Faecal incontinence

Hello

I have been approached by a client regarding her 8 year old male Springer Spaniel that has been displaying signs of faecal incontinence. According to the owner its as if the dog does not realise it need to defaecate until its 'too late' and therefore goes in the house. I am wondering whether this suggests an urgency problem rather than true incontinence. Also when the dog does go there seems to be accompanying straining.

The dog has been checked over by the first opinion vet who reports the anus/sphincter are competent and there are no other nervous system signs. The owner was informed there may be motility issues in the colon and the faeces were backing up until they couldn't be held in any longer.

I am wondering if acupuncture would be a useful treatment in this instance

Thanks

Kirsty