Call Us Today
(214) 551-5334

Veterinary Chiropractic Care

horse's back

Why Shalako K | Chiropractic is Different

Animal Chiropractic and other forms of Musculoskeletal Manipulation (MSM) are systems of therapeutic application of mechanical forces applied manually through the hands or any mechanical device to treat and/or alleviate impaired or altered function of the musculoskeletal system of animals.

Dr. Kaci has not only completed vet school, but in order to perform animal Chiropractic she has completed 210 hours of an accredited Chiropractic course for animals. Options for Animals College of Chiropractic is the only college in the United States that is recognized by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA).

  • In addition to providing chiropractic care, Shalako K | also provides Acupressure Therapy performed by Layce Sheets CESMT. Acupressure therapy is different than chiropractic care but when used in conjunction with chiropractic care, it is instrumental in healing injuries and restoring normal function and physiology.

Pain Relief for Horses, Without Medications or Surgery

Veterinary Chiropractic and Acupressure therapy is the science, art, and philosophy concerned with good health through the restoration and maintenance of a properly functioning neuromusculoskeletal system, without the use of drugs or surgery. Veterinary Chiropractic care is a manual therapy, which can be used for many health and performance problems. It focuses on the biomechanical dysfunction of the spine and its effect on the entire nervous system throughout the body.

Unlock Peak Performance in Your Horses: The Benefits of Veterinary Chiropractic

Veterinary Chiropractic does not replace traditional veterinary medicine; however, this therapy can provide additional means of diagnosis and treatment options for spinal problems as well as biomechanical-related musculoskeletal disorders. Veterinary Chiropractic can often eliminate the source of acute or chronic pain syndromes, resolve undiagnosed lameness, and restore full performance

Why do I need a Veterinary Chiropractor?

According to the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, Texas Administration Code Title 22 Part 24 Chapter 573 Subchapter B Rule 573.14; Chiropractic care or other forms of Musculoskeletal Manipulation (MSM) can only be performed under the following conditions;

(1) A licensed veterinarian. Animal chiropractic and MSM may be performed by a licensed veterinarian under the following conditions:

According to the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, Texas Administration Code Title 22 Part 24 Chapter 573 Subchapter B Rule 573.14; Chiropractic care or other forms of Musculoskeletal Manipulation (MSM) can only be performed under the following conditions;

(A) a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship has been established as defined in the Act;

(B) an examination has been made by the licensee to determine that animal chiropractic/MSM will not likely be harmful to the patient; and

(C) the licensee obtains as a part of the patient’s permanent record a signed acknowledgment by the owner or other caretaker of the patient that animal chiropractic or MSM is considered by Texas law to be an alternate therapy.

(2) A non-veterinarian employee or an independent contractor. A non-veterinarian employee or an independent contractor may perform these procedures on an animal under the direct or general supervision of the veterinarian if the conditions in paragraph (1)(A) – (C) of this subsection have been met.

The full subsection can be found here and contains the full legal ramifications of performing MSM on animals.

-- FAQ --

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Have questions? Find answers to commonly asked questions about
our mobile veterinary services, appointments, and care philosophy.

Shalako K | is a mobile veterinary service. We provide equine ambulatory services in North Central Texas Region, a 60-mile radius from Pilot Point, Whitesboro, Denton, Gainsville, Sanger, Valley View, Collinsville, and Celina. In addition to providing veterinary care for horses, we offer canine rehabilitation services, as well.

Veterinary chiropractic care is an important part of integrative veterinary medicine, helping restore proper joint and spinal motion to support comfort, mobility, and overall function. It can benefit a variety of animal species and is often used alongside other treatments, including acupuncture, rehabilitation, laser therapy, and Western veterinary medicine.

    • Improves Mobility: Helps restore healthy movement and flexibility for animals of all activity levels.
    • Supports Pain Management: Addresses joint and spinal dysfunction that may contribute to discomfort.
    • Promotes Recovery: Complements rehabilitation and other therapies following injury or illness.
    • Encourages Overall Wellness: Supports proper musculoskeletal function to help animals move and feel their best.

    When combined with chiropractic care, IVAS-certified veterinary acupuncture, rehabilitation, and laser therapy provide a comprehensive, integrative approach tailored to each patient’s individual needs.

    It’s a common misconception that a chiropractic adjustment is only effective if you hear a “pop.” In reality, the popping sound, known as cavitation, is simply the release of gas within a joint and is not an indication of whether the adjustment was successful.

    There are several reasons why animals often do not make this sound during treatment:

    • Different Anatomy: Animals have different joint structures and biomechanics than people, making joint cavitation less common.
    • Gentle, Precise Techniques: Veterinary chiropractic care uses species-specific techniques that focus on restoring normal joint motion safely and comfortably rather than producing an audible sound.
    • Every Patient Is Unique: Some animals may experience cavitation during an adjustment, while many do not. Both outcomes are completely normal and do not affect the effectiveness of treatment.

    The goal of a veterinary chiropractic adjustment is not to create a “pop,” but to improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and restore healthy musculoskeletal function. When appropriate, chiropractic care may also be combined with IVAS-certified veterinary acupuncture, rehabilitation, and laser therapy as part of a personalized integrative treatment plan.

    Yes; for any prescription based items, your animal must be seen by Dr. Kaci.

    No. Shalako K | Veterinary Medicine does not provide reproductive or breeding services for any animal species. Our practice focuses on integrative veterinary medicine, including chiropractic care, IVAS-certified veterinary acupuncture, rehabilitation, laser therapy, and personalized care to support your animal’s health, mobility, comfort, and overall well-being.

    A Coggins test involves more than just laboratory testing. The cost includes the veterinary examination (when required), blood sample collection, laboratory processing, electronic submission through GlobalVetLink (GVL), documentation, and the veterinarian’s review and certification of the official paperwork. These steps help ensure accurate records and compliance with state and federal regulations.

    The Coggins test screens for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), a contagious and reportable disease that affects horses. Current negative Coggins tests are often required for travel, competitions, boarding facilities, and other equine events.

    To learn more about Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), visit the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) website.

    Yes, there is a farm call fee in addition to the other services provided.

    No. However, Dr. Kaci does have a collegue that performs dentals on dogs and cats located in Garland TX. Dr. Kaci can perform a dental exam, grade the teeth, get a cost estimate, and do all the pre-anesthetic workup for a dental and refer you to have a dental done.