animal chiropractic treatment in Markham

Quick guide: animal chiropractic

Condition treated:

Joint dysfunction affecting the spine, limbs, or jaw in animals.

Common signs your pet may need chiropractic care:

– limping or uneven gait

– stiffness or difficulty getting up

– reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs

– behavioural changes or irritability

– reduced activity or energy levels

– difficulty turning the head or bending the back

– weakness or coordination issues

Treatment approach:

– thorough musculoskeletal assessment

– posture and gait analysis

– gentle chiropractic adjustments

– soft tissue therapy when needed

Goal of treatment:

– reduce pain and inflammation

– restore joint motion

– improve nerve function

– enhance mobility and comfort

– support long-term health and performance

Animal chiropractic care for dogs, cats, and bunnies in Markham

Pets rely on healthy joints, muscles, and nerves to move comfortably and enjoy daily activities such as running, jumping, climbing, and playing. When the musculoskeletal system is not functioning properly, animals may develop pain, stiffness, or changes in movement and behaviour.

Animal chiropractic is a gentle, hands-on treatment that helps restore normal joint motion and improve nervous system function, supporting your pet’s natural ability to heal and move comfortably.

At in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic in Markham, Dr. Kirsten Thomas provides specialized chiropractic care for dogs, cats, and rabbits from across Markham, York and Durham Regions and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

As the first and only Certified Animal Chiropractor practicing in Markham, Dr. Thomas is dedicated to improving the health, comfort, and mobility of pets through safe and effective chiropractic treatment.

What is animal chiropractic?

Animal chiropractic is a specialized form of manual therapy that focuses on restoring proper movement and function to joints in the spine and extremities.

When joints become restricted, the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves may be affected. These restrictions can interfere with normal movement and contribute to pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility.

Chiropractic adjustments use quick, precise, and gentle movements to restore joint motion and support healthy nervous system communication.

While animal chiropractic is not a replacement for veterinary care, it serves as a complementary treatment that can enhance the quality of life for pets dealing with pain, stiffness, or injuries.

Benefits of animal chiropractic treatment

Animal chiropractic can provide many benefits for pets, including:

Pain relief

Reduces discomfort caused by joint dysfunction, inflammation, or injury.

Improved mobility

Restores normal range of motion in the spine and limbs.

Improved joint function

Promotes healthy mobility and reduces stiffness.

Better posture and biomechanics

Helps joints and muscles function efficiently.

Injury prevention

Reduces compensatory movement patterns that may lead to further problems.

Faster recovery

Supports healing after injuries, surgeries, or musculoskeletal strain.

Improved performance

Beneficial for agility dogs, working dogs, and athletic animals.

Enhanced quality of life

Helps aging or injured pets remain comfortable and active.

How animal chiropractic works

Joint restrictions, sometimes referred to as vertebral subluxations, occur when the joints in your pet’s spine or extremities lose their normal range of motion. These restrictions can result in:

– inflammation

– muscle tension

– pain or discomfort

– joint stiffness

– nervous system irritation

– altered movement patterns

Over time, these problems may cause other areas of the body to compensate, increasing the risk of further injury.

Comprehensive assessment

Dr. Thomas performs a detailed examination to identify joint dysfunction and movement abnormalities.

The assessment may include:

Case history review

Understanding your pet’s health history, lifestyle, and symptoms.

Posture and gait analysis

Observing how your pet stands, walks, runs, and moves.

Muscle and joint palpation

Checking for areas of stiffness, tenderness, or restricted motion in the spine, limbs, and jaw.

If an adjustment is needed, Dr. Thomas uses a quick, precise, and gentle thrust to restore joint motion and stimulate the nervous system, supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

Why do pets need animal chiropractic treatment?

Animals can develop joint dysfunction for many reasons.

Common causes include:

– slips, falls, or traumatic injuries

– repetitive strain from running, jumping, climbing or agility training

– leash pulling or poorly fitted harnesses and collars

– sudden directional changes during play or training

– chronic postural strain

– degenerative joint conditions associated with aging

– recovery from surgery

– crating, prolonged confinement or reduced activity

– in-utero constraints or birth-related issues

Even young animals such as puppies and kittens can benefit from chiropractic care. 

Early assessment can help prevent long-term problems caused by cramped quarters in-utero or challenges during delivery, preventing long-term complications.

Signs your pet may benefit from animal chiropractic treatment

Pets often show subtle signs when they are uncomfortable.

