- How do I know if my pet has a subluxation?
- What can I expect during my first visit?
- How do chiropractic adjustments correct subluxations?
- My pet may be too aggressive to come in to your office – a vet visit is always traumatic. What can I do?
- Do you treat other animals?
- What conditions respond to animal chiropractic?
- Will this conflict with my vet’s advice?
- How long is each treatment and how many will my pet need?
- Are your fees the same as for human chiropractic?
- Do you make house calls?
- Do you sell nutritional supplements for animals, like glucosamine? And specialty foods?
- Who sets the standards of Animal Chiropractic Practice?
1. How do I know if my pet has a subluxation?
It’s important to know that subluxations are painless initially (just as a tooth cavity starts out). Vets, pets and owners don’t know they’re there, only a professional trained to locate vertebral subluxations can locate them in the early stages.
Advanced subluxations can show up on x-rays later as osteoarthritis, or degenerated discs and joints. It is important to note that human research has shown that chiropractic care can slow down or stop further advancement of degenerative arthritis in the spine.
An owner may see an advancing case reveal itself, weeks, months or years later in any number of ways, such as as a roach back (curved top line), tender or flinching back or flank, altered head/tail positions, gait abnormality i.e. foot swings forward in an arc like motion. Perhaps the dog no longer likes certain activities like grooming, less stretching, avoids stairs or jumping up, avoids human contact, overall energy loss, or is not playful anymore. If the owner has recognized any of these indicators, it usually means it is the “tip of the iceberg” and a larger problem (subluxation) is looming underneath.
2. What can I expect during my first visit?
The Manitoba Bylaws state that all animals receving holistic care must be supervised by their veterinarian first, when beginning care at Waverley Chiropractic. Dr. Bailey works with many other health care providers. In fact, the majority of animals seen by Dr. Bailey are referred to by veterinarians.
Any x-rays taken or other information should be brought to our office on the pets’ first visit. You will be asked to complete some paperwork prior to your pets’ examination. The adjustments themselves are gentle, delivered by an instrument called an “Integrator” or by hand. Each adjustment takes approximately 10 minutes. Please keep your pet on a leash and under control at all times. We ask that all animals have a chance to go to the bathroom prior to each visit.
3. How do chiropractic adjustments correct subluxations?
An adjustment is a short controlled thrust onto the vertebra in a very specific direction that will restore movement to the fixated joint. Chiropractic is very specific, and adjustments are made directly on the vertebra with a spring-loaded device called an Integrator, or by hand. Although Dr. Bailey pays particular attention to the spine, he may also adjust the legs, jaw, or skull.
After the adjustment, there is a healing time while the animal processes the adustment. . Dr. Bailey will not “cure” anything. He will restore the normal position of the joint, which removes any nerve interference and bring back motion and health to the body. The animal will do the healing, all by itself from the inside.
4. My pet may be too aggressive to come in to your office – a vet visit is always traumatic. What can I do?
Fear and aggression may be caused by the discomfort and pain your pet is living with. We take all possible precautions and the time, to ensure that your pet has a positive experience at our office. Many animals become their former loving selves after treatment as for the first time the actual cause of their suffering is being addressed. Ensure that your pet is well fed and rested prior to their appointment. Walk them if they are able. Consider using a head halter or bringing a muzzle.
5. Do you treat other animals?
Yes. Please call for more specific advice on how we may help your cat, guinea pig, horse ……. keep in mind that we work closely with your vet's supervision.
6. What conditions respond to animal chiropractic?
The spine acts as the framework for the body – the spinal column supports almost all muscles and the spinal cord carries nerves to every organ. Every system in the body – digestive, nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine, excretory, immune, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, integumentary and skeletal – is affected by the health of the spine. Conditions that respond to animal chiropractic include hernia, limping, osteoarthritis, ear infections, incontinence, and fertility issues.
7. Will this conflict with my vet’s advice?
No! Chiropractic care is in essence complimentary care. Treatment is a strong foundation for any and all other forms of health care.
8. How long is each treatment and how many will my pet need?
We see animals every Tuesday from 3 to 6 pm. Each adjustment takes approximately 10 minutes. There is a period of healing after each treatment and you will notice a change in your pet’s energy level – they may be tired, or more spry, depending on their condition. Some conditions resolve after one or two treatments, others require regular maintenance to ensure maximum function. Dr Bailey will discuss the course of treatment that is specific to your pet.
9. Are your fees the same as for human chiropractic?
No, our fee schedule reflects the fact that animals are different than our human patients. Our fees are $25 for the initial assessment with Dr. Bailey and $50 for adjustments.
10. Do you make house calls?
No. Our office is welcoming and well equipped, offering an ideal setting for your initial consultation and subsequent treatments.
11. Do you sell nutritional supplements for animals, like glucosamine? And specialty foods?
No. Only your veterinarian is allowed to administer nutritional advice. Any questions regarding supplements, medications or nutrition should be discussed with your vet.
12. Who sets the standards of Animal Chiropractic Practice?
The standards followed at Waverley Chiropractic Centre – Canine Chiropractic Division are set by the American Veterinarian Chiropractic Association. The AVCA accredits all courses and certifications held by Dr. Bailey.
