About Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient healing art that was started in China and dates back before 600 B.C.  In 1996, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) approved this procedure as "an integral part of veterinary medicine" and is "regarded as surgical and/or medical procedures under state veterinary practice acts".  Acupuncture stimulates energy flow called Qi (pronounced "chee") by stimulation at specific points on the body.  Most points are on meridians that are connected throughout the body.  Qi is the vital life force and the health of the body is dependent on the state of Qi.  When there is a decrease in the flow of Qi, the body becomes "out of balance" and disease of injury can occur.  The goal is to open the flow of Qi by stimulating the acupuncture points after the animal is examined and to balance the two types of Qi: Yin and Yang.  Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) is based on the yin and yang theory supported by the patient's tongue and pulse diagnosis and will be discussed at your first appointment.

Eastern and Western Medicine:

Surgi-Care Center for Horses has the resources to integrate Eastern Medicine with conventional Western Medicine.  You will be advised at your appointment when the combination is necessary or recommended to optimize the treatment of your horse and to achieve the desired results. 

If you are not currently a Surgi-Care client, it is important to provide a thorough medical history for your horse.  If your horse currently receives good conventional veterinary care, we encourage you to maintain that relationship and we will work in partnership with you and your veterinarian.  If you need a primary care veterinarian Surgi-Care now offers this service.

For further information you may email Dr. McLeod at kmcleod@surgi-carecenter.com or to schedule an appointment please call Surgi-Care Center for Horses at (813) 643-7177.