Canine Chiropractic Care
Dogs are naturally very active and flexible animals, thriving on exercise, attention and activity. More and more dog owners are seeking to involve their dogs in fun and educational activities. From obedience training to flyball we are now asking our dogs to perform more than ever. Maintaining flexibility of the spine is essential for the dog to be able to perform these activities comfortably and within damage or degeneration occurring.
Many Vets will recommend Chiropractic is used for dogs who suffer injuries or lameness while working or playing. Chiropractic can also help dogs who have behavioural issues such as separation anxiety or systemic disorders such as incontinance. Chiropractic is successfully used to support dogs with diagnosed pathologies such as hip dysplasia and ALC rupture.
A dog who is suffering from subluxations in the spine and joints can often display symptoms such as puppy sitting (grown dogs sitting with the legs out to one side), reluctance to climb stairs or jump up easily, uneven wear of nails, hypersensitivity to situations, lick granuloma to legs and paws and a preference for laying on one side only. A dog might gradually reduce in performance or change in temperament or condition. If your dog has become aggressive, withdrawn and depressed or unsociable he may be in need of help. Dogs who have lost condition, have dry skin, dull coat or rough patches of fur may well be suffering spinal subluxations. Often a hunched posture may be adopted to compensate for discomfort felt.
Chiropractic care can be used following spinal trauma, such as following an RTA, only following X-ray clarification of damage sustained. Dogs with disc problems, cauda equine (& incontinence), recurring anal gland or ear infections, arthrosis/spondylosis and undefined lameness can be helped with Chiropractic care.
Canine Conditions
Canine Conditions successfully treated and managed with Chiropractic Care:
- Spinal Trauma (treatment only following X-Ray)
- Spondylosis (Ossification of the Spine)
- Cauda Equina Syndrome
- Cervical Vertebral Syndrome
- Discopathy (treatment only following X-Ray)
- Lick Granuloma
- Hip Dysplasia, Spondylosis, Arthritis – can be managed and further deterioration reduced
- Sciatica Neuralgia
- Recurrent Anal Gland or Ear Infections
- Incontinence - Particularly common in dogs with Lumbar Subluxations
- Undefined Lameness
- Sports Dogs – both in response to Injury such as caused by repetitive movement and as preventative care
- Geriatric Patients – Improvement in flexibility and mobility
Canine Symptoms
Small animals have various signs and symptoms which can indicate they are suffering with subluxations to the spine or other joints:
- Limited Performance
- Acute and Chronic Back and Neck Pain
- Reluctance to Move, Climb Stairs, Jump Up
- Yelping when being lifted
- Ambling, Slow Gait, Uneven Wear on Claws, Undiagnosed Lameness
- Hypersensitivity to Touch, Lick Granulomas on Legs
- Recurrent Ear or Anal Gland infections
- Puppy Sitting, Favouring Lying on One Side
- Digestive Problems, Incontinence
Chiropractic Assessment
Chiropractic care for dogs should only be carried out with prior consent from your dog’s Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon. Before any treatment begins, your Chiropractor will carry out a thorough assessment, which typically includes the following:
- Veterinary History: Your Chiropractor will ask about any changes in your dog’s behaviour, activity levels and overall health, including any veterinary diagnoses. It’s important to share details of any accidents, injuries or illnesses your dog has experienced, along with any treatments or medications they’ve received. This is also the stage where your Chiropractor will explain what Veterinary Chiropractic involves and answer any questions or concerns you may have. They may also wish to discuss collars, harnesses or other equipment your dog regularly wears.
- Static and Motion Assessment: Your dog’s posture and conformation will be observed, with attention paid to coat texture, temperature changes and muscular imbalances. Your Chiropractor will then assess your dog’s gait by watching them walk and turn, noting any irregularities in movement or stride.
- Physical Assessment & Motion Palpation: At this point, your Chiropractor will examine your dog’s joints, particularly those in the pelvis, spine and limbs, to identify any areas of restricted movement or subluxation. You may be invited to feel the difference in mobility before and after adjustment, helping you understand the nature of the restriction and its impact.
- Adjustment: Once subluxated joints are identified, your Chiropractor will perform a precise, quick adjustment to restore normal joint movement and support the function of the nervous system. Massage and stretching techniques may also be used to aid your dog’s recovery. Chiropractic care can help reduce pain, improve posture and relieve muscular tension.
- Reassessment & Recommendations: Following the adjustment, your Chiropractor may reassess your dog’s movement to compare with initial findings. You’ll receive a report outlining the results of the assessment, along with tailored recommendations for ongoing care and exercise. Your Chiropractor will also advise on how many sessions may be needed to support your dog’s health and wellbeing.
- Post-Treatment Care: Dogs should ideally rest for 48 hours after an adjustment. This period allows the nervous system to reset, which can have a significant effect. Many dogs become sleepy following treatment and may prefer to lie down or be left undisturbed for a while. If you notice any concerning changes in your dog’s behaviour after chiropractic care, please contact your Chiropractor or your Veterinary Surgeon.
Pricing
If your dog is receiving Chiropractic Care as part of an insurance claim, treatment is often eligible under the alternative therapies section of your policy. Please ensure your Veterinary Surgeon is willing to approve the treatment beforehand. A receipt will be provided for you to submit to your insurer.
Before your dog’s initial chiropractic assessment, written consent must be obtained from their Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon. It is a legal requirement that no one other than your vet may treat your dog without prior authorisation.
For current pricing or to enquire about chiropractic care for other animals, please contact Isabelle by text, phone or email.
Areas Served
London and the Home Counties, including Middlesex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Surrey and Essex
Tel: 07733 332789