Certified canine chiropractic care.
Jordan Bay is now one of the few practices in Maine offering CVMMP-certified veterinary chiropractic, a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment for dogs that restores proper joint motion, relieves pain, and improves whole-body function.
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Restoring motion. Relieving pain. Improving quality of life.
Canine chiropractic care, also called veterinary spinal manipulation, focuses on the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and overall health. When joints are restricted or out of proper alignment, they can impair nerve function, cause pain, and reduce mobility. Chiropractic adjustments restore proper joint motion to address these issues at the source.
Dr. Doucette holds the CVMMP certification (Certified Veterinary Medical Manipulation Practitioner), a rigorous postgraduate qualification requiring advanced training in veterinary spinal anatomy, biomechanics, and hands-on manipulation technique. This is not a general wellness add-on. It is a clinical specialty.
Chiropractic care is safe, non-invasive, and drug-free. It integrates naturally with conventional veterinary care, acupuncture, and cold laser therapy for a comprehensive, individualized care plan.
Benefits of canine chiropractic care
- Restores proper joint motion and mobility
- Enhances nervous system function
- Provides lasting pain relief without medication
- Boosts athletic performance and endurance
- Aids recovery from injury and surgery
- Prevents recurring musculoskeletal issues
- Increases energy levels and range of motion
- Improves overall quality of life
Dr. Doucette's CVMMP certification is a postgraduate qualification requiring advanced training in veterinary spinal anatomy and chiropractic technique, not a weekend course. It is one of the most rigorous certifications available in veterinary integrative medicine.
Optimizing performance, preventing injury, extending careers.
Dr. Doucette has a special interest in the canine athlete, the working dog, the agility competitor, the hunting dog, the dock diver. Her own dogs have shaped her approach to evaluating performance and using integrative medicine to help dogs not just feel better, but perform at their best.
Regular chiropractic care helps maintain proper spinal alignment and joint mobility in dogs who demand a lot of their bodies. It reduces the risk of injury, speeds recovery when injuries do occur, and helps performance dogs sustain longer, healthier working careers.
Agility dogs
Maintain flexible, properly aligned spines for tight turns and jumping demands.
Hunting and sporting dogs
Prevent repetitive-stress injuries and maintain peak physical conditioning.
Working dogs
Support musculoskeletal health in dogs who use their bodies for jobs every day.
Dock diving / field trial dogs
Optimize explosive performance and manage the physical demands of competition.
Chiropractic care is beneficial for many dogs, not just those in pain.
Dogs with back or neck pain
Disc issues, stiffness, reluctance to move or climb stairs.
Post-surgical recovery
Supporting healing and restoring mobility after orthopedic procedures.
Athletic and working dogs
Performance maintenance, injury prevention, and recovery.
Senior dogs
Age-related stiffness and joint degeneration respond well to regular care.
Dogs with lameness
Unexplained gait changes or favoring a limb.
Preventive wellness
Regular adjustments maintain alignment before issues develop.
Your dog's first chiropractic appointment.
The initial evaluation includes a full physical and neurological exam, gait analysis, and hands-on assessment of the spine and joints. Dr. Doucette identifies areas of restriction and discusses a care plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.
Most dogs tolerate treatment comfortably, and many show noticeable improvement after the first session. Dr. Doucette will walk you through what to expect at every stage.
Full evaluation
Physical exam, gait analysis, and hands-on spinal assessment.
Gentle adjustment
Precise, controlled adjustments to restore proper joint motion. Safe, non-invasive, drug-free.
Care plan
Tailored plan based on your dog's condition, from a single session to ongoing care.
Follow-up
Progress is tracked and the plan is adjusted as your dog responds.
Common questions about canine chiropractic care
What is CVMMP certification in veterinary chiropractic?
CVMMP stands for Certified Veterinary Medical Manipulation Practitioner. It is a postgraduate certification requiring advanced training in veterinary spinal anatomy, biomechanics, neurophysiology, and hands-on manipulation technique. Dr. Doucette holds this certification, one of the most rigorous available in veterinary integrative medicine. It is not a weekend course.
How does canine chiropractic care work?
Canine chiropractic care, also called veterinary spinal manipulation, involves applying precise, controlled force to restricted spinal and peripheral joints to restore proper motion. When joints are restricted or misaligned, they can impair nerve function, cause pain, and reduce mobility. Chiropractic adjustments address these restrictions at their source, improving nerve communication and reducing pain without medication.
Is canine chiropractic care safe?
Yes. Canine chiropractic care performed by a CVMMP-certified veterinarian is safe, non-invasive, and drug-free. Dr. Doucette uses precise, gentle techniques appropriate for each dog's size and condition. She conducts a full physical and neurological evaluation before any adjustment to confirm that chiropractic care is appropriate and to identify any contraindications.
What are the signs my dog might benefit from chiropractic care?
Signs that may indicate your dog would benefit from chiropractic evaluation include stiffness or difficulty rising, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, changes in gait, sensitivity when touched along the back or neck, reduced performance in athletic or working dogs, and unexplained lameness. Chiropractic care is also used preventively for dogs with physically demanding lifestyles.
How many chiropractic sessions does my dog need?
The number of sessions depends on the condition and how your dog responds. Many dogs show improvement within 3 to 5 sessions. Acute conditions may resolve quickly, while chronic issues or performance maintenance typically benefit from ongoing care every 4 to 8 weeks. Dr. Doucette will discuss a care plan specific to your dog after the initial evaluation.
Can my cat receive chiropractic care?
Yes. While canine chiropractic is more common, cats can also benefit from veterinary spinal manipulation. Cats with arthritis, disc disease, or reduced mobility may be good candidates. Dr. Doucette will assess your cat individually to determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate and what technique approach suits them.
Your pet deserves care that feels personal. We're ready when you are.
Call us to schedule an appointment or ask a question. We're here Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, and Wednesday mornings.
1242 Roosevelt Trail, Raymond, ME · Mon/Tue/Thu 8-5:30 · Wed 8-4 · Fri-Sun Closed