Acupuncture 

Veterinary Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin to stimulate specific points on the body in order to treat or prevent disease. It is one component of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) aimed at restoring balance, healthy energy and blood flow to the body. In TCVM theory, an individual’s life, emotions and activity are intimately related to its environment and disease is the result of an imbalance between these internal and external influences, causing a disruption to the energy, “Qi” and blood flow in the body. Stimulation of specific acupuncture points along a channel or meridian which is connected to its related organs inside the body have the ability to alter various biochemical and physiologic changes to manage pain and restore health.


In animals, veterinary acupuncture can be used alone, or in conjunction with conventional western medicine and surgery. It provides a safe, holistic and drug-free approach to manage pain and a range of conditions where conventional medications are not working, or are contraindicated because of possible side effects, or when surgery is not feasible. While acupuncture may not completely cure an animal in certain illnesses, it can alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

The initial consultation will last approximately 30-45 minutes, providing time to gather a complete clinical history and perform a thorough examination before administering acupuncture treatment. Needles will be placed at specific points on the body, selected based on the condition being treated. As acupuncture does not have a standardized dosage like medication, Dr. Chan will determine the appropriate number of needle insertions based on your pet’s immediate response during the session and their condition after the treatment.

Eligible Patients:

  • Post-surgical recovery and rehabilitation of orthopaedic and neurological conditions
  • Spinal Pain (e.g. spondylosis, lumbosacral disease, degenerative myelopathy & intervertebral disc disease)Musculoskeletal Problems (e.g. osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, disc related pain & neuropathic pain)
  • Chronic muscle/ tendon injuries
  • Lick granulomas
  • Chronic digestive disturbances
  • Behavioural problems (often linked to pain)
  • Fatigue syndromes
  • Heart, liver, kidney and urogenital diseases including incontinence issues
  • Geriatric care or wellness
  • Cystitis in Cats

Important Information: Acupuncture provides holistic care in conjunction with veterinary medical or surgical procedures and enhance recovery, improve pain management, and support overall wellness. Veterinary acupuncture can be highly beneficial for patients who may not respond well to traditional medication or are looking for a complementary treatment to support their ongoing care. It can be integrated to relieve symptoms and improve their quality of life. However, it should not be used as a substitute for routine clinical treatments that are indicated in the individual case. It is important that the owner is informed of all possible treatment options before being referred to for veterinary acupuncture service.

Dr Chan, our veterinarian who practices Acupuncture in Cairns and the surrounding region is International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) certified and trained at the Australian Collage of Veterinary Acupuncture Society (ACVA) Ltd. http://vetacupcollege.com.au/blog/

For more information on veterinary acupuncture and herbal therapy, please visit the websites of:
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