Acupuncture FAQs
How often should my horse have acupuncture?
We usually start with a series of three to five gentle sessions spaced a few weeks apart to see how your horse responds. You will likely notice a positive change in their comfort after the second or third visit. From there, we can transition to a maintenance schedule (often once monthly) tailored to your horse's unique needs.
How safe is the treatment?
When performed by a trained veterinarian, acupuncture is one of the safest and most natural ways to support your horse’s health. It carries very little risk and is drug-free, making it a wonderful complement to your horse's standard care. We work closely with your primary vet to ensure your horse stays in peak condition.
When is acupuncture inappropriate?
Acupuncture is a wonderful partner to modern medicine, but it isn't a replacement for emergency care or general practice care for issues such as but not limited to bleeding disorders, fractures, chokes, colic symptoms, and infections. It is also important to tell us if your mare is pregnant, as acupuncture may not be recommended.
How long should I wait after my horses had their vaccines completed before scheduling acupuncture?
We suggest waiting two weeks after vaccinations before we schedule an acupuncture session. This gives your horse’s immune system time to rest and ensures they respond beautifully to their treatment. We want to make sure your horse feels their absolute best during our time together.
Is Acupuncture painful for the horse?
Most horses find the process very relaxing, as the needles are incredibly fine and gentle. While some horses are more sensitive than others, we always prioritize your horse's comfort, physical and emotional safety. If a horse seems uneasy, we will pause and find the best way to keep the experience as stress-free as possible.
How long should I wait after an acupuncture session to work my horse?
We recommend giving your horse a full 24 hours of rest after their treatment to let their body adjust. You might notice them acting a bit sleepy or relaxed, which is a normal sign that the healing process is working. Giving them this time ensures they get the most benefit from the session.
My horse just had joint injections. Can I schedule acupuncture the same day?
It is best to wait at least two weeks after joint injections before we begin our acupuncture work. Your horse's safety and the success of both treatments are our top priorities.
Client Resource Hub
Welcome to your resource hub. Here you will find helpful tools and guidance designed to support your horse before and after their acupuncture sessions, ensuring a smooth and effective treatment experience.
Before Your Horse’s Session
- Gently groom your horse to remove excess mud or dust.
- Ensure a quiet, safe space for the treatment.
- Provide access to fresh water before and after.
- Keep routine nutrition/feeding schedule
Aftercare & Recovery
- Allow 24 hours of quiet rest after treatment.
- Under most circumstances keep your horses turnout routine the same as normal.
- Encourage low-stress movement if recommended.
- Keep fresh water available at all times.
Client Forms:
Resources and Links:
Equine Acupuncture: Gaining A More In Depth Understanding
Links to A Few Articles and Research Papers
1. Acupuncture in Horses by Sarah le Jeune DVM, CVA, Cert. Vet Chiro, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMR
https://ceh.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/acupuncture-horses
2. Acupuncture for Horses by Joan Maree Hinken DVM, CVA, CVSMT
https://www.smartpakequine.com/learn-products/acupuncture-for-horses
3. Applying Acupuncture to Lameness in the Horse By Allen Schoen
https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/a86dcd8c-7311-4774-b949-6c463121dee3/downloads/1d0q326h2_924985.pdf?ver=1765413676534
4. Evidence-based Application of Acupuncture in Equine Practice by Huisheng Xie DVM, MS, PhD, G. Reed Holyoak DVM, PhD, DACT