Equine chiropractors work on horses to help heal or ease problems within the horse's body caused by lack of flexibility within the horse's spine. The stiffness in the spine may cause symptoms in other parts of the horse's body, so veterinarians may recommend chiropractic work to deal with issues ranging from lameness to behavioral changes.
Who They Are
Equine chiropractors are generally veterinarians themselves or human chiropractors. Both groups can receive certifications from an organization such as the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association's Animal Chiropractic Certification Commission (ACCC) as long as the veterinarians or chiropractors are licensed to practice by the appropriate state boards.
Postgraduate Work
Whether a veterinarian or a human chiropractor, the potential equine chiropractor must complete postgraduate studies at a school approved by the certifying organization, which keeps a list of approved institutions and can give you the contact information for each institution.
Examinations
You will be expected to complete the examinations for certification within a certain amount of time after you graduate from the postgraduate training program, though there may be provisions for those who cannot, such as those attending another, shorter training class. For example, the ACCC requires all examinations be completed within one year after graduation. Examinations may be written and clinical in nature.
Recertification
Certification is only good for a certain amount of time, which is specified by the certifying organization, and you can keep your certification only by completing the hours of continuing education required by it. These hours can be fulfilled by observing other certified doctors' work, attending continuing education courses and lectures, or by reading certain works.
Why Get Certified?
Being a certified equine chiropractor can help you gain referrals by including your name on websites and printed directories. You may also be invited to speak at more functions, and you will be allowed to use the term "certified" in your own advertising as well as on reports.
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