Ok from me you get the dual scenario -- because I both have dogs who get acupuncture AND *I* do as well.
Amanda's description of Bevo is right on location wise. The very first needle is usually at the top of the skull -- it's a "chill out" Point -- do that one on me and I almost can't drive home!
Now if you read the above you will see -- the reaction is individual -- BUT some dogs sleep and some dogs don't. The experience of the person doing the needling and their technique can be a big deal.
If you go to the videos section I posted a video of Billy actually being needled. And you're welcome to give the URL of that to the vet you're going to see. If they've seen Dr. Xie ("shay";) do his lecture on anemia then they've SEEN Billy because apparently Xie uses Billy as a case study in his lecture.
Now 99% of needles don't hurt -- in fact, acupuncture needles are SO thin that they usually use a little tiny straw/tube literally so the needle doesn't 'bend' when inserted because they are SO thin it can be hard to get thru the skin!! In fact, when Dr. D needles Kee Shu she actually uses needles SO fine you can tie a knot in them - no joke!
It can be like a tattoo -- the closer to bone the more it may hurt. I've had needles most everywhere -- and 99% of the time you never feel them - you feel the little tap against the straw on skin -- but not the needle itself. I've even hand needles in my hands and face.
It is FAR better *NOT* to move. A needle may not hurt when it enters, but it CAN if you move around. That's why you typically hold the dog -- or a tech will.
****ASK SPECIFICALLY**** about acupressure points YOU can use at home. There is one point just inside the top of the breastbone that will help push the 'qi" (say 'chee';) down into the body. That's one I use all the time on me (I have asthma) and I've used it on dogs dozens of times.
Time of Day -- hmm that's an interesting point. When *I* get acupuncture, I seriously have to get it done LATE in the day Last thing -- simply because it relaxes me SO seriously that I am worthless for the rest of the day.
Some dogs will simply fall asleep -- some don't. Some never DO relax. Muffin the Intrepid used to go COMPLETELY to sleep. You'd have to shake him to wake him up to go home. Foxy would "stand" but never lie down. But then, the mostlie sheltie almost never slept -- that was his nature.
Billy never goes to sleep -- he's an active one. But he gets a ton of needles and I really try to keep him in one spot. He also likes to be a "shaker" -- and that will flip all the needles out so you DO try to keep them in one spot.
Kee Shu will go flat to sleep -- in fact, if she's snoozing getting needles won't even wake her up.
Much depends on that particular vet, their style and what they do. My vet, Dr. DiNatale, teaches all over the US. Megan's vet, Dr. Faisano, also teaches at the Institute (she' in Dr. D's practice).
Take some treats -- it really DOES make it easier. Take whatever you use -- shoot, I've taken everything from bits of kibble to Gerber Graduates Apple pieces (that's what I took tonight!) to bits of steak. The vet will appreciate your thoughtfulness and will appreciate your efforts to ensure that things go well.
If there is a rug or blanket that Jessie is particularly fond of -- take it. Whatever makes her comfortable can help.
Acupuncture can rock for asthma -- been there done that!
Usually the treatments last somewhere near an hour. However, your initial visit will usually be LONG -- plan on 90 minutes or 2 hours. Write out everything Jessie is currently on -- and ask your vet to send over test results from bloodwork and any tests that have recently been run. It will be appreciated.
Holler if I can help -- seriously. Callie