary Acupuncture, we use acupuncture as part of an integrated approach to your pet's health, working alongside your regular vet and other professionals to achieve the best possible outcomes for you both.

Find Out If Acupuncture Is Right for Your Pet

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, known as acupoints. These points often correspond to areas rich in nerve bundles, neurovascular junctions and significant areas of muscle and fascia.

When needles are placed at these points, the musculoskeletal, hormonal, cardiovascular and nervous systems are all affected and there is a cascade of physiological responses including:

Release of endorphins (natural painkillers)

Reduced inflammation at the site of injury

Improved local blood circulation

Muscle relaxation and reduced spasm

Stimulation of nerve repair and function

Support for the immune system

Most animals tolerate acupuncture very well. Many become visibly relaxed during treatment, and some even fall asleep. Sessions typically last 15–20 minutes once the needles are placed, with the full appointment allowing time for examination, discussion, and treatment.

What Can Acupuncture Help With?

Arthritis & Joint Pain

Acupuncture stimulates the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, helping to ease stiffness and improve comfort in arthritic joints.

Stiffness & Mobility Decline

By improving blood circulation and reducing muscle tension, acupuncture can help your pet move more freely and comfortably.

Post-Operative Recovery

Acupuncture supports healing after surgery by reducing inflammation, managing pain, and promoting tissue repair.

Chronic Pain

For pets with ongoing pain conditions, acupuncture provides a drug-free option to manage discomfort and improve quality of life.

Neurological & Spinal Cases

Acupuncture can help with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), nerve damage, and other neurological conditions by stimulating nerve function and reducing inflammation.

General Wellbeing for Older Pets

Senior pets benefit from acupuncture as a gentle way to maintain mobility, manage age-related conditions, and support overall vitality.

What to Expect

Initial Consultation

Allow a good hour for the first session. We'll get to know your pet, watch how they move and behave, discuss their history and lifestyle, review their clinical records from your regular vet and then carefully examine them before explaining our treatment plan to you.

The Treatment

Fine needles are gently placed at specific acupoints. We often start with fewer points on the first session, particularly if the patient is sensitised by recent pain issues, and build up in subsequent treatments. The needles remain in place for approximately 15–20 minutes. We listen to and observe your pet throughout, to maximise a comfortable, relaxing experience for them.

Aftercare

After the session, your pet needs to relax for an hour or so. We'll discuss a plan with you and provide advice on additional therapeutic options. Patients respond and adjust individually to their first acupuncture sessions so we are available to talk to directly following those early sessions, with any queries or concerns.

Follow-Up

Pets who respond well tend to show improvement within 2-3 treatments, and you'll have the option of continuing with monthly sessions or as needed.

Ready to help your pet feel better?

Get in touch to find out if acupuncture is right for your pet.