While it’s always great to see a patient walk out of our door knowing that they don’t need to come back and see us, we all know that doesn’t always happen. Many animals live with chronic conditions, and it’s our job to work with their owners to manage their problems so that they can live happy, comfortable lives.

Hattie is a good example. She is a sweet little dog who has been through a lot. Her story is testament both to her unexpected toughness and to her owners’ devotion. As well as major spinal surgery a few years ago for disc problems, she has had to have her spleen removed. She has ongoing issues with spinal pain and some weakness in her hind legs.

Hattie takes daily medication for her back and has regular physiotherapy locally. Despite this, she is a happy, determined girl who enjoys short walks, with longer trips being enjoyed from the comfort of her stroller.

Recently, her owner brought her to see vet Gudi for a thorough review of her condition and to see what options there might be to improve her mobility and comfort. Gudi considered her past medical history and current medications alongside a physical examination. One of her suggestions was that we could try acupuncture for Hattie, which brought her to see me.

When I first saw her, Hattie had quite an uncomfortable, hunched stance and was sensitive to pressure along her back. She allowed me to place 10 needles in ‘local points’ either side of her spine. Local points are tender areas identified by palpation and are often used to help guide needle placement. She was very sensitive as the needles were advanced into the muscle tissue, but she was remarkably tolerant.

I have performed acupuncture on many dogs over the years, but I don’t think I have ever seen such a dramatic change in a dog. The following week, her owner reported an immediate improvement. Hattie walked into the room with her tail held high and no longer hunched. She was much less tender when I examined her spine, and her mobility was noticeably improved.

Since then, Hattie has been having regular sessions. Although she doesn’t enjoy having the needles placed, we have found that if a nurse comes and holds her gently while giving her a face massage, she laps up the attention and is very patient with us.

I always enjoy seeing Hattie and chatting with her owner while she waits for her needles to be removed. I hope that the combination of care Hattie receives will help her to continue enjoying life for a long time to come.