Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 8AM-8PM. Sat-Sun: 9AM-5PM. Public Holidays: 9AM-5PM. 

We believe animals deserve the best of us!
We believe animals deserve the best of us!
We believe animals deserve the best of us!
We believe animals deserve the best of us!
We believe animals deserve the best of us!
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Pain Management & Acupuncture

Pain Management and the Zero Pain Philosophy

GVC’s evidence-based commitment to delivering welfare first veterinary care is demonstrated by the award of Zero Pain Philosophy Practice accreditation. This prestigious accreditation reflects GVC’s commitment towards the delivery of the highest standards of pain management according to current guidelines.

Pain is horrible.

If you have ever experienced pain – either acute or chronic – you know what we are talking about.

We, as humans can easily communicate that we are in pain, but our pets sadly can’t verbally tell us how they are feeling. 

This is why we must rely on other forms of communication such as gait profile, body posture, body language, facial expressions and more to understand your pet’s levels of pain better.

This applies to both acute pain which your pet may experience before, during or after a surgery or procedure, but also to chronic pain from osteoarthritis, gastro-intestinal disease, skin disease, cancer pain and more.

At GVC, we are committed to providing your pets with the very latest approaches and tools for pain recognition, assessment, treatment and monitoring. 

Being a Zero Pain Philosophy Practice is part of that commitment as is our team’s ongoing upskilling and continued education and improvement in this field.

We take a comprehensive approach to managing pain before, during, and after all surgical procedures. Led by Dr Katrin, a certified veterinary anaesthetist, our team employs advanced techniques to ensure comfort at every stage of surgical care. We routinely use epidurals and localized anaesthetic blocks as part of our peri-operative pain management strategy—an advanced practice rarely offered in other clinics. This commitment to innovative and effective pain control not only improves recovery outcomes but also minimizes stress for your pet, ensuring they receive the best possible care during their treatment.

Added to this, as a Board-Certified Specialist in Veterinary Behaviour Medicine, Dr Katrin knows only too well how difficult it can be to diagnose chronic and neuropathic pain in our pets, and that often, their behaviour is the only sign that they are uncomfortable or painful. If left untreated, chronic pain can become maladaptive which can have further impacts on your pet’s behaviour and physical health.

If you are concerned that your pet might be in pain, book them in for a comprehensive pain assessment today.

Pain Management & Acupuncture​ for pets

The Healing Power of Acupuncture

GVC offers acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment option for pain and other medical conditions.

As part of our Fear Free and Zero Pain Philosophy led comprehensive approach to veterinary care, we feel that this modality is a great option for many of our patients.

Dr Helen Baker, MRCVS

Dr Helen Baker MRCVS is the holder of the prestigious WVAG Foundation in Western Veterinary Acupuncture, and heads our acupuncture service, which is tailored to meet your pet’s individual needs.
UK trained Dr Helen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our acupuncture services, combining traditional veterinary medicine with the healing benefits of acupuncture.

What is the Legal Status of Veterinary Acupuncture?

The treatment of animals with acupuncture is categorized as an act of veterinary surgery and should therefore only be performed by a qualified veterinary surgeon or, as per the RCVS in the UK, if under the supervision of a qualified veterinary surgeon, acupuncture can be administered by a veterinary nurse under “Schedule 3” of the RCVS under care regulations.

What Is Acupuncture for Pets?

What Is Acupuncture for Pets?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing technique that uses tiny, painless needles to stimulate specific points on the body. This can help:

Improve circulation.

  • Improve circulation.
  • Stimulate the nervous system.
  • Promote natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.

 

In veterinary medicine, acupuncture is used as a non-invasive way to support your pet’s health and manage a variety of conditions.

What Conditions Can Acupuncture Help Treat?

Acupuncture is a versatile treatment that can provide relief for many conditions, including:

  • Pain
  • Neurological issues
  • Digestive Problems
  • Recovery Support

 

Whether your pet is recovering from an injury, requires pain management for a chronic or acute condition, or simply aging gracefully, acupuncture can help improve their quality of life.

Our Fear Free Approach to Acupuncture

We understand that some pets may feel nervous about new experiences, so our Fear Free approach is designed to ensure they feel safe and supported throughout the process:

  • Comfortable Environment: Sessions take place in a quiet, soothing space tailored to your pet’s preferences.
  • Low-Stress Handling: Dr Helen uses gentle techniques to keep your pet calm and relaxed.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Treats, love and knowledge of your pet’s preferences make acupuncture a positive experience.
  • Personalized Care: Every pet is different. Dr Helen works closely with you to create a customized treatment plan that aligns with your pet’s needs.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Pets

There are several well-established and evidenced benefits for acupuncture, these include:

Non-Invasive Pain Relief: A natural alternative to medication for managing chronic pain.
Improved Mobility: Helps arthritic or aging pets move more comfortably.
Holistic Support: Complements other treatments for a well-rounded care plan.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

Consultation: Dr Helen will evaluate your pet’s medical history and current condition.
First Session: Tiny needles are gently inserted into specific acupuncture points identified on examination. Pets are encouraged through owner support and our low stress techniques to rest during treatment for up to 20 minutes (or however long they want!)
Follow-Up: A treatment schedule will be tailored to your pet’s unique needs, with most conditions benefiting from a series of sessions performed on a weekly basis.
At Home: Acupuncture can be carried out in the comfort of your home if that’s your pet’s preference!

Contact us to book your acupuncture consultation today!