Brees is an 8-year-old German Shepherd who visits Dr. Ducoing and Dr. Benbow for acupuncture and electrical stimulation!

He is a fun-loving, loyal, and energetic dog who gives the best kisses around!

Unfortunately, Brees has Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), a degenerative disease of the spinal cord that causes hind limb weakness and eventual paralysis. Degenerative Myelopathy is a genetic disease common in many breeds including German Shepherds Corgis, Boxers, Rhodesian Ridgeback, as well as other canine breeds. The disease can also occur in mixed-breeds and both males and females are equally affected.

DM typically comes on slowly and is very subtle. But a simple DNA test can be performed on your pet to see if (s)he is at risk, carries, or is clear of the disease!

While there is currently no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy, acupuncture can help to stimulate the nerves in the hind limbs which can help decrease muscle wasting and slow down the progression of the disease.

Brees is living proof of the benefits acupuncture and alternative treatments could provide to your pets. The combination of Western and Eastern medicine has progressed and, when done properly by trained and certified veterinarians, is providing more positive results for the wellness of animals.