Watching a pet slow down, hesitate before jumping onto the couch, or struggle to rise after resting can be difficult to watch. Stiffness, joint discomfort, and mobility changes are common as pets age or recover from injury, and many Reno pet owners are searching for gentle, effective ways to help their companions move more comfortably.

Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care offers a gentle, instrument-assisted approach to veterinary chiropractic care through our holistic services, combining conventional veterinary medicine with integrative therapies designed to support comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life for dogs and felines throughout Reno and the surrounding area.

What Is Veterinary Chiropractic Care for Pets?

Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM) is a gentle, instrument-assisted form of veterinary chiropractic care focused on supporting healthy spinal and joint motion. Rather than relying on forceful twisting, high-velocity adjustments, or manual joint manipulation, VOM uses a specialized Activator instrument to deliver precise, controlled impulses to areas of the body with restricted movement.

The nervous system connects the brain, spinal cord, muscles, joints, and internal organs, carrying signals that help the body move and function normally. When injury, aging, inflammation, or muscular compensation limit that movement, a pet may not move as efficiently as they once did. VOM is designed to support more normal motion, encourage comfort, and help the body maintain balance and function.

What Is Animal Neuromyofascial Release (ANMR)?

Animal Neuromyofascial Release (ANMR) uses the same Activator instrument as VOM, but focuses primarily on the muscles, fascia, tendons, and connective tissues that influence movement and comfort. This gentle soft tissue therapy is designed to help reduce restrictions, improve tissue mobility, and support balanced movement, and it is often incorporated alongside orthopedic and rehabilitation treatment plans.

VOM and ANMR are frequently combined because the spine, joints, muscles, and fascia work together as one interconnected system. Addressing both the joints and the surrounding soft tissue allows many pets to experience a more complete approach to comfort and mobility.

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Conditions That May Benefit From Chiropractic Care

Pets experiencing a range of orthopedic or mobility concerns may benefit from VOM, ANMR, or a combination of both therapies. These treatments may be incorporated into individualized care plans for pets experiencing the following:

  • Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
  • Hip dysplasia or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
  • Joint stiffness, reduced flexibility, or muscle tightness
  • Difficulty rising, jumping, or climbing stairs
  • Recovery needs following orthopedic surgery or injury

Every pet is unique, and our veterinarians determine whether VOM, ANMR, or another therapy fits best based on a full examination, medical history, and individualized goals. Arthritis alone affects an estimated 20% of dogs over one year of age, according to a systematic review of risk factors for canine osteoarthritis published through the National Library of Medicine, making early evaluation and gentle intervention especially valuable for aging pets.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Treatment

Each visit begins with a thorough physical examination and movement assessment. Our veterinarians evaluate a pet for stiffness, altered movement, muscle tension, and changes in mobility, then apply VOM, ANMR, or a combination of both based on the exam findings.

Most pets remain relaxed and comfortable throughout treatment. For chronic or longstanding conditions, a series of visits is often recommended initially, followed by individualized maintenance care depending on how a pet responds over time.

Will My Pet’s Joints Be Cracked?

No. VOM and ANMR do not involve forceful twisting, high-velocity spinal manipulation, or intentional cracking of the joints. Instead, these therapies use a handheld Activator instrument to deliver gentle, controlled, targeted impulses that are well tolerated by most patients.

As a pet begins to relax during treatment, a joint may occasionally produce a small popping sound as surrounding muscles loosen and the joint moves through its natural range of motion. This is not the result of a forceful adjustment, and it is not the goal of treatment. Our focus stays on gentle, controlled care that supports comfortable movement while avoiding unnecessary force.

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Integrative Care at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care

VOM and ANMR are often combined with other therapies to build a more complete, individualized treatment plan. Depending on a pet’s needs, care may also include acupuncture, therapeutic laser treatment, prolozone therapy, nutritional support, and conventional medical or surgical care.

Our goal is to combine the best of integrative and conventional veterinary medicine to help pets throughout Reno achieve better comfort, mobility, and quality of life at every stage.

Schedule Chiropractic Care at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care

Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care is an AAHA-accredited hospital, a distinction held by fewer than 15% of veterinary practices nationally, and our Fear Free approach means every visit is designed around a pet’s comfort as much as their health. Set on a three-acre property in Reno, our team blends conventional veterinary medicine with integrative options like VOM and ANMR so pet owners have more ways to support their companion’s comfort and mobility.

If stiffness, mobility changes, or joint discomfort have been affecting a pet’s daily life, our team is ready to talk through whether chiropractic care could help. Contact our office to schedule an evaluation and learn more about how VOM and ANMR fit into a personalized care plan.

Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation FAQ

Veterinary chiropractic differs significantly from human care due to anatomical variations between species. Animals have different bone structures, muscle attachments, and behavioral responses that require specialized techniques. Our veterinarians use modified adjustments designed for animal physiology, employing gentler force and adapted hand positions to safely treat your pet. The training focuses specifically on animal anatomy to ensure safe, effective treatment for each species, maintaining optimal nervous system function and spinal health.

Chiropractic care can sometimes delay or eliminate the need for surgery in certain conditions. For pets with degenerative joint disease, spinal misalignments, or soft tissue injuries, regular chiropractic care may reduce pain and improve function enough to avoid surgical intervention. However, some conditions require surgery, and chiropractic serves as a complementary therapy. Our team will discuss all options with you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your pet’s specific situation and well-being. Schedule a consultation to learn more.

Pets needing chiropractic care often display subtle signs like difficulty rising, reluctance to jump, changes in gait, or altered behavior. You might notice your pet moving their head or neck stiffly, sleeping in unusual positions, showing discomfort when touched, or having limited mobility. Performance animals may experience decreased athletic ability or enthusiasm. Active dogs and working animals particularly benefit from evaluation if you observe any changes in their movement or behavior patterns, as these may indicate underlying musculoskeletal problems or neurological problems.

The number of orthopedic sessions varies based on your pet’s condition, age, and response to treatment. Acute injuries might require fewer sessions, while chronic conditions like arthritis benefit from ongoing care. Some pets show improvement after one or two adjustments, while others need several sessions. Our doctor will discuss a treatment schedule during your initial consultation and adjust the plan as your pet progresses. Many pet owners find that maintenance sessions help sustain long-term benefits and overall well-being. Each appointment builds on previous progress.

Veterinary orthopedic is generally safe when performed by trained professionals, though certain conditions require caution. Our veterinarians conduct thorough evaluations before treatment to ensure safety. Pets with fractures, severe osteoporosis, infections, or certain cancers may not be suitable candidates. However, most animals tolerate orthopedic adjustments well and experience minimal discomfort. We adapt our techniques for each pet’s size, age, and condition to provide gentle, effective treatment that supports their overall health and promotes natural recovery. Schedule an appointment to determine if your pet is a good candidate.

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Mountain View Animal Hospital staff member holding golden retriever in office
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Why Clients Choose Us: Our Team

We provide traditional veterinary medicine combined with a natural approach. This integrative method allows for comprehensive care addressing your pet’s physical, emotional, and lifestyle needs. Your pet is a complex, wonderful creature with unique and interconnected health requirements. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we help your pet live their best life through compassionate, personalized care.

Our practice operates on the principle that quality veterinary medicine involves listening to pet owners, explaining options clearly, and working together to make decisions supporting your animal’s health. We blend traditional veterinary care with holistic treatment options, creating flexibility in how we address health concerns affecting your pet. Learn more about our team and the comprehensive services we offer.

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