Offered Service

Pet Acupuncture & Laser Therapy

Dr. Stephanie’s training in acupuncture and hospice and palliative care offers a balance of Western medicine and therapies, knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the compassionate support of treating pets in pain and suffering from various medical conditions, all while providing emotional and practical support to families.
a dog wearing a hat outside
a dog sitting in front of a river

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to create a therapeutic effect such as pain relief, hormone regulation, decreased inflammation, and immune system regulation.

What Diseases Does Acupuncture Treat?

Veterinary Acupuncture can treat a variety of diseases including, but not limited to, pain and lameness, neurological disorders (seizures, disc disease, wobbler’s disease), dermatological disorders, behavioral disorders (anxiety, fear, and aggression), gastrointestinal disorders (vomiting, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease), and improvement of quality of life in geriatric and cancer patients.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes, there are usually minimal to no side effects if performed by a professional. There are very rare and minor side effects, such as local infection and bruising in the area where the needle is inserted.

Does acupuncture hurt?

In almost all cases, no. Acupuncture needles are small and flexible and generally don’t hurt when placed. Some animals may experience minor discomfort when needles are being inserted, but the needles are so thin that most patients tolerate them very well. Acupuncture is known to have a relaxing effect to the point that some animals even fall asleep during treatment.

How quickly can I expect to see results?
It depends on the condition being treated. Some animals show marked improvement immediately following the first treatment, but most animals typically improve after three or more treatments. Chronic or tenacious conditions may take longer to show improvement than acute (new/recent) conditions.
Why do I make house calls?
Hospice, Palliative Care, and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine look at the WHOLE animal, including its environment, diet, personality, household companions, and health history. Many of these aspects are much easier to evaluate in the home setting. Especially with end-of-life care, many relationships and family dynamics often need to be supported and addressed. In addition, many of the patients I see are older, and travel is difficult for them, especially for larger dogs and easily stressed kitties. Finally, I love the extra time a house call provides to allow me to get to know the animals and their owners.

More resources about acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine

a dog wearing sunglasses and a necklace

Therapeutic Laser

Low-level laser therapy, or photobiomodulation, is a clinically proven, pain-free treatment involving specific wavelengths of energy that improve circulation, aid in healing, and provide pain relief without the use of medication. Dr. Stephanie offers class IIIb laser, providing a safe therapy with proven results.

What are the benefits of therapeutic laser treatment?

A therapeutic laser can be beneficial in treating several conditions and injuries. It is not painful, non-invasive, and quick.

Here are some of the proven benefits of laser therapy:
  • Improved joint function
  • Nerve regeneration
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Faster wound healing
  • Accelerated healing of tendon and ligament injuries
  • Regeneration of muscle tissue
  • Reduction in scar tissue
  • Fight infection
  • Increase in circulation
  • Pain relief without pharmaceuticals
More information about laser therapy:

How Laser Works

PEMF (Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy)

We are proud to also offer PEMF therapy options in the form of therapeutic beds, available to rent or buy and utilized during acupuncture treatments, and loops to provide targeted therapy. PEMF is a non-painful, relatively passive therapy that utilizes the body’s natural magnetic field to stimulate healing properties, reduce pain, speed healing, and improve circulation.

More information about PEMF:

Assisi Animal Health
About PEMF
Please call or email to discuss options and pricing.

Veterinary Services in Longmont, CO and Beyond

Pet In-Home Euthanasia

Pet Hospice and Palliative Care

Pet Aftercare

Pet Body Care Home Pick Up

Pet Acupuncture, Laser Therapy

Pet Aquamation