Veterinary Acupuncture

in Denver

Did you know acupuncture has been used to treat humans and animals for more than 3,000 years? Veterinary acupuncture at The Neighborhood Vets offers gentle, holistic support by helping the body heal from within. It is a calm, hands-on therapy that works alongside traditional medicine to relieve discomfort, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being.

What is

Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the placement of fine, sterile needles at specific points along the body to stimulate nerves, improve circulation, and trigger natural pain-relief pathways. These tiny signals encourage the body to release endorphins, relax muscles, and reduce inflammation. In some cases, electroacupuncture may be added to provide a mild electrical pulse to enhance therapeutic effects.

A dog being given acupuncture
A cat curled up asleep
Black and white paw print, right side aligned.

What to Expect

Kelsey Schroeder, DVM, CCRT, cVMA, provides acupuncture care with a gentle touch and individualized treatment plans. Sessions are calm and non-invasive. Thin needles are placed under the skin for 10–30 minutes, depending on the pet’s comfort. Many pets settle into a relaxed, almost sleepy state during treatment, making it a soothing experience rather than a stressful one.


Most treatment plans begin with weekly visits for several weeks to build momentum, then taper to maintenance sessions as we see improvements.


Acupuncture May Help Support:

  • Musculoskeletal pain and arthritis
  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Post-operative orthopedic recovery
  • Soft tissue strains and injuries
  • Neurologic disease, including IVDD and degenerative myelopathy
  • Gastrointestinal conditions
  • Respiratory issues such as feline asthma
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Skin concerns like allergies or lick granulomas
  • Urinary disorders, including FLUTD
Black and white paw print, right side aligned.

Supporting Senior Pets

For senior pets, acupuncture is an excellent way to support regular wellness visits. It improves blood flow and circulation—supporting healing, easing arthritic discomfort, and helping aging tissues function more efficiently. Acupuncture also modulates inflammation and activates the calming parasympathetic nervous system, making it especially valuable for older pets experiencing stiffness, stress, or cognitive changes.

A golden retriever having a massage
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Acupuncture and Laser Therapy

Combining acupuncture with laser therapy offers a gentle, integrative approach to pain relief and healing, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis, spinal issues, and slow-healing injuries. This non-invasive pairing reduces inflammation, supports tissue repair, and can be used alongside rehabilitation or traditional medical care for a stronger therapeutic effect.

Line drawing of a cat reaching upwards with its paw.
A simple drawing of a single pink flower on a white background.
A delicate pink flower with green leaves, positioned in the lower right corner.
A small, delicate flower with pink petals and a thin stem.
Delicate floral illustration with pink and blue flowers, on a white background.
Line drawing of a dog, playfully leaping forward with its tongue out and tail up.
Delicate pink flower with green leaves, sketched on a white background.
A small drawing of a pink flower on a white background.
Pink stitched bee with curly design.

If your pet could benefit from reduced pain, improved mobility, or added comfort, acupuncture may be a meaningful addition to their care plan.

Pet owners should call us at (303) 871-8050 or request an appointment online to get started.


Referring veterinarians can start the referral process by submitting our referral form.