Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

Broadly defined, acupuncture is the use of needles or other stimulation at very specific points on the body to help the body to heal itself. It is one of the modalities of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. Acupuncture is best known for pain management but can also be used for internal medical problems and mental and emotional health.

What services do you offer?

Wild Hearts Veterinary is an acupuncture and medical manipulation-only practice for horses and acupuncture only for companion animals. I recently added a class 1 therapy laser to my toolkit which I use alongside my other modalities. I do not offer wellness, lameness diagnostics (outside of the TCVM physical exam and motion palpation) or emergency services. Because the scope of my services is limited, I require all patients to have an established relationship with a full service veterinary practice to ensure all their health needs are met.

What happens during an appointment?

Your horse will receive a TCVM exam, acupuncture scan and motion palpation. This provides me with the information I need to treat your horse appropriately. I will then formulate an individual treatment plan that may include dry needles, aquapuncture, electroacupuncture, infrared acupuncture, laser therapy and manipulation. The exam and treatment typically take 30-45 minutes. Just like your regular vet, I will need someone available to hold the horse during treatment.

Do horses like acupuncture?

One of the benefits of acupuncture is that it releases endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy horses just don’t kill their veterinarians. In all seriousness, I find most horses tolerate or even enjoy acupuncture treatments. For more sensitive horses, I have used my infrared unit with excellent results.

How often will my horse need to be treated?

For a new patient, I recommend an introductory treatment series of 6 weekly or biweekly treatments for best results. If that frequency does not align with your schedule or budget, I’m happy to adjust as needed. After the initial treatment period, most horses respond well to a 4-6 week treatment interval.

How can I make an appointment?

Contact me by phone, text or email!

How much does treatment cost?

Single modality (acupuncture or manipulation): $150

Acupuncture and manipulation: $200

Laser therapy session: contact for pricing

Where can I learn more?

Here are some fabulous resources for more information about acupuncture:

International Veterinary Acupuncture Society

Chi University

American Association of Veterinary Acupuncture

People and Pet Integrative Blog

UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine

American Association of Equine Practitioners

University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine