Last Updated on 3 months ago by Dr Alisha Barnes
When traditional veterinary care isn’t quite enough to address your pet’s mobility issues or chronic pain, you might find yourself wondering about alternative treatments. That’s where a certified animal chiropractor comes into the picture. However, not all animal chiropractors are created equal. The key to ensuring your pet’s safety and achieving the best results lies in choosing someone who’s properly certified and experienced.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make this important decision for your beloved companion.
What Is Animal Chiropractic Care?
Animal chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders through manual adjustment of the spine and joints. Unlike human chiropractic care, animal chiropractic requires specialized training to understand different anatomies and behaviors across species.
How It Differs from Other Treatments
While veterinary medicine addresses diseases and injuries through medication and surgery, animal chiropractic takes a different approach:
- Traditional veterinary care: Focuses on diagnosis, medication, and surgical interventions
- Animal chiropractic: Addresses joint dysfunction and nervous system imbalances through manual therapy
- Other holistic treatments: Include acupuncture (needles), massage (soft tissue), and physical rehabilitation (exercises)
Animals That Benefit Most
We’ve successfully treated a wide variety of animals, including:
- Dogs and cats: Especially senior pets with arthritis or mobility issues
- Horses: Performance animals and those with back pain
- Livestock: Cattle and sheep with movement restrictions
- Exotic pets: Birds, rabbits, and other small mammals (with specialized techniques)
What Makes a Chiropractor “Certified”?
Here’s where things get crucial for your pet’s safety. Not everyone who claims to work on animals has the proper training. A certified animal chiropractor has completed rigorous education and meets strict standards set by recognized organizations.
Recognized Certifying Bodies
Two main organizations set the gold standard for animal chiropractic certification:
Training Requirements
Both AVCA and IVCA require extensive education before certification:
- Prerequisites: Must be either a licensed veterinarian or human chiropractor
- Course hours: Minimum 150-220 hours of specialized animal chiropractic training
- Practical experience: Hands-on training with live animals under supervision
- Written and practical exams: Comprehensive testing of knowledge and skills
- Continuing education: Annual requirements to maintain certification
Legal Regulations
This is important to understand. Many states require that only veterinarians perform animal chiropractic, or that non-veterinary chiropractors work under veterinary referral. In Colorado, where we practice, non-veterinary chiropractors can work on animals with proper certification and veterinary referral.
Always check your local laws, as regulations vary significantly by state and country.
Key Factors to Look for in a Certified Animal Chiropractor
When searching for the right practitioner for your pet, we recommend focusing on these essential criteria:
1. Verified Credentials
Start with the directories. Both AVCA and IVCA maintain searchable online directories of certified practitioners. This should be your first stop when looking for a pet chiropractor in your area.
Don’t just take someone’s word for it. Ask to see their certification certificate and verify it through the certifying body’s website.
2. Species-Specific Experience
Not all animal chiropractors work with every type of animal. If you have a horse, you’ll want someone experienced with equine anatomy. For your dog or cat, look for practitioners who regularly treat small animals.
3. Collaborative Approach
The best veterinary chiropractors work hand-in-hand with your regular veterinarian. Red flags include:
- Practitioners who discourage you from consulting your vet
- Those who diagnose serious medical conditions outside their scope
- Anyone who suggests stopping prescribed medications without veterinary input
We always encourage our clients to maintain regular veterinary care and coordinate treatment plans when possible.
4. Personalized Treatment Plans
Every animal is unique. A quality dog chiropractor will:
- Conduct thorough initial evaluations
- Develop customized treatment protocols
- Adjust techniques based on your pet’s response
- Set realistic expectations for outcomes
5. Transparency and Communication
Your chosen practitioner should clearly explain:
- Techniques they’ll use: What adjustments they plan to make
- Expected timeline: How many sessions your pet might need
- Cost breakdown: Session fees and any additional charges
- Potential risks: While rare, complications can occur
Warning Signs to Avoid
Be cautious of practitioners who:
- Cannot provide proof of current certification
- Make unrealistic promises or guarantee “miracle cures”
- Pressure you into expensive treatment packages
- Refuse to work with your veterinarian
- Have no online reviews or professional references
Practical Considerations for Pet Owners
Cost Expectations
Animal chiropractic care typically costs between $75-$150 per session, depending on your location and the practitioner’s experience. Initial consultations may cost more due to the comprehensive evaluation required.
Most pets need 3-6 sessions for acute issues, while chronic conditions may require ongoing maintenance care every 4-8 weeks.
Insurance Coverage
Unfortunately, most pet insurance policies don’t cover chiropractic care yet. However, some progressive insurers are beginning to include alternative therapies. Check with your provider about:
- Coverage for “complementary therapies”
- Requirements for veterinary referral
- Annual limits on alternative treatments
Finding Practitioners Near You
The most reliable methods include:
- AVCA/IVCA directories: Start here for verified practitioners
- Veterinary referrals: Ask your regular vet for recommendations
- Professional networks: Contact local veterinary colleges or animal hospitals
- Online reviews: Check Google, Yelp, and specialized pet care sites
Preparing for Your Pet’s First Visit
To ensure the best experience:
- Bring medical records: Recent vet records and any diagnostic images
- List current medications: Include supplements and other treatments
- Note behavioral changes: When did you first notice problems?
- Plan for comfort: Bring your pet’s favorite blanket or treats
Choosing the Right Certified Animal Chiropractor for Your Pet
The journey to finding the right certified animal chiropractor doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on proper certification, relevant experience, and a collaborative approach to your pet’s health, you’re already on the right track.
Remember, the goal isn’t to replace your veterinarian but to complement their care with specialized manual therapy. When done correctly by a qualified professional, animal chiropractic can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life and mobility.
Ready to give your pet the specialized care they deserve? Use the above methods to find a certified animal chiropractor near you today. Your furry friend will thank you for taking this important step toward better health and happiness.
At Tails Animal Chiropractic Care, Serving the Fort Collins (80525) and Broomfield (80021) communities with certified, compassionate animal chiropractic care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is animal chiropractic safe?
Yes, when performed by a properly certified animal chiropractor. Serious complications are extremely rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases according to AVCA data. The most common side effects are mild soreness that resolves within 24-48 hours.
Do animal chiropractors need to be veterinarians?
Not necessarily. Both veterinarians and human chiropractors can become certified animal chiropractors through AVCA or IVCA programs. However, some states require veterinary oversight or referral regardless of the practitioner’s background.
What’s the difference between AVCA and IVCA certification?
Both organizations maintain high standards, but AVCA focuses primarily on North American practices while IVCA has a more international scope. The training requirements are similar, and both certifications are widely respected in the field.
How do I know if my pet really needs a chiropractor?
Common signs include difficulty jumping or climbing stairs, reluctance to move normally, changes in gait, sensitivity when touched along the spine, and decreased activity levels. However, always consult your veterinarian first to rule out serious underlying conditions.