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Chiropractic care is a very popular human treatment that is often used instead of, or alongside, conventional medicine. However, vets have discovered that the techniques and treatments used in chiropractic care have just as many benefits for dogs too, and as such, an increasing number of veterinary practices are now offering chiropractic appointments to their furry patients and their owners.

Chiropractic care focuses predominantly on the musculoskeletal system – the network of bones, muscles and connective tissues that create form and facilitate movement. By realigning the musculoskeletal system, and in particular the spine, chiropractors have found that it is possible to improve a dog’s mobility, reduce their pain and enhance their overall health and wellbeing, as well as the quality of their life.
 

How does chiropractic care work?

Chiropractic care focuses on correcting any abnormalities in the alignment of your dog’s musculoskeletal system. In doing so, the process releases any areas of pressure and tension so that trapped nerves can be freed, and your dog’s nervous system can function properly again. Increased blood flow is another positive effect of chiropractic care in dogs, and this enables oxygen and other important nutrients to pass around the body to all the major organs, as well as reaching any areas that require healing, accelerating this process.
 

Conditions that can be treated with canine chiropractic care

Dogs can suffer from a wide range of different health issues during the course of their lifetime. Chiropractic care has been proven to be effective at alleviating the symptoms and treating the underlying cause of the following conditions:

• Arthritis

• Chronic pain conditions

• Degenerative disc disease

• Gastrointestinal problems

• Healing after trauma, specifically tissue healing and muscle growth

• Hip dysplasia 

• Incontinence

• Mobility issues such as difficulty going up or down stairs

• Muscle spasms

• Nerve problems

• Reproductive issues

• Respiratory problems

• Separation anxiety

• Skin problems like allergic dermatitis and ringworm

• Stiffness and tension

• Stress caused by travel

• Travel sickness

• Benefits of canine chiropractic care

There are plenty of benefits when you choose chiropractic care – either alongside conventional medicine or as a standalone treatment - to help treat your canine companion.

Drug-free pain relief.

No pet owner wants to see their furbaby in pain. However, many are also reluctant for their animal to take and potentially become reliant on medications to keep their discomfort under control. Fortunately, chiropractic treatment will stimulate your dog’s natural pain-relieving endorphins, reducing or eliminating their need for pain relief drugs.
 

A non-invasive treatment.

Some types of injury or medical condition require invasive action to help your pet find some relief. However, chiropractic care is completely non-invasive, meaning no wounds, no anesthetic and no downtime for your canine pal.
 

Faster recovery from injury.

If your dog has sustained an injury, you will be keen to get them back on their feet as quickly as possible. The improved circulation triggered by chiropractic care can speed up the rate at which healing nutrients are delivered to the areas of your pet’s body that need them most, accelerating the rate at which they could recover.  
 

Improved mobility.

Good mobility is very important for our pet’s quality of life. Your dog won’t be fully happy unless they can move around easily, run and play without pain. Chiropractic treatments can reduce inflammation in the joints, relieving stiffness and discomfort and improving your canine’s mobility.
 

Personalized treatment.

No two dogs are the same. Chiropractic treatment can be tailored to the individual needs of your furry friend. Their response will also be monitored so that the treatment program can be adjusted as is necessary to produce the best results for your dog.

For more information about canine chiropractic care, or to schedule an appointment for your dog, please call Bergen County Veterinary Center at (201)-205-2500.