Program Purpose:

The purpose of the Post-Masters Certificate in Animal Acupuncture program is to teach licensed acupuncturists how to safely and effectively treat animals within the guidelines set by the State of Maryland. This program meets the requirements to apply for Maryland Animal Acupuncture Certification.

Educational Objectives

Students will:

• Formulate safe and effective acupuncture treatments for animal patients
• Acquire applicable clinical skills (diagnosis, formula planning, treatment delivery, and patient management) through supervised discussion and treatment
• Progress from requiring close, clinical supervision to treating patients independently

Program Outcomes

The student will:

• Assess energy in companion animals, diagnose the energy, and develop a treatment plan
• Plan, perform, and safely treat animals with acupuncture and moxibustion
• Demonstrate an understanding of Maryland state laws regarding animal acupuncture
• Gain understanding and knowledge of equine, canine, and feline anatomy and physiology
  • Demonstrate sufficient knowledge in recognizing potential infectious or zoonotic diseases in the canine, feline, or equine species that would require referral to the attending veterinarian
  • Acquire basic knowledge and competency in the restraint and handling of each species (equine, canine, feline) to provide maximal safety and comfort for the practitioner, patient, and owner
  • Demonstrate an awareness of the various specialty veterinary practices available and will be versed in discussing such options with the owner and the referring veterinarian
  • Know basic first aid for the canine, feline, and equine including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques
• Understand the various ethical issues in the treatment of animals and with the human-animal bond