Doctors, worldwide, certified in animal chiropractic by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association

HORSES, DOGS, CATS, CATTLE, PIGS, SHEEP, GOATS, BIRDS, REPTILES AND MORE BENEFIT FROM CHIROPRACTIC

AVCA - RECOGNIZED WORLD-WIDE AS THE LEADER IN ANIMAL CHIROPRACTIC

Licensed doctors of chiropractic and of veterinary medicine, worldwide,

certified in animal chiropractic by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

Why an AVCA Certified Doctor

Certification is a voluntary process by which a non-government entity grants a time-limited recognition and use of a credential to an individual after verifying that he/she has met predetermined and standardized criteria. Certification is distinct from licensure in that it is voluntary and requires recertification to maintain the credential.
Earning certification from the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association represents a significant professional achievement. AVCA Certification makes an important statement about professional competence that is recognized by the profession, the public and some regulatory bodies.
AVCA is the primary national credential for this field in North America
Certification was developed based upon input and oversight from both professions
Over 1000 animal chiropractic professionals have been certified since 1989
AVCA has embarked upon a program of continuous improvement for the certification program
AVCA Certification establishes and promotes professional accountability and visibility
AVCA Certification increases referrals by identifying those professionals who have met specific standards of knowledge and experience
Certification encourages continued professional growth and development
For more information, visit the AVCA

How Chiropractic Works

The bones of the spine and joints are maintained in a specific alignment.
The nerves which surround each joint and vertebral articulation are in constant communication with the central nervous system, brain and all organs.
When even a subtle change in the alignment occurs, it is called a subluxation.
Subluxations affect the nervous system, local muscles, joints and even distant organs, glands and body functions.

	Will an Adjustment Hurt?
	Most animals accept both the exam and adjustment without signs of pain. When a painful area is found, the practitioner will use the gentlest techniques to reduce pain before delivering an adjustment. In cases of acute or extreme pain, the doctor will often delay the complete adjustment until your companion can be relaxed.

What Can I Expect After an Adjustment?

Many animals will show immediate improvement.
Sometimes there is a 24-48 hour period of tiredness.
Some animals require a few sessions to resolve acute pain.
Often, with chronic health problems, the doctor will want to see your animal several times to maintain and re-establish normal function of the joints and nervous system.


Be certain to share all the information with the doctor about your pet’s care from all health care providers, including diet, supplements and medications. Be certain you understand post-adjustment exercise and home therapy recommendations.

Pay attention to saddle fit, shoeing, exercise, collar, harness and conditioning recommendations.

Learn more about a doctors' education and certification. Visit the AVCA

Posted August 10, 2000. Updated regularly.