Can chiropractic help dogs?
First of all, I strongly insist all dogs should have a thorough veterinary examination, to rule out any other health conditions (in dog health), before any chiropractic work is done.
Chiropractic Care for Dogs: Enhancing Quality of Life
As a chiropractor with over 35 years of experience, I have witnessed first hand the profound impact that chiropractic care can have on a dog’s well-being. My practice is rooted in the belief that by maximizing biomechanical function or “motion is the lotion”, we have the possibility of significantly improving a dog’s comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life.
Before We Begin: Veterinary Clearance
To ensure the safety and health of your pet, I strongly recommend a thorough veterinary examination before any chiropractic work is performed. This ensures we rule out underlying health conditions that require primary veterinary attention.
My Approach to Animal Chiropractic
My journey into animal chiropractic began while living in a large farming community. For my first decade of practice, I was the only chiropractor in the district, and my human patients often asked if I could apply the same chiropractic principles to their working dogs. I soon discovered that the biomechanical principles used for humans can be incredibly effective for dogs, and I began adapting specialised instruments and methods to safely treat them.
Over the years, my clientele has grown to include breeders, show dogs, and beloved family pets.
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Owners are often the first to notice the positive changes. After treatment, many report that their dogs seem to “reclaim” their lives—moving with ease, engaging in play, and showing renewed motivation. Conversely, when a dog is in pain or physically restricted, they often become stiff, unmotivated, and prone to weight gain due to a lack of exercise.
My focus is on two key areas:
 1/Hip and Mobility Issues: While hip dysplasia is a common concern, many “movement” issues stem from secondary compensations. Chiropractic care can help enhance function in these secondary compensation areas which can ease overall pain, even in dogs with diagnosed dysplasia, helping to slow at times the expected physical decline.
2/ Cervical (Neck) Health: A dog’s neck is highly vulnerable to injury from jumping and active play. Just as a human with a stiff neck struggles to run or stay active, a dog with cervical discomfort will naturally limit their movement. Addressing these areas can restore proper locomotion.
My Philosophy: Function over “Cure”
It is important to clarify that chiropractic care is not a cure for conditions like hip dysplasia. Instead, my objective is to maximize overall mechanical function to support a reasonable quality of life. By decreasing pain and improving overall movement, we can often help keep your pet active and happy for longer, potentially delaying the need for more drastic interventions.
Important Information
 Case Selection: Much like my human practice, I do not accept every animal case. I evaluate each dog individually to determine if chiropractic care is the right approach.
 Scheduling: My practice is primarily focused on human patients. Consequently, I reserve specific, dedicated times for animal consultations.
If you believe your dog could benefit from improved mobility and possible increased comfort after already trying the standard veterinary methodology, please reach out as my approach is possibly the right fit for your companion
Golden Bay Chiropractic Works 08 9537 1226
