Pet Acupuncture Case Study: Gryffin Boake
Patient Overview
Gryffin Boake, a 10-year-old male castrated Pekingese, presented with notable mobility issues affecting his hind limbs. He was dragging both hind legs, with the right side more severely impacted than the left. While superficial pain sensation was absent, deep pain was still present, indicating partial neurological function.
Diagnosis and Initial Condition
Gryffin was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition that places pressure on the spinal cord and can lead to varying degrees of paralysis. His presentation suggested moderate neurological impairment, with retained deep pain offering a positive prognostic indicator.
Treatment Approach
A treatment plan centred on electro acupuncture was implemented. This method enhances traditional acupuncture by applying a mild electrical current through the needles, stimulating nerve pathways, improving circulation, and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
Treatment commenced on 13 March 2026, with sessions scheduled consistently over a short, intensive period.
Progress and Response to Treatment
Gryffin responded quickly to treatment. Within 5 sessions over approximately one month, a significant improvement was observed:
Regained the ability to walk without assistance
Improved coordination and strength in both hind limbs
Reduction in dragging, with noticeable improvement on the right side
The relatively rapid response highlights the benefit of early intervention and the presence of deep pain sensation at the start of treatment.
Outcome
By 1 April 2026, Gryffin had regained functional mobility and was able to walk independently. His quality of life improved substantially within a short timeframe.
Conclusion
Gryffin Boake’s case demonstrates how electro acupuncture can support recovery in IVDD cases, even in older dogs. With preserved deep pain sensation and consistent treatment, meaningful improvements in mobility can occur within weeks.
Summary
- Patient: Gryffin Boake, 10-year-old male Pekingese
- Condition: IVDD with hindlimb lameness, loss of superficial pain, deep pain present
- Symptoms: Dragging both hind limbs, right worse than left
- Treatment: Electro acupuncture
- Timeline: 13 March 2026 to 1 April 2026
- Progress: Walking independently after 5 sessions within 1 month
- Outcome: Significant recovery of mobility
- Key Insight: Early intervention and preserved deep pain can support faster recovery with acupuncture