How Animal Chiropractic Can Help Your Aging Pet Stay Comfortable and Active
As our pets get older, it's common to see them slow down. They might have trouble jumping onto the couch, hesitate at the stairs, or seem stiff after naps. While some of this is a natural part of aging, there are ways to help them feel more comfortable and maintain their quality of life—and animal chiropractic care is one of them.
Animal chiropractic is a growing field of complementary care that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine and joints. Much like chiropractic treatment in humans, it involves gentle, manual adjustments that help realign the body, improve nerve function, and relieve pain. When applied to aging pets, chiropractic care can provide a range of benefits that improve mobility and overall well-being.
Why Older Pets Benefit From Chiropractic Care
As pets age, they often develop conditions like arthritis, joint degeneration, or spinal misalignments. These issues can lead to discomfort, limited range of motion, and changes in posture or gait. Over time, this can create a cycle where pain limits activity, and inactivity leads to muscle atrophy and stiffness, further worsening the problem.
Chiropractic adjustments help by restoring alignment and mobility to the spine and joints. When the spine is properly aligned, the nervous system functions more efficiently, which is essential for the body's healing processes. For senior pets, this can mean:
- Improved mobility and flexibility
Pets who receive chiropractic care often show better movement, more ease getting up and down, and greater willingness to play or go for walks.
- Pain relief without medications
Chiropractic adjustments can reduce inflammation and nerve pressure, easing pain without relying solely on pharmaceuticals, which can have side effects—especially in older animals with kidney or liver concerns.
- Better posture and balance
Realigning the spine helps distribute weight more evenly, reducing strain on overcompensating muscles or joints. This can be especially helpful for pets who have started favoring one leg or side.
- Support for degenerative conditions
While chiropractic care can't reverse arthritis or other degenerative diseases, it can slow their progression and help manage the discomfort associated with them.
What to Expect from an Animal Chiropractor
As a licensed animal chiropractor at Holland Landing Health Centre (an East Gwillimbury and Newmarket wellness center) —Dr. Steph received additional training after chiropractic school to learn how to apply those skill to animals. She has been licensed through the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Centre since 2018. Dr. Steph will start with a full assessment of your pet’s spine, joints, and movement. Treatments are typically gentle and tailored to your pet’s specific condition and tolerance. Many pets find the process relaxing and even enjoyable.
Sessions may be recommended weekly at first, then taper off as your pet’s condition stabilizes. Results can often be seen within just a few visits, with improvements in mobility, mood, and energy levels.
A Holistic Part of Senior Pet Care
Chiropractic care is not a cure-all, but it’s a valuable tool in a holistic approach to senior pet care. Combined with proper nutrition, regular gentle exercise, and other supportive therapies like massage or acupuncture, it can greatly enhance your aging pet's comfort and quality of life.
If your furry friend is slowing down with age, talk to your veterinarian about whether animal chiropractic might be a good addition to their care plan.
Ready to Get Started?
Holland Landing Health Centre is (an East Gwillimbury and Newmarket wellness center) proudly serving East Gwillimbury and surrounding communities, including Sharon, Queensville, Keswick, Bradford and Newmarket.
