Frequently Asked Questions

How safe is acupuncture therapy?
Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner. Very few side effects have been found in clinical cases.

How long does each treatment take?
Each session may take approximately 30-60 minutes depending on the case and modalities used.

How many acupuncture treatments are needed?
It depends upon the nature, severity and duration of a disease. A single treatment may be enough for an acute condition. A series of 3 to 10 treatments can resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may need monthly treatments over time.

Does acupuncture hurt?
A proper acupuncture treatment may induce distention, and a heaviness sensation along with contraction of local muscle. Over 95% of patients are comfortable with acupuncture therapy. Due to relaxation effect, some animals will fall asleep during acupuncture treatment. Sedation is not recommended before acupuncture treatment, as it may interfere with the acupuncture effect.

Does laser therapy hurt?
No, laser therapy is a non-invasive way to provide pain relief. As the laser is administered, your pet will relax and enjoy the treatment. The almost immediate relief of pain will allow your pet to be comfortable and any anxiety that your pet initially experiences will dissipate. Occasionally, angry cats will start to purr and canine companions will actually fall asleep during their therapy session.

Who is qualified to perform veterinary acupuncture?
Only licensed veterinarians are eligible to practice acupuncture in most states in the U.S.A. A veterinarian certified in acupuncture is highly recommended to perform veterinary acupuncture.

Why is acupuncture frequently combined with herbs?
Sometimes the application of Chinese Herbal Medicine is chosen by the knowledgeable veterinarian as a support for acupuncture, or on occasion, in lieu of it. Herbs are frequently used in situations that have not responded to traditional westerns veterinary medical practices.

How do I give my pet herbal medications?
Herbal medications come in many forms including capsules, tea pills, and powders. The form of the herb will depend on the size of the pet, the necessary dose, and the pet’s preference. Some options include: mixing the powder into the food, hiding the pills/capsules in a soft treat, mixing the powder with a liquid and giving it orally via syringe, and placing the pills/capsules directly in the pet’s mouth.

Adapted with permission from the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine
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http://www.TCVM.com

About Tranquil Paws

Tranquil Paws Veterinary is a veterinary practice that offers Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Laser Therapy to canine and feline patients. We are based on the upper east side of Manhattan and examine and are able to treat our patients in the comfort of their own homes. We provide veterinary services to the greater New York City metropolitan area.

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