The basis of chiropractic is founded on motion. The body is made up of hundreds of joints that were designed to move. By moving these joints, the body communicates with its central nervous system. Movement is, in fact, the most important input into the brain and spinal cord. It relays all the information that keeps the body functioning normally. When the motion of a joint is restricted, the vital information that passes between the brain, spinal cord and body is compromised. Chiropractors call this condition the ‘Vertebral Subluxation Complex’. This can lead to musculoskeletal issues or lameness, digestive problems, decreased immunity, delayed healing, and many other health concerns. Animal chiropractors identify these subluxations and deliver a chiropractic adjustment that restores motion and communication between the brain, spinal cord and body which optimizes the health, comfort and performance of the animal.

No, the adjustment is a very quick but gentle thrust on the restricted joint. Some animals who are not used to chiropractic may be startled at first, but soon relax and enjoy the treatment. Many animals even fall asleep during the session!

Joint restrictions can be caused by repetitive motions, concussive forces such as jumping, poor nutrition, strenuous training, lack of movement such as stall or kennel confinement, ill-fitting tack, improper shoeing or nail trimming, traumas such as slips or falls, and the aging process.

You may or may not be able to tell that your animal needs an adjustment. Some common signs though, are: change in temperament, loss of interest in activity, tenderness or soreness, discomfort sitting or lying down, gait changes, digestion trouble, asymmetrical movement, or dislike of being brushed or petted.

Absolutely not. Chiropractors and veterinarians must work together to manage the health of the animal.

Only licensed chiropractors or veterinarians who are certified by either the IVCA or AVCA are qualified to adjust animals. Your vet can not adjust your animal unless he or she is a certified Animal Chiropractor.

It depends on the animal. Typically, an animal should have a chiropractic check-up monthly as a preventative. Animals dealing with existing health concerns may require more frequent care. Keep in mind that the longer an issue has persisted, the longer it will take to correct. Most animals struggling with health issues will show improvements by the third to fifth adjustment.

The joint restrictions that require chiropractic care can often be asymptomatic. Over time, these restrictions will cause clinical symptoms which will negatively affect the health of your animal. With regular chiropractic check-ups, we can detect these joint restrictions before they cause symptoms, thereby increasing the health of the animal. It is far easier to prevent a problem than it is to correct a problem.

Not at all! Chiropractic is great for all animals, including cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, cows, llamas, etc!

A typical adjustment takes 15 minutes for a horse or 5 minutes for a small animal. Most animals love getting adjusted. Some even fall asleep during the treatment! Every animal responds differently after the adjustment - some have increased energy, others become lethargic. Dr. Alvarez recommends that all animals should be kept quiet for 24 hours after the adjustment, but allowed freedom to move. Leash walking dogs or turnout for horses is ideal.