Watch for:

– pain or changes in facial expression

– limping or favouring a limb

– stiffness or reduced flexibility

– shortened stride or changes in gait

– difficulty jumping onto furniture or climbing stairs

– trouble getting up or lying down

– decreased activity or exercise tolerance

– changes in behaviour, mood, energy levels or sleep

– sensitivity when touched

– reluctance to be picked up or harnessed

– muscle tightness, weakness or atrophy

– abnormal tail carriage or posture

– coordination issues or stumbling

– jaw discomfort or difficulty chewing

– excessive licking or grooming of certain areas

– persistent scratching

– changes in bathroom habits, incontinence or posture

If you notice these signs, a chiropractic evaluation may help determine whether joint dysfunction is contributing to your pet’s discomfort.

Conditions that may benefit from animal chiropractic

Animal chiropractic may help pets experiencing a variety of musculoskeletal problems, including:

– spinal joint dysfunction

– neck and back pain

– intervertebral disc irritation

– hip or pelvic imbalance

– reduced mobility or stiffness in aging pets

– muscle strain or tension

– recovery from sprains or injuries

– gait abnormalities

– arthritis and degenerative joint changes

– subluxating patellas

Chiropractic care is commonly used alongside veterinary treatment for rehabilitation, pain management, and mobility improvement.

Specialized animal chiropractic training 

Animal chiropractic requires extensive specialized education beyond standard chiropractic training.

Licensed chiropractors and veterinarians providing animal chiropractic care must complete advanced training programs approved by organizations such as the:

– College of Animal Chiropractors (CoAC)

– American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA)

Dr. Kirsten Thomas completed her animal chiropractic certification in 2010 at the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Centre and has continued to pursue advanced education, including:

– Advanced Techniques Course for Canines (2013)

– Soft Tissue Therapies for Canines (2022)

About Dr. Kirsten Thomas | Certified Animal Chiropractor in Markham

Dr. Kirsten Thomas grew up on a farm outside of London, Ontario, where she witnessed firsthand the incredible benefits of animal chiropractic care on her family’s horses, dogs, and cats. These early experiences sparked her passion for animal care and inspired her to become a Certified Animal Chiropractor. 

Today, she provides compassionate and experienced chiropractic care for pets at in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic in Markham, helping animals move comfortably and live healthier lives.

Enhancing your pet’s well-being with animal chiropractic treatment

Animal chiropractic is not only about addressing existing issues but also about preventing potential problems. Regular check-ups can help pets maintain optimal health, especially as they age or experience changes in activity levels.

Animal chiropractic care in Markham and the GTA

At Dr. Thomas’s Markham office, in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic, pets receive compassionate, expert care in a welcoming environment. Whether your pet is recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain or mobility problems, or simply in need of a wellness check-up, chiropractic treatment can help them live their happiest, healthiest lives.

Regular chiropractic checkups can help maintain healthy joint motion and support your pet’s long-term well-being.

Dr. Thomas welcomes pets from across the Greater Toronto Area, including:

• Markham
• Cornell
• Richmond Hill
• Stouffville
• North York
• Scarborough
• York & Durham Regions

FAQs about animal chiropractic

Is animal chiropractic safe?

Yes. When performed by a trained and certified practitioner, animal chiropractic is considered safe and gentle. Adjustments are carefully adapted to the size, species, and condition of the animal.

Does chiropractic hurt animals?

Chiropractic adjustments are typically quick and gentle. Most pets tolerate treatment very well and many appear relaxed or more comfortable afterward.

How many treatments does my pet need?

The number of treatments depends on the condition being treated, your pet’s age, activity level, and overall health. Some pets improve quickly, while chronic conditions may require ongoing care.

Can puppies and kittens receive chiropractic care?

Yes. Young animals can benefit from chiropractic assessments, particularly if they show signs of stiffness, abnormal movement, or discomfort.

Do I need a veterinary referral?

Veterinary involvement is recommended for certain conditions or if required by your pet insurance. If needed, Dr. Thomas will advise you to consult with your veterinarian to ensure the most appropriate care for your pet.

Book an animal chiropractic appointment in Markham

If your pet is experiencing mobility issues, discomfort, or changes in behaviour, animal chiropractic care may help.

With a deep understanding of the connection between musculoskeletal health and overall well-being in animals, Dr. Kirsten Thomas has dedicated her career to providing animal chiropractic care in Markham that enhances the quality of life for pets and performance animals alike.

With years of specialized training and a deep commitment to animal wellness, Dr. Thomas is here to help your furry friends thrive! 

To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic today.

Animal Chiropractic Treatment Fees

Initial Visit – Small Animal – 30 minutes

Includes a full, detailed chiropractic assessment, report of findings and treatment (time permitting).
$100     (canine or feline)

Subsequent Visit – Small Animal – 10 minutes

May include chiropractic and soft tissue therapy.
$  60     (canine)
$  50     (feline)