Amy Hayek, DVM, CVA, CVC
As President and Co-Founder of Animal Chiropractic Education Source, I'm thrilled to share a bit about my amazing weekend in Charleston, South Carolina. When we get away from the ranch, we like to do things that benefit our students and clients. That is exactly what I am doing today.
I am reminded why I want to talk to you about why August is the perfect time to dive into your animal chiropractic training.
Reason #1: Prepare for the AVCA Exam with Ample Time
Starting your training in August gives you a full year to prepare for the AVCA exam in September. This extended timeline allows you to fit the training into your schedule, making it flexible and accommodating to your personal and professional life. Whether it's a family event or a sudden life change, having this extra time helps you avoid last-minute stress and ensures you can complete your training without excuses.
I know many of you are hesitant, worried about whether you can do it or if it will be financially viable. Starting in August is a strategic move that sets you up for success so that you will be able to begin making money for your practice.
Reason #2: Build Your Own Economy in Uncertain Times
With the current economic climate and the uncertainty surrounding election cycles, now is the time to start building your own economy. Animal chiropractic offers a fantastic opportunity for veterinarians and chiropractors to create additional income streams. For chiropractors, it’s a great way to move away from the insurance-driven model. For veterinarians facing burnout, it offers a new, rewarding way to practice. By starting your training in August, you can be ready to add this service before December, just in time to enjoy the benefits during the holiday season.
Reason #3: Enjoy Flexible, Personalized Training
August marks the beginning of a new phase in Texas, with the weather gradually cooling down. Our lab sessions are available every month, and by starting in August, you can plan your training around a time that’s comfortable for you. With limited spots available in each lab session, you might even find yourself in a one-on-one setting, receiving personalized instruction. This ensures you become an exceptional adjuster, mastering the skills at your own pace.
If you’ve been considering adding animal chiropractic to your practice, now is the time to act. August is the perfect month to get started, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. To get registered and begin your journey, visit https://animalchiropracticeducation.com.
Not sure if animal chiropractic is right for you?
Join our free webinar, “Intro to Animal Chiropractic”, next Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. https://www.animalchiropracticeducation.com/introtoanimalchiropractic
We’ll walk you through the strategies we use to help doctors build successful animal chiropractic practices.
Clear your schedule and give yourself 90 minutes to explore whether this path is right for you and your family.
Register today at https://www.animalchiropracticeducation.com/introtoanimalchiropractic and take the first step towards a fulfilling and financially rewarding addition to your practice.
For more details, read on.
Lab 1 in animal chiropractic training is a foundational, hands-on session that focuses on introducing students to the core principles and techniques of animal chiropractic care. Here’s an overview of what Lab 1 typically covers:
1. Introduction to Animal Chiropractic
Overview of the history, philosophy, and science behind animal chiropractic.
Understanding the role and importance of chiropractic care in maintaining the health and wellness of animals.
Providing the student with knowledge of the every expanding ripple effect of animal chiropractic on their communities.
2. Anatomy and Biomechanics
Detailed study of animal anatomy, particularly the skeletal and muscular systems.
Understanding animal biomechanics and how movement affects overall health.
Identifying key anatomical landmarks for chiropractic adjustments.
3. Safety and Handling Techniques
Proper techniques for safely handling animals during chiropractic examinations and adjustments.
Learning how to read animal behavior to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for both the practitioner and the animal.
4. Chiropractic Evaluation and Diagnosis
Becoming proficient in the Freedom Fulfillment Framework and especially “Show Me Animal Chiropractic” the method that empowers clients to understand animal chiropractic in simple terms.
Identifying subluxations (misalignments) and other issues that can be addressed through chiropractic care.
Developing a treatment plan based on the evaluation.
5. Basic Adjustment Techniques
Hands-on training in fundamental chiropractic adjustment techniques.
Practicing adjustments on different types of animals
Emphasizing the correct application of force, direction, and technique to ensure effective and safe adjustments.
6. The Overall Goal of Lab 1
Creating a foundation for your animal chiropractic practice through ACE
Accountability in education by means of quizzes
Community by attending the Mastermind for Animal Chiropractors throughout the month
Emersion in proven practices through the hands on labs, demonstration and repetition on various animal sizes and breeds.
