The practice of Acupuncture has increased in veterinary medicine and often used as a pain relief, which may then impact behaviour. The practice derived from centuries of observation and originated in China 3000 to 4000 years ago (White and Ernest,2002).

It was derived from Neolithic shamanistic practices where sharpened stones and bones (Known as Bian stones) were used for medical treatment, which were potentially used to drain abscesses or blood letting. (Micunovic, 2018).

Acupuncture is often linked to moxibustion (heat treatment) also known as Zhen Jiu (Needle heat) this treatment is believed to be an older practice than needling .The technique often focuses on tender points of the body also known as ah shi points which were treated to relieve pain(Gao, et al.,2012).

Acupuncture is believed to have cultural significance in ancient times as it is rooted in Taoist philosophy which views health as a balance between Yin and Yang and treating the body as a micro image of nature (Sui, 2026).