Should My Dog Visit the Chiropractor?
Many humans swear by their visits to the chiropractor, but what about our dogs? Many alternative therapies like massages, homeopathy, and acupuncture can be very beneficial for dogs to try out. Whether you choose to take your dog to the chiropractor is ultimately up to you, but your vet can provide helpful advice or referrals if they think your dog needs to see the chiropractor. Read on for more helpful information about pet chiropractors and what they can do for your pooch!
Choosing a Dog Chiropractor
Just like any doctor or medical professional, dog chiropractors need the appropriate credentials before they can call themselves a dog chiropractor. While training and program requirements vary by state, most animal chiropractic programs require 210 additional hours of study at an Animal Chiropractic Certification Commission (ACCC). Animal chiropractors can then handle osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and other musculoskeletal ailments. Choosing a canine chiropractor can be difficult, but if your vet gave you a referral, you should be able to trust your doggy chiropractor. Otherwise, use the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association website to search for dog chiropractors near you that are members of the association. Being in the association is a sign that the chiropractor has completed postgraduate schooling and passed testing.
What to Expect from Your Visit to the Dog Chiropractor
Your first visit will consist of a thorough exam and assessment so the chiropractor can gauge how your dog moves and stands. From there, the chiropractor will likely perform an adjustment and devise a treatment plan with feedback from you, the pet parent. Your chiropractor should do their best to accommodate you and your pet’s unique needs. Some pets need more than one appointment for adjustments, but once your doggo is back to moving how they should be and can enjoy life again, the treatment is complete! Dog chiropractors see all kinds of dogs, from canine athletes to dogs predisposed to IVDD to those with full-blown arthritis. Be patient with your dog’s treatment progress and keep in mind that your chiropractor is trained and qualified to handle your pooch’s condition.
Chiropractic Side Effects in Dogs
Your dog may be sleepy after visiting the chiropractor, but this is normal. Adjustments can also lead to some minor soreness, but after two days, your doggo should be back to their normal self, only more mobile! If chiropractic care is performed when there is a fracture or diabetes that hasn’t been diagnosed, chiropractic care can worsen the problem. However, as long as you’re taking the appropriate cautionary measures and using your vet as a sound resource, animal chiropractic is perfectly safe and can be extremely beneficial for your dog. Using medicine and other forms of treatment to complement chiropractic care will make treatment even more effective.
Chiropractic care isn’t for every dog, but if you’re concerned about your dog’s mobility and musculoskeletal health, it could be the right solution to your dog’s condition. Talk to your vet to find out if paying a visit to the chiropractor should be your next step!