Discussing the importance of working within the scope of practice and collaborating with veterinarians.
7. Client Communication and Education
Techniques for effectively communicating with pet owners and clients.
Educating clients on the benefits of chiropractic care and setting realistic expectations for outcomes.
Building trust and establishing a professional relationship with clients.
8. Practical Application and Case Studies
Applying what you’ve learned through practical exercises and case studies.
Working on live animals under the supervision of experienced instructors.
Receiving feedback and guidance to refine your skills.
Lab 1 is designed to provide a solid foundation in animal chiropractic, preparing you for more advanced techniques and complex cases as you progress through the training program.
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Lab 2 in animal chiropractic training builds on the foundational skills and knowledge acquired in Lab 1. It focuses on deepening your understanding of animal chiropractic care, refining your practical skills, and preparing you to handle more complex cases. Additionally, Lab 2 is designed to help you build confidence in your abilities through repetition, immersion, and modeling proven practices. Here’s an overview of what Lab 2 typically covers:
1. Advanced Anatomy and Biomechanics
- Exploration of the thoracolumbar anatomy and neuroanatomy
- The importance of recognizing how an understanding of neuroanatomy will help the animal chiropractor have more successful outcomes.
- Understanding how patterns in environmental response allow for management of animal cases
2. Neurology and Chiropractic
- Understanding the nervous system’s role in chiropractic care.
- Identifying and addressing neurological interference that may impact the animal’s health and movement.
- Techniques to assess and adjust the nervous system’s influence on the animal
3. Gait Analysis and Posture Evaluation
- Detailed analysis of animal gait to identify abnormalities and areas needing chiropractic intervention.
- Processes for assessing posture and movement patterns in animals.
- Developing treatment plans based on the environment in which the animal lives.
4. Case Management and Treatment Planning
- How to create and manage comprehensive treatment plans for animals with chronic or complex issues.
- Strategies for long-term care and maintenance of animal health through chiropractic adjustments.
- Understanding when to refer to other specialists or when additional diagnostic tests may be necessary.
5. Patient and Client Management
- Advanced communication strategies for managing client expectations and discussing complex cases.
- Educating clients on long-term care strategies and the importance of follow-up visits.
- Techniques for building a sustainable and ethical chiropractic practice.
6. Advanced Practice Building
- Understanding the benefits of solving complex animal health issues with simple plans including animal chiropractic.
7. Recognizing that Chiropractic First can enhance animal health care in spite of other modalities
- Strategies for integrating chiropractic care with other veterinary treatments.
- Understanding the importance of collaboration with veterinarians, and other animal health professionals.
8. Building Confidence Through Repetition and Immersion
- Lab 2 emphasizes the importance of building confidence through consistent practice and immersion in real-world scenarios.
- Students will engage in repeated exercises and hands-on practice, modeling proven techniques to develop their skills.
- The structured environment allows students to refine their abilities, gain self-assurance, and become proficient in delivering effective chiropractic adjustments.
Lab 2 is designed to further develop your skills and knowledge while empowering you with the confidence needed to handle more challenging cases. Through repetition, immersion, and modeling proven practices, you’ll be well-prepared to provide comprehensive and effective care to animal patients.
Lab 3 in animal chiropractic training is an advanced session that builds on the skills and knowledge acquired in Labs 1 and 2. It is designed to refine your expertise, enhance your clinical decision-making, and prepare you for more complex cases and scenarios. Lab 3 focuses on integrating all aspects of animal chiropractic care and ensuring that you are fully equipped to manage a wide range of cases with confidence. Here’s an overview of what Lab 3 typically covers:
1. Advanced Clinical Assessment
Performing comprehensive clinical assessments, including detailed histories and physical examinations.
Advanced diagnostic techniques to identify extremity irregularities and mastering ways to communicate goals for resolution with clients.
Integrating knowledge from previous labs to form a holistic view of the animal’s health.
2. Complex Case Management
Handling more challenging cases, including animals with chronic conditions, injuries, or multi-system involvement.
Developing and adjusting treatment plans for complex cases.
Strategies for managing cases that require long-term care or multi-disciplinary approaches.
Recognizing when a case it NOT chiropractic.
3. Refinement