DogsGive Your Dog the Performance Edge Specializing in the treatment of various movement and injury related problems for Agility, Working trials, Gun, Working and Obedience dogs. If you think your four legged friend is getting a bit stiff or not moving correctly, then I may be able to help. My clients have included top National racing greyhounds, agility, working trials and obedience dogs. Causes and SymptomsSport injuries, rough play and conformation issues can all effect the balance and alignment of a dog's muscles structure. Other events causing dogs injuries which can benefit from chiropractic care include:
|
|
Indications that a spine is in tension will cause the action of the dog for example to:
- have uneven and shortening of strides
- lack of mobility and flexibility
- had a fall, bang, any trauma or accident
- loss of stamina, bad attitude and behavioral problems
- uneven muscle development or generally just dull
Symptoms can include crying out when getting up, difficulty climbing stairs or jumping into cars, displaying discomfort when stroked along their backs or reluctance to exercise.
Evaluation
Prompt assessment of an injury following a tumble or injury can quickly relieve symptoms and speed up the healing process. Trauma, over-exertion and normal ‘wear and tear ‘ of living can cause injuries to the muscles and joints of the body, resulting in a fixation with reduced motion, which in chiropractic terms is called a subluxation. Chiropractic adjustments can, and do, relieve these symptoms and allow the spine to have optimal flexibility, which is important for working and performance animals. Chiropractic treatment can also reduce compensations or fixations that are as a result of bio mechanical conformation issues, such as hip dysplasia. Chiropractic care will allow the dog to move more freely and with less pain.
The Adjustment Process
After the evaluation, a combination of hands on, or "activator" enhanced low force adjustments are made, and the patient is observed for releases. Often the change is dramatic, as in a visable relaxation, softening of the eye, and sense of calm. Most canine patients enthusiastically show Dr. Joni their appreciation after a treatment session.
Flow Therapy
Dr. Joni incorporates Flow therapy into chiropractic work, or uses it as a stand alone modality. Flow is a gentle, very specific touch that allows a person or animal to become healthier, both physically and emotionally.
It was developed by Dr. Lance Wright, DC, to assist the body in dropping tension, thus increasing oxygen and blood flow. What makes Flow unique is the direct communication that happens neurologically. Often, 2 to 5 touches in less than 5 minutes can bring substantial changes. Flow can be done on any person or animal, regardless of age or physical condition.
Some Common Adjustments
 working with joints of the leg |
 low back |
 sacrum |
|
 A big "thank you" |
 working the back |
Dr Vachon works in conjunction with your veterinarian on all animal patients. Chiropractic care does not take the place of veterinary care.