Veterinary Acupuncture
Holistic support for pets’ comfort, mobility & wellbeing
What is Veterinary Acupuncture?
At Kindred Hearth Animal Hospital in Carrboro, we offer veterinary acupuncture, a gentle, time-tested therapy designed to support your pet’s body in healing, restoring balance, and improving quality of life. In this integrative approach, fine, sterile needles (and sometimes gentle electrical stimulation or laser application) are placed at specific points on your pet’s body to stimulate nerves, bolster circulation and encourage natural healing responses.
This treatment can serve as a complementary tool alongside traditional veterinary medicine, helping pets with a variety of conditions and pet parents seeking enhanced wellness care.
Benefits You &
Your Pet Will Notice
Reduced pain and improved comfort levels — many pets move more freely, show more enthusiasm for activity and rest better.
Enhanced circulation and tissue repair — acupuncture stimulates blood flow, which supports healing and waste removal in tissues.
Holistic support with minimal side effects — because it is minimally invasive and gentle, acupuncture is a safe option for many pets, including seniors.
Better overall quality of life — especially for pets with chronic issues, acupuncture can help them live the happiest, most comfortable life possible.
Meet Our Veterinary Acupuncturist
Sara Virgil, DVM, CVA
Dr. Sarah Virgil is a 2014 graduate of the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She enjoys all aspects of practicing veterinary medicine, but she is especially interested in maintaining and enhancing the human-animal bond, pain management, caring for senior pets, and fear-free medicine.
After practicing for 10 years and observing the beneficial effects of holistic medicine in pets and people, she became interested in additional ways she could help her pet patients and became certified in Veterinary Acupuncture through Chi University in Florida in 2024. Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide range of conditions in pets from arthritis to neurologic problems to gastrointestinal issues.
Dr. Virgil lives in Cary with her husband, two children, senior dog, two cats, and a growing flock of chickens. She enjoys playing recreational soccer, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt my pet?
Not in typical cases. The needles used are very fine and many pets become relaxed or even sleepy during treatment. Some may feel a warm or “tingling” sensation.
How soon will I see results?
Some pets show improvement after the first treatment; for others,especially those with chronic conditions,several sessions are needed for noticeable change.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are minimal. Occasionally a pet may feel slightly tired or stiffer for a short time after treatment, but serious adverse effects are rare.
Will my pet still need medications?
In many cases yes. Acupuncture is best when integrated with your pet’s conventional treatments and medications. We’ll coordinate with your primary vet.
How many sessions will my pet need long-term?
It depends on your pet’s condition and response. After the initial phase, many pets transition to maintenance treatments every 8-12 weeks or as needed.
Kindred Heart Animal Hospital
Carrboro
101 Two Hills Drive, Suite 110
Carrboro, NC 27510
Phone: (919) 525-1962
Email: [email protected]
Hospital Hours
Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed Saturday & Sunday
Grooming Hours
By Appointment Only
Chapel Hill
Governors Village, 50150 Governors Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Phone: (919) 756-7680
Email: [email protected]
Hospital Hours
Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed Saturday & Sunday