Skip NavigationSkip to Primary Content

Chiropractic Care for Dogs

Therapy

A dog looking to the right while standing on a rocky beach during sunset

April 11, 2022

Homeopathy, acupuncture, calming flower essences, massage, and chiropractic care are alternative therapies that can benefit dogs significantly. These alternative therapies fall under (CAM) complementary and alternative medicine. Veterinarians and pet owners alike have become aware of the value of these holistic treatments. Of these therapies, chiropractic care for dogs is the most popular.

Chiropractors at Tampa Bay K9 Rehabilitation Center address issues of mobility with canines. If the pet is having trouble moving around or getting up, you should first visit the veterinarian. Your vet will tell you when to take your dog to a chiropractor. They can refer you to a qualified professional.

SYMPTOMS THAT YOUR DOG NEEDS A CHIROPRACTOR

When there are changes in the usual movements of your pet, a chiropractor is an excellent option to correct it. Does your dog have a new limp? Has it had a fall? Does the skin on its back twitch a lot?

Here are symptoms to look out for to know if your dog needs to see a chiropractor:

  • Lower back pain

  • Hesitation when climbing up or jumping down

  • Difficulty walking

  • Lowering their head

  • Their back arches

  • Crooked sitting

  • Avoiding putting weight on limbs

  • Shifting their weight from side to side or back to front

  • Limping

  • Difficulty getting on their feet

  • Change in their gait

  • Wincing or heavy panting when touched or lifted

  • Trouble squatting to go to the bathroom

  • Difficulty turning 

Usually, dogs have a habit of hiding their injuries through compensation. Compensation can go on until your pet breaks down completely. It would be best to observe your pet to notice the subtle changes in their gait, movement, and overall well-being.

IF YOUR DOG IS LIMPING

When your dog starts limping, your first stop should be the vet. The vet will examine your dog to ascertain it has no major problem. When dogs are playing, they can move part of their bodies out of alignment. The chiropractor can quickly fix the alignment. Chiropractors can help ensure that your dog does not have any injury and keep compensating for it. They can, however, not treat your dog for an ACL tear. 

HOW MANY TIMES SHOULD MY DOG SEE THE CHIROPRACTOR?

Your dog should see the chiropractor at Tampa Bay K9 Rehabilitation Center at least two to three times a year. Making regular visits to the chiropractor is good preventive care. If your pet is involved in labor or is older, you should take them to see a chiropractor four times a year. 

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY DOG GET ADJUSTMENTS?

Compared to people, dogs have a more intense response to adjustments. Your dog might sleep the whole day after an adjustment. Hence, you should take your pets for adjustment a few times a year on routine visits and once a week for major issues. You could see improvement within the first visit for major problems.

For more on when your dog needs chiropractic care, visit Tampa Bay K9 Rehabilitation Center at our office in St. Petersburg, Florida. You can also call (727) 521-3518 to book an appointment today.