Acupuncture

At Ryan and Calder we also offer acupuncture and homeopathy clinics. Acupuncture has proved to be most beneficial to our older arthritic patients. One of our vets, Dr Jane Hunter BVMS PhD MRCVS DipMedAc, is trained in both veterinary and human acupuncture. She holds the Diploma in Medical Acupuncture from the British Medical Acupuncture Society and is a member of this organisation and the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists. She has been practising acupuncture since 1999 and running the clinic at Ryan and Calder since 2003.

Acupuncture is an ancient healing art which is now being integrated with present day medical treatment for both people and animals. It involves the use of very fine solid needles inserted in to the skin and/or muscle at sites specific for treating certain ailments. The needles stimulate responses in the body such as increasing circulation, relaxing tense muscles and reducing pain and inflammation. There can be effects on the brain with release of hormones and “feel good” factors.

It can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions but is especially effective in helping to increase mobility and reducing pain associated with sore joints and arthritis. It can also help to reduce the size of some skin warts and promote healing of lick granulomas.

An initial appointment taking around 30 minutes is made with Jane to assess your pet’s condition and suitability for acupuncture and the first treatment is carried out. Your pet needs to be settled either on the table or floor, either standing or lying down, for some minutes. Usually 5 sterile needles at one time are used and may be repeatedly inserted at different points – the needles are very fine and usually your pet will hardly feel them.

To find out more on our acupuncture service please contact us or ask a nurse or vet when you are visiting the surgery. To speak to Jane directly for more information or to arrange an appointment call 07796212056. You can also download a copy of Jane's acupuncture handout by clicking here or visiting the downloads section of our site.