The practice of veterinary acupuncture dates back thousands of years to China. It is the insertion of tiny sterile needles into specific points in the body to bring about a healing effect. Modern research suggests that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins that circulate through the body to the central nervous system to alleviate pain. It can be used to treat a variety of ailments in dogs and cats. The insertion of the needles is virtually painless and once the needles have been applied, many animals relax and even become sleepy. Dr. Burdon practices veterinary acupuncture.