Dr. Kimberly Couch is a small animal veterinarian with a strong focus in integrative and holistic medicine. She lives in Asheville, NC and practices at Carolina Family Vet. This is a contributor-submitted Voices piece. Want to join the conversation? We invite you to write for us. Learn how to share your voice here.

Like many fellow Ashevillians, I was originally drawn to this beautiful place because of the majestic mountains, a culture that is centered around the outdoors, and a population that embraces a holistic/natural mindset. All of these things seem to go hand in hand with what makes Asheville one of the most dog-friendly cities I have ever experienced. Those special qualities spill over into almost every aspect of the city, which make it a perfect fit for veterinary acupuncture to gain some popularity.

I have always been passionate about integrating alternative medicine approaches into my traditional veterinary medicine practice and living in Asheville has only increased this desire. How better to keep this dog-friendly, hippie mountain town unique than to support the health of the pets we love so dearly with some alternative medicine?

Acupuncture can be used for a variety of reasons, however, we use it most commonly to treat arthritis, intervertebral disc disease, seizures, to assist recovery from surgeries, and to treat many chronic/ refractory conditions. Older pets can greatly benefit from acupuncture treatments for arthritis and other chronic diseases. Even active young dogs can benefit from acupuncture, say after a long hike in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

We can practice acupuncture on cats, dogs, and even exotic species such as bunnies. Most pets tolerate the acupuncture needles very well — and some find it so relaxing, they even fall asleep during their treatments. If you think your pet may benefit from acupuncture treatments, give me a call.