Animal Chiropractic is a field of veterinary healthcare that focuses on the preservation and health of joints and the nervous system. It is based on the same principles as chiropractic for humans.

Animal Chiropractic offers non-surgical and drug free options for certain bone, disk and soft tissue disorders specifically associated with the spine. The goal is to maintain normal range of motion of affected joints, relieve pain, and promote normal nerve function coming out of the spine. This therapy is not limited to an injured or sick pet. Healthy and athletic animals are also ideal candidates for animal chiropractic exams and care. Human and animal athletes use chiropractic care to help prevent injury and increase agility, endurance, and overall performance.

An Animal Chiropractic exam includes evaluating your fur baby’s history, activity level, health state, and prior x-rays and tests. The exam includes a neurological exam, stance and gait analysis, and motion and static palpation. Depending on your fur baby’s condition he/she will need adjustments monthly or as needed.

Because veterinarians are not taught animal chiropractic in school and human chiropractors are not taught veterinary medicine or animal anatomy during school – Animal Chiropractors need to receive post-graduate training. Veterinarians or human chiropractors who have not completed post-graduate training in animal chiropractic from an accredited program may cause damage to your pet.

Grooming Tip of the Week

It is important to regularly check your dog’s paws to make sure they are not infected, or have a wound or foreign object stuck in or between their pads. If you take your dog for long walks or hikes, make sure a pebble or piece of glass has not entered their pad. If your dog has long hair that tends to matt, check between the toes to make sure there are no matts. Be mindful of hot pavements in the summer and rock salt in the winter that can burn paw pads. Rule of thumb – if you would not walk on it barefoot, your dog won’t either.