What is Veterinary Chiropractic?
Most people have at least a slight familiarity with chiropractic care for humans. Many, however, may not be aware that similar care is available for their pets. Chiropractic can be used in veterinary medicine for various reasons from easing pain to giving athletic pets an edge by helping to keep their bodies tuned. For some pets, the benefits of chiropractic are immediate and visible.
How Does It Work?
Chiropractors carefully manipulate joints to restore correct alignment, which is believed to improve nerve function throughout the body. Through examination, practitioners aim to identify and then treat subluxations, or misalignments of joints. These misalignments result in a change in nerve function, which may present as limping, behavior changes, and/or pain.
Does My Pet Need Chiropractic Care?
All pets can benefit from chiropractic care as with a complete physical exam. Healthy, normal sport or working dogs and horses can benefit from chiropractic as a tool for helping to reach peak performance. Older animals can achieve possible reduction in pain level and increased mobility, leading to a better quality of life.
Does It Hurt?
Generally, no. Most pets visibly relax during a chiropractic adjustment and, many happily greet their veterinary chiropractor at their next visit. If your pet is already in pain, the veterinary chiropractor may need to work on that area of your pet’s body and there may be tender points. The discomfort is very brief and your pet should feel much better afterwards.
How Long Will It Take?
Depending on your pet’s condition, your first appointment may take 30-45 minutes. Follow-ups are generally quicker and should take less than 30 minutes.
Can Anyone Perform a Chiropractic Adjustment On My Pet?
No. Only a licensed chiropractor or veterinarian that has taken an approved course can adjust animals. Be aware that there are several short weekend courses that claim to certify a person in veterinary chiropractic in less than 2 days. Dr. King has taken a 226 hour post-graduate course at the Healing Oasis Wellness Center in Sturtevant, Wisconsin, which is the only program approved by the US Department of Education.
What Does It Cost?
For small animals, it is $60.00 for the first visit then $50.00 for each additional visit. For horses, it is $120.00 for the first visit then $100.00 for each additional visit.
If there are 3 or more pets seen on the same day from the same family, there is a 10% multiple pet discount.
Where Am I Located?
Dr. King see small animals at Palos Animal Hospital but she can also travel to your home. Horses are seen at their location. If the travel distant is more than 10 miles from Orland Park, there is a 3 animal minimum. Please note: all appointments are scheduled with Dr. King by calling the number below.
Call (708) 955-1884 to schedule an appointment for your pet!
