Animal chiropractic is focused on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in animals, particularly related to the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system.

The goal of animal chiropractic care is to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance the overall well-being by using a variety of techniques such as: joint mobilizations and manipulations, soft tissue therapy, exercise therapy, and modalities such as cold laser and vibration therapy.

Common conditions treated through chiropractic care include but are not limited to: arthritis, muscle strains, hip dysplasia, and general mobility issues. It can also be helpful for preventing injuries, improving performance, and enhancing recovery after surgery or injury.

Animal chiropractic care is non-invasive, and is a safe and effective therapy when performed by a certified and experienced practitioner.

Important Note: Animal chiropractic does not replace Veterinary Medicine, but it works in conjunction with it to create a holistic approach to your pet’s health.

Here are a few signs your pet might benefit:

• Mobility Issues: Limping, stiffness, difficulty getting up or lying down, reluctance to jump or climb.
• Pain or sensitivity: excessive licking, sensitivity with touched (especially along the spine or joints), whining or whimpering, changes in temperament or behaviour.
• Previous injuries/trauma: Healing after surgery, trauma, or an injury.
• Performance Enhancement: Support for working dogs, agility dogs, or equestrian animals.
• Preventative Care: Keeping healthy pets moving and feeling their best for as long as possible!

The first requirement is to complete a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program. This generally takes about 4 years and involves extensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, diagnosis, and spinal manipulation. After completing the DC program, practitioners are also required to pass licensing exams to start practising.

After becoming a licensed chiropractor, specialized education in animal chiropractic must be pursued through an accredited institution such as the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Centre (VCLC). This program involves over 220 hours of studying the specific musculoskeletal and neurological systems of animals, learning specialized adjustment techniques, and understanding how to assess and treat animals safely.

Cold laser therapy, also known as Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve tissue function.

Common uses of cold laser therapy in Animals include:

• Arthritis
• Soft tissue injuries
• Post-surgical recovery
• Wound healing
• Chronic pain
• Tendon and ligament injuries