Animal Chiropractic at Family Chiropractic
Just as with people, animals can suffer from spinal problems and misalignments. This manifests in a number of different ways, including back or neck pain, poor performance due to physical limitations, and even various health problems due to nerve compression. Dr. Starr has completed over 200 hours of Animal Chiropractic education at Options for Animals and is certified as an Animal Chiropractor by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. For more information on Animal Chiropractic Care, you can call Dr. Starr at (604) 594-7774 or visit the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association Website at www.ivca.de.
What are warning signs that my animal may be in need of Chiropractic care?
You may notice your dog cries when you pick him up, can’t get up as easily onto the couch, is less interested in walks, or has decreased performance in his or her sport. Similar for a horse, he/she may not be picking up a certain lead or flexing at the poll, or may be moving stiffly. Other signs that your animal may benefit from chiropractic treatment:
- Acute neck and back pain
- Limited performance
- Reluctance to move, climb stairs, or jump into raised areas
- Signs of pain when performing certain movements or being lifted
- Undefined lameness, ambling or slow gait, worn down nails on one or more paws
- Hypersensitivity to touch
- Lick granuloma on legs or paws
- Recurrent ear or anal gland infections
- Altered sitting positions (so-called “puppy sitting”)
- The animal lies on only one side
- Recurrent digestive problems
- Dripping urine or inability to hold faeces
What can I expect during a treatment?
An animal chiropractor will primarily examine your animal for joints that are not moving properly. These areas can cause pain, misalignment, biomechanical problems, and in the spine, compressed nerves that can influence your animal’s health in many different ways. A joint that isn’t moving properly called a subluxation is corrected with a chiropractic adjustment. This is a gentle specific quick thrust into the joint to restore proper motion and mechanics. Dr. Starr is a doctor of Chiropractic and is not a veterinarian. Therefore, she cannot diagnose outside of her scope of practice. If she feels any underlying causes are outside of what she can diagnosis or treat, she will refer you back to your veterinarian for future diagnostics.
Fees
| Dog/Small Animal | Fee |
| Initial Visit | $75.00 |
| Subsequent Visits | $60.00 |
What do I need to bring to my first visit?
If you have had any X-rays or MRIs done for your animal before your first visit, it is also helpful to bring along any films or reports for us to review during your appointment. We also recommend bringing in any favourite treats or toys that may help alleviate any anxiety of the first visit to our clinic for your animal.
Give Family Chiropractic a call to schedule an appointment so we can help your pet live a long and healthy life!
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