My black lab, bo, is 9 years old. He was arthritis in his back hips. He has been on pain meds for some time (remdal). This seems to help some what until this past weekend. We have scheduled an appointment with our vet, for wednesday, to have x-rays. I have heard that chiropractic care is available for dogs but know little to nothing about this form of treatment for animals.
#1 by olderman on August 11th, 2010
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I worked on me!
#2 by Ryan on August 11th, 2010
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No they dont.
Its just one of those quick ways to make money people do. Its more of a “peace at mind” kind of service. It wont work for your dog, but after you take your dog there you will start to “notice improvements” that have been there the entire time, you just didn’t look for them. When you get back you will start looking for things, which were there in the first place.
#3 by Blessed on August 11th, 2010
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Can a chiropractor help people with arthritis? I do not know. If they can, how much does it help them?
If not, why try?
Call a chiropractor and ask about if it helps people with arthritis.
#4 by walking lady RIP Tom on August 11th, 2010
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Yes, it absolutely does work! All 3 of my greyhounds have had chiro done several times for various issues. However, for a dog with arthritis, I don’t think that chiro will help – I think acupuncture is what your lab needs.
My greys have also had acupuncture done for different problems from those that needed chiro and the acupuncture is amazing to keep them pain free. My oldest always fell asleep on the vet’s couch during treatments – that’s how relaxing they were. They’re also pretty inexpensive, especially considering the benefits to your dog.
#5 by Bonzie12 on August 11th, 2010
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My 9 year old german shepherd also had severe arthritis in both of her rear hips and was also on remadyl but eventaully that didn’t work any more and she was put on something stronger, Metacam. this also worked for about a year but it just eventually got worse and nothing worked any more. As far as the chiropractic care. I can’t see that there would be any harm in trying it especially if you have the money.
#6 by tiptoptraining on August 11th, 2010
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Chiropractic can be a great treatment option for many dogs. Of course, the vet chiropractor needs to be good- as in most things, there is variability within the field, and the results will depend on how good your practitioner is. I go to a wonderful vet chiropractor who specializes in sports medicine and rehab for routine maintenance. When my oldest dog was still alive, she was essential in improving his quality of life in the last year or so, and also incorporated acupuncture treatments- he would walk better for 10-14 days after each treatment, moved more easily. She diagnosed my current oldest dog with wrist injury, and developed a treatment plan that incorporated exercises, nutrition supplements, medication, and splinting, and he has improved markedly. I know many dogs whose lives have been improved because of a good vet chiropractor.
#7 by Duece222 on August 11th, 2010
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The one thing to keep in mind about getting chiropractic work done on your dog is that its a process that requires multiple visits. The first visit may temporarily alleviate pain, but the muscles are so used to being in the old position that they will push and pull their way back over a short time. Your dog wont be “fixed” in one session. You have to ask yourself if the time and money is worth it for a nine year old dog. I personally wouldnt keep the dog on the pain meds either, cuase they just block the pain and leave him more prone to further injury. I think your dog should be able to feel any pains so he can protect himself. Good luck with whatever you decide.
#8 by WyrDachsie on August 11th, 2010
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It does help. I started taking my beagle mix to the k9 chiropractor not long after she tore her ACL. She was an obedience and agility dog and I swear it kept her going.
Since then, it’s just a part of my dogs maintenance. I take my current dogs for monthly “tune-ups”. I own dachshunds who do agility and obedience.
Ideally, you want a someone who is a licensed veterinarian and a licensed chiorpratic practioner.
Visit: http://www.animalchiropratic.org
http://wwwavcadoctors.com
The person I use, is not only a vet, but also does acupuncture besides chiropratic treatment.
If possible, I would also suggest, getting your dog swimming frequently.
#9 by Rob on August 11th, 2010
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Good question. I asked my chiropractor Tedd Koren and he said that Chiropractic care can be valuable for dogs (as well as cats and horse and other vertebrates). Many chiropractors work on animals (both large and small) as well as humans. In fact I know DCs (Doctors of Chiropractic) who have some days for humans, some for animals in their clinics. Others specialize in racehorses – the owners know that shaving a few seconds off a race can bring in millions. But let’s get back to your dog. Yes, bring him in for care. As with humans chiropractic has saved many animals from drugs and surgery and restored them to healthier, happier, pain free lives.
Every state has different laws re chiropractic for animals. In some states veterinary organizations don’t want chiropractors caring for animals. In other states it’s perfectly ok. In others a chiropractor can work on pets and other animals but a vet must be present. It’s a turf war unfortunately. Check with local DCs in your area and ask about care for your pet.