How do I know when my dog needs an adjustment?

Improper or reduced movement within a joint can cause a variety of symptoms from very mild to very severe. The most common of which is PAIN. Dogs in pain will compensate in gait or posture and often refuse to perform certain tasks. The following is a list of symptoms that may indicate pain:

• “Puppy” or “Sloppy” sitting (rear legs off to one side).
• Difficulty walking, lying down or getting up
• Limping or dragging a limb
• Discomfort when putting on or taking off collars and harnesses.
• Abnormal posture when standing.
• Sensitivity to touch; your animal flinches suddenly, or acts aggressively when you are touching certain parts of their body
• May move away from being petted ie dipping head or hollowing back.
• Wringing or tucking tail.
• Change in behavior patterns; fear biting, mood changes.
• Resistance or refusal to perform tasks that are normally easy to perform
• Facial expression of apprehension or pain.
• Decrease in overall energy level
• Showing signs of high stress

Lack of motion within joints can also cause change in muscle coordination and flexibility which may lead to:

• Lack of coordination in gaits.
• Pacing.
• “Lameness” that seems to move from limb to limb.
• Muscle stiffness and/or spasms
• Stiffness in side movement of the body or neck.
• Muscle atrophy or shrinking.
• Shortened stride in one or two limbs.
• Decreased extension in the front or rear.
• Side winding or crabbing.
• Stumbling on dog walk.
• Partial weakness or paralysis and/or other neurological signs and symptoms such as seizures

Other reasons for chiropractic care for my dog:

• Maintenance of joint and spinal health
• 6 months or longer without a chiropractic evaluation
• Entered the geriatric or senior phase of life
• Injuries (acute or chronic) from slips, falls, and accidents,
• Jaw or TMJ problems, difficulty chewing
• Post-surgical care
• Experienced any reoccurring conditions such as: vomiting, respiratory or urinary infections, diarrhea or constipation