Animal Chiropractic

Chiropractic Care is a holistic approach to many of the health and performance problems of in humans as well as pets. It is a Health Care System based on movement and symmetry, but does NOT replace traditional veterinary medicine and surgery. Chiropractic offers and provides an alternative method of care that often complements traditional care. Used concurrently, many animals? musculoskeletal conditions respond dramatically, and rehabilitation can take place quickly and efficiently. Chiropractic Care focuses on the health and proper movement of all joints in the body, but especially the proper functioning of the spinal column.

Hip, shoulder and spine dysfunction can cause a variety of symptoms from very mild to very severe. The most common of which is PAIN. Animals in pain will compensate in gait or posture and often refuse to perform certain tasks.

- "Puppy" sitting, or sitting with the rear legs off 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 behavior patterns; fear biting.
- Sensitivity to touch.
- Facial expression of apprehension or pain.
- Lack of coordination in gaits.
- Pacing.
- "Lameness" that seems to move from limb to limb.
- Stiffness.
- Stiffness in 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

- Most animals accept both the exam and adjustment without signs of pain.
- When a painful area is found, the practitioner will use the gentlest techniques to reduce pain before delivering an adjustment.
- In cases of acute or extreme pain, the doctor will often delay the complete adjustment until your companion can be relaxed.
- Sometimes gentle restraint or assistance by the owner or technician will help calm the animal and make the adjustment safer for all parties
- Once in a while sedation or muzzling is appropriate if the animal is aggressive or in extreme acute pain

Animals need a veterinarian's referral for chiropractic care. Dr. Lee works in conjunction with Essex Veterinary Center and coordinates all chiropractic care with their doctors. All chiropractic treatments are administered in the Essex Vet Center facility and overseen by the staff veterinarians.

For appointments, please call Essex Veterinary Center at 802.879.1399