The Importance of Neurology in Your Pet - Patricia Holl Animal Chiropractor in Billings Montana Horse Chiropractor Dog Chiropractor

Hi all! It's been awhile, but I've been busy, ensconced in continuing education in none other than...Neurology! Yes, Neurology. Neurology is at the root of all health conditions, and this extends to our 4-legged friends. As animal chiropractors, we understand the importance of having a healthy functioning nervous system. We also understand that animals act instinctively for survival, so it's not uncommon for a horse or dog with neurological problems to present with multiple behavioral, cognitive and gait abnormalities. Subtle neurologic problems may be masked by musculoskeletal challenges and can often present as some form of lameness. For example, a quadriceps injury in your dog can adversely affect the femoral nerve, resulting in collapse of the stifle. As compensation is often unavailable, this can result in the dog being unable to bear weight in the associated limb. An injury to the radial nerve can manifest in different ways. The radial nerve innervates the extensor muscles of the elbow, carpus and digits, as well as the skin of the dorsal surface of the forearm and paw. A proximal injury to the triceps muscle may result in difficulty bearing weight on a limb, however a distal injury can cause 'paw flipping'. Radial nerve avulsion is common in dogs that have experienced lateral traction injuries. Neurologic exams can be done quickly and efficiently and can provide critical information regarding the health of your animal patient. So if your horse, dog or cat (or other pet) is experiencing unusual behaviors, be sure to ask your practitioner if there may be a neurological problem. Caring for every aspect of your pet will ensure a lifetime of health and wellbeing. Have a comment? Join in!