Nine-year old Sheltie Abby began limping a few months ago, and an x-ray revealed some bone chips. I thought she’d improved, though recently holding her feet, even gently seemed to be painful for her. Last week, during agility class, I set her jumps for only 8 inches, and even with that, her instructor saw she was moving very slowly and favoring that injured foot. I didn’t run her any more that class. 

Then Zoey, my five-year old Sheltie, took a weird tumble during the same class. She was between jumps, and it seemed like her back legs just gave out from under her. She did not move well after that, so that was her last run as well. 

It’s time, I thought, for Abby and Zoey to try the benefits of chiropractic.

I already knew how to find my dog a chiropractor. My regular veterinary office specializes in holistic pet health, offering both chiropractic and acupuncture for dogs. I set up an appointment last week, and took the two into the chiropractic office yesterday. 

Each dog was pretty nervous when her chiropractor treatment began, and each quickly relaxed. I think for the most part, they enjoyed the treatments, though some foot and spinal manipulations seemed to be a little uncomfortable for Abby. 

Zoey had a stiff jaw and neck, which the vet chiropractor said may cause vertigo. That made me wonder because after a stellar start to the disc season, Zoey seemed to have problems catching discs the last couple of Frisbee dog competitions. Overall though, Zoey is cleared to resume her normal activities after a few days of rest. 

Abby’s situation is more serious. Another look at her x-ray, and it’s now thought she has serious arthritis. She will be trying some canine pet relief in the form of Zeel’s, which is a holistic pet health product that is believed to be safe and effective. 

We’ll also try rebuilding her joints by using some glucosamine especially for dogs. She’s already on fish oil supplement, as that is a one of the holistic supplements for dogs that can alleviate inflammation. 

Abby has another appointment next week. I hope she soon feels the advantages of chiropractic treatment and her holistic dog supplements. She loves agility, and neither of us can wait to get back to class.