How to Use Magnetic Therapy With Pets

Just as humans may benefit from magnetic therapy in the treatment of various ailments and conditions, so may pets. The use of magnetic therapy to treat animals is an emerging trend that shows no sign of slowing down in the near future. Devotees of magnetic therapy believe that the application of magnets to injured parts of an animal promote better blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which may speed healing. This practice has been used in the horse racing world for many years. There are also many veterinarians who use magnets to comfort animals who suffer from debilitating conditions such as arthritis. Treatment is also economical, so pet owners can add this to other medical treatments without breaking the bank.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Guide to pressure or pain trigger points for animals
• Magnets specially adapted with animals in mind

Comfort Your Pets With Magnetic Therapy

1. Have a veterinarian diagnose your pet's condition before you begin any treatment.
2. Use the best quality magnets on your pets. Ask your vet what the correct strength is for your particular animal's condition or refer to "Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine, Principles and Practice" by Allen M. Schoen and Susan G. Wynn (see Resourses below).
3. Choose a magnetic wrap for active pets who move around a lot. Magnets can't help if they won't stay on.
4. Buy your smaller pet a magnetic bed or blanket to sleep on at night. Consistent use of magnetic therapy improves the chances of healing.
5. Select a magnetic rug for larger animals such as horses. Large animals require greater magnet strength.
6. Supplement magnetic therapy with acupressure, herbal remedies and prescribed medications.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep you pet's weight under control. Animal joints suffer from excess weight, just like human joints.
• Animals need plenty of exercise, unless otherwise directed by a vet.
• Pets need time to get accustomed to magnets, so be patient.
• Do not use on pregnant animals.
• Not for use on open sores or cancerous growths.
• If the animal shows signs of severe distress, see a veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
• Before you start treating your animals with any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your veterinarian about your decision first. Keep your vet informed about any alternative medical technique that you use with your pets.