Equine Wellness Management

Acupuncture involves the placement of thin, sterile, stainless steel needles at specific points on the body where nerve bundles penetrate fascia, in close proximity to major blood vessels that are surrounded by small nerve bundles, and where nerves enter or exit muscles. Insertion of acupuncture needles (dry needling) results in a local and systemic response by the nerves in the region. Local effects cause release of anti-inflammatory substances, improve circulation, and activate the immune system and tissue repair.

Acupuncture is performed by a veterinarian certified in veterinary acupuncture. Acupuncture is used to treat acute and chronic musculoskeletal injury, improve the general well being of athletic horses, and provide additional systemic support for horses suffering from a broad range of medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal, kidney, liver, or lung disease.

Dr. Maureen Kelleher of San Dieguito Equine Group is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist available for acupuncture appointments.

Animal chiropractic focuses on maintaining and restoring the health of your animal's nervous system through identifying vertebral subluxation complexes in the spinal column and extremities and performing the appropriate adjustments. Your horse will be examined in static and dynamic motion. Hands are used as the tool to assess the amount of motion/restriction in joints, spasm of muscles, flexibility, asymmetry, etc. 

When a joint is found to have decreased motion, a specific, low amplitude, high velocity thrust (ie: adjustment) is performed. This in return restores appropriate communication between nerves in the nervous system. Animal chiropractic may be used as an integrative treatment for many musculoskeletal conditions, such as back, sacroiliac and neck pain. Depending on your horse's history and examination, a period of rest may be recommended post treatment. A plan for future examinations will be discussed at the appointment if needed. Some equine athletes are maintained on a monthly schedule while others may be examined once to twice yearly. 

Dr. Rebecca James performs chiropractic at San Dieguito Equine Group. She completed training for Animal Chiropractic at Options for Animals and was certified in Animal Chiropractic by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA).