Animal Chiropractic

What is Animal Chiropractic?

Animal Chiropractic is the philosophy, science and art that utilizes the inherent recuperative powers of the body. It deals with restoring the important relationship between the spine and nervous system in order to regain and maintain health. The goal of chiropractic therapy is to correct subluxations.

What are subluxations?

The word describes bones which are out of position in relation to one another or are not moving properly – causing abnormal function and symptoms.

How do I know if my dog is subluxated? (Symptoms)

Subluxations can cause a variety of symptoms, from very mild to very severe. The most common of which is PAIN. Dogs in pain will compensate in gait or posture and often refuse to perform certain tasks. The following is a list of symptoms that MAY indicate pain from the presence of a subluxation:

• Puppy sitting, or sitting with the rear legs out to one side
• Discomfort when putting on or taking off collars and harnesses
• Abnormal posture when standing
• Evasion type maneuvers such as dipping head or hollowing back
• Wringing or tucking tail
• Refusing or unwillingness to go over jumps
• Change in behaviour patterns; fear biting
• Sensitivity to touch
• Facial expression of apprehension or pain
• Changes in Co-ordination

Subluxations can also cause change in muscle coordination and flexibility.

These conditions may cause:

• Lack of coordination in gaits
• Pacing
• “ Lameness” that seems to move from limb to limb
• Stiffness coming out of the crate or kennel
• Stiffness in the side movement of the body or neck
• Muscle atrophy or shrinking
• Shortened stride in one or two limbs
• Decreased extension in front or rear
• Side-winding or crabbing
• Stumbling on dog walk
• Partial weakness or paralysis

Diagnosis

The first step in chiropractic therapy is to make a diagnosis. A thorough examination begins by observing the patient standing and walking. A chiropractor is looking for minor changes in motion that require a trained eye to detect, not just an obvious limp.

Article excerpt courtesy of Animal chiropractic clinic 4202 Dundas Street West, Toronto Ontario
M8X 1Y6 phone: 416-231-2487 fax: 416-231-5631