Does My Dog Need a Chiropractor? Signs to Watch For

Animal chiropractic is a conservative, hands-on approach focused on joint function, mobility, and movement. Dogs can experience changes in posture, flexibility, gait, or comfort for many reasons, and chiropractic care may be one part of a broader plan to support how they move and function.

At Dallas Animal Chiropractic, care is individualized and based on each pet’s history, movement, posture, joint function, and overall presentation.

There are a few health practitioners that have taken the extra steps to learn about and master animal chiropractic. Animal chiropractic can be performed by both chiropractors and veterinarians. This specialty is an old practice, but many are just now starting to experience the many benefits and life-changes it brings about in their beloved pets.

Dog rescue groups have started to use chiropractors to help nurse their dogs back to life! For example, The American Boston Terrier Rescue in Dallas swears by animal chiropractic! They are an organization that rescues senior and special needs dogs. They have had extremely severe cases such as paralyzed dogs, burned dogs, dogs born with swelling in their brain, and others born with leg deformities. For each of these dogs, they have invested in animal chiropractic and have watched these dogs thrive.

How do I know if my dog needs chiropractic?

You may want to consider an animal chiropractic evaluation if you notice changes in your dog’s mobility, posture, comfort, or activity level.

Common signs can include:

• Limping or changes in gait

• Slipping or falling more often

• Difficulty with stairs or getting into a vehicle

• Difficulty getting up or lying down

• Reluctance to walk, run, jump, or play

• Sensitivity through the back or neck

• Favoring one side

• Decreased interest in normal activities

• Age-related stiffness or reduced mobility

Sudden pain, weakness, paralysis, neurologic changes, or major changes in function should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

What is an animal chiropractic visit like?

An animal chiropractic visit typically begins with a hands-on assessment of movement, posture, joint function, and musculoskeletal findings. Based on the assessment, gentle chiropractic adjustments may be performed when appropriate.

At Dallas Animal Chiropractic, cold laser therapy may also be used when appropriate to support comfort and recovery.

If findings suggest that veterinary evaluation, imaging, diagnosis, or medical treatment may be needed, the pet is referred back to their veterinarian.

Will An Adjustment Hurt My Dog?

Animal chiropractic adjustments are typically gentle and targeted. Some areas may be tender if a pet is already uncomfortable, but treatment is intended to be controlled and appropriate for the individual patient.

How Much Does Animal Chiropractic Cost?

The cost of animal chiropractic care varies by provider and by the type of visit. At Dallas Animal Chiropractic, new patient visits include an initial assessment and treatment, while follow-up visits are shorter and focused on reassessment and ongoing care.

For current pricing and appointment information, visit our New Patient page.

How do I find an animal chiropractor in my area?

When choosing an animal chiropractor, look for a practitioner with specific training and certification in animal chiropractic and experience working with the type of animal you are seeking care for.

It is also important to choose a provider who works appropriately with veterinarians and understands when a pet should be referred for medical evaluation.

Dallas Animal Chiropractic provides chiropractic care for dogs and cats in Carrollton and the surrounding Dallas–Fort Worth area.

Getting Started at Dallas Animal Chiropractic

In Texas, a veterinarian-signed chiropractic referral is required before a new patient can be scheduled.

Once the referral is complete, you can review our New Patient information and contact us to schedule your pet’s first visit.

• Andie Ibarra, D.C., C.A.C., Dallas Animal Chiropractic