Pet Acupuncture and Life
https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/pet-acupuncture-and-life/
By Mark Crislip
Pet acupuncture fans often claim relief for pain, skin issues, and stress. This Science-Based Medicine piece digs into the claims and the science, separating folklore from facts. It notes that while some animals appear to improve after needle treatment, controlled studies rarely show results beyond placebo or spontaneous change. The post highlights biases, the difficulty of measuring animal pain, and the risk of harm from unsterile needles or improper technique. The bottom line: treatment choices should be guided by solid evidence and veterinary oversight, not novelty or anecdote. If you’re weighing acupuncture for your pet, this piece provides a framework: questions to ask, what to look for in a practitioner, and how to balance potential benefits with costs and risks. It suggests leaning toward evidence-based care and consulting a trusted veterinarian before trying any alternative therapy.
