Whether you’re the proud pet parent of a sprightly sporting dog, a beloved senior companion, or just focused on maintaining your four-legged family member’s overall health and happiness, understanding the role of chiropractic care in your pet’s life is crucial.
But with so many chiropractic practice options, how do you ensure you make the best choice? This is your go-to guide for navigating the world of canine chiropractic care.
From understanding qualifications to knowing what questions to ask, we’re here to guide you through this critical journey toward your dog’s health and happiness.
What Is Dog Chiropractic Care, and How Does It Work?
Dog chiropractic care is a specialized approach focused on the health and alignment of your dog’s spine. It revolves around the idea that many issues in a dog’s body are linked to abnormal movements or misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations.
These subluxations can impact the nervous system, affecting the entire body. Through chiropractic adjustment, a trained animal chiropractor applies a swift, gentle thrust along the dog’s spine.
This procedure removes these subluxations, realigning the spinal column and kick-starting the body’s natural healing process.
Chiropractic treatment enhances overall mobility and improves nervous system function, which is vital since the nervous system orchestrates every bodily function.
After a comprehensive examination, a chiropractor may adjust the limbs or jaw if necessary. This form of care is an effective method to address various musculoskeletal conditions in your pet. Additionally, it is crucial in boosting their quality of life and performance, whether they’re family pets, aging companions, or athletic performers.
Why Does Your Dog Need Animal Chiropractic Care?
Like humans, dogs can greatly benefit from chiropractic care, but the reasons for seeking this treatment vary widely.
For some dogs, especially those of active breeds or those involved in sports, chiropractic care is essential for maintaining peak physical condition.
It helps manage the wear and tear of high activity levels, prevent injuries, and enhance performance. On the other hand, older dogs may struggle with age-related issues like arthritis or decreased mobility.
Chiropractic care can provide them with much-needed relief and improve their quality of life. It’s also beneficial for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries, aiding in faster and more effective healing.
Regular chiropractic check-ups can be an excellent preventative measure, even if your dog has no specific health issues. They ensure that your dog maintains optimal health and mobility, preventing potential problems from arising. This holistic approach to your pet’s health can significantly impact their well-being and happiness.
How Can You Identify a Trustworthy Dog Chiropractor?
Identifying a trustworthy dog chiropractor involves looking for someone with experience, skill, and a genuine passion for animal welfare.
A reliable chiropractor should have a solid educational background, substantial experience, and a good reputation among pet owners. They should also show empathy and understanding toward animals, ensuring a comfortable experience for your pet.
Dr. Melissa Shaw exemplifies these qualities. With 16 years of practice under her belt, she combines extensive experience with a profound dedication to animal care. Certified by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association, she stands out as a prime example of what to look for in a trustworthy dog chiropractor.
Checking Credentials: What Certifications Matter?
When checking a chiropractor’s credentials, you want to ensure they have the right qualifications and certifications. This includes a professional degree in chiropractic care and additional specialized training in animal chiropractic techniques.
Doctor of Chiropractic and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine are the only professionals who can become Certified Animal Chiropractors. This is done by completing 200+ hours of post-graduate work focusing on animal chiropractic care and passing a written and practical examination through either IVCA or ACVA.
Dr. Shaw’s credentials are a testament to her expertise. Her journey began with a chiropractic degree from Cleveland Chiropractic College, followed by over 200 hours of postgraduate work at Options for Animals College of Animal Chiropractic.
Her International Veterinary Chiropractic Association certification further cements her position as a highly qualified professional—this combination of education and accreditation places Dr. Shaw at the forefront of trustworthy and competent animal chiropractors.
Personalized Approach: Do They Tailor Their Services?
A personalized approach is crucial in dog chiropractic care. It involves understanding each animal’s unique needs and tailoring the treatment accordingly. A good chiropractor should build a rapport with your pet, making them feel comfortable and at ease throughout the process.
Dr. Shaw excels in this aspect. Her technique isn’t just about the physical adjustment; it’s about building a bond of trust and comfort with each animal. She conducts thorough examinations to identify specific problems and then applies gentle chiropractic adjustments.
Her approach, often concluding with a comforting hug and a playful interaction with your pet, underscores her personalized care. Dr. Shaw’s follow-up checks also demonstrate her ongoing commitment to your pet’s well-being.
Please note that a veterinarian referral is required before Dr. Shaw considers treatment. She works with your veterinarian to create the best outcome for your pet.
Positive Feedback: What Do Other Dog Owners Say?
Feedback from other dog owners can be incredibly insightful when choosing a chiropractor. Positive reviews and testimonials reflect the chiropractor’s ability to deliver effective and compassionate care.
Dr. Shaw’s practice is well-regarded, as evidenced by the glowing testimonials from pet parents.
Daniel B and Dakota: “Dr. Shaw has helped my senior dog tremendously. Before treatment, she was having serious difficulty getting up and down and was struggling with mobility. With routine adjustments, her ability to move has increased and she’s experiencing less of the aches and pains of aging. After each treatment, she rolls around like a happy puppy!”
Charlene D: “I have two Rottweilers. One with a torn CCL that Dr. Shaw has been doing cold laser to improve the muscle around the tear. My other needed some adjustments after a run on the beach. It’s great there are non-surgical remedies available to assist in recovery.”
These reviews highlight her professional expertise, compassionate approach, and the positive outcomes experienced by her four-legged clients. Hearing directly from satisfied pet owners provides peace of mind and assurance about the quality of care your pet will receive with Dr. Shaw.
Find the Perfect Chiropractor for Your Dog in Marlton, NJ, Today!
Call us at (866) 592-2742 or, if you’re from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or New York, visit us at 131 Kenilworth Road, Marlton, New Jersey 08053, to learn more about our canine chiropractic care services.
Also, browse our blog and social media for various topics about dogs and their lives with us!