Forgive me but I wonder if the needle really is causing him that much pain because you switched to a thinner gauge, correct?
I went back to the larger one because the smaller one was taking 15-20 min and after about 5 min he was getting really antsy. I may try the smaller one again, but tonight I'm giving him a night off. I'll see what the vet says tomorrow morning.

Taz - it is a two person job and my good friend and neighbour down the hall comes over every night to assist. I don't know I would do without her. No, they didn't show my about the massaging bit but I'm sure that would make him go berserk. I'll try to call you on Sunday night.