The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is currently reviewing two proposals for new specialty recognition — one of which is veterinary acupuncture. The American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) organizing committee estimates that between 4,000 and 5,000 veterinarians in the U.S. currently practice acupuncture. Of these, about 80% treat small animals, while 10–20% focus on equine patients, and a smaller number work with farm animals, exotic species, and zoo animals.
Acupuncture has become increasingly accepted in veterinary medicine for its ability to complement other treatments. Studies and clinical experience suggest it enhances outcomes across multiple specialties — helping manage pain, support cancer care, improve neurorecovery, fertility, performance, and overall quality of life.
Despite its wide use and established training programs, veterinary acupuncture has not yet received formal specialty recognition. This absence limits standardized credentialing, oversight, and opportunities for academic research. The scope of veterinary acupuncture—its diagnostic methods, technical application, and theoretical foundations—is considered unique compared to other veterinary disciplines and not covered under any current Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organization (RVSO).
The American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA) has long advocated for official recognition. The AAVA joined the AVMA House of Delegates (HOD) in 2014 and applied for specialty status two years later, but the request was denied. However, momentum is building again. In early 2025, the AVMA HOD approved the new policy “Integrative Veterinary Medicine,” which includes acupuncture under the umbrella of complementary and alternative therapies.
If approved, this recognition could help standardize training, enhance clinical research, and expand access to quality acupuncture care for animals nationwide — bridging traditional and modern veterinary approaches.
Source: AVMA, Two proposed veterinary specialties under consideration: Acupuncture, embryo transfer, Published May 16th 2025
