Acupuncture and Tui Na

for Companion & Performance Animals

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Acupuncture is a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that has been used for thousands of years to support healing, restore balance, and manage pain. Modern research confirms its effectiveness, and it is now widely used in integrative veterinary care for both companion animals and high-performance partners.

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At Twin Willows Integrative Veterinary Practice, Dr. Molly McElrath uses a variety of acupuncture techniques tailored to each patient’s needs, including:

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Acupuncture

traditional, sterile needle insertion into acupuncture points

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Aquapuncture

injection of saline or vitamin B12 into acupuncture points for prolonged effects

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Electroacupuncture

gentle electrical stimulation to support muscle recovery, pain relief, and neurological function

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Moxibustion

stimulation of acupuncture site by the burning of dried mugwort to promote circulation and warm tissues

What is Acupuncture?

What is Tui Na?

What to Expect

Sessions are tailored to your pet’s needs. First appointments for horses may take 2–3 hours, allowing for a thorough assessment, while dogs and cats typically have shorter visits (1–2 hours). During the first visit, patients may be a little nervous as they adapt to the treatment, but most relax in future sessions. Many sessions begin or end with Tui Na to help each patient relax and feel comfortable with Dr. Molly.

To help the appointment go smoothly:

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Please have your pets clean and performance animals groomed

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Share any medications, supplements, or special diets

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Allow plenty of time for first visits, especially for chronic conditions

Chronic vs. Acute Conditions

Dr. Molly works with owners in San Luis Obisbo County and North Bay Area to to develop realistic treatment plans, including open and honest discussions about expectations and financial considerations.

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Chronic conditions typically respond to a series of 4-5 initial sessions, followed by reassessment and an individualized maintenance plan if needed.

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Acute conditions often benefit from 1-3 sessions, depending on the problem and the response to treatment. 

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Calico cat with an acupuncture needle lounging on a blue towel.
Person in a pink jacket beside a brown horse with a black saddle in an outdoor setting

Ready to learn

how integrative medicine might benefit your pet?

Call (805) 459-1760 or submit an appointment request today to schedule an acupuncture consultation and help your pet move, feel, and perform at their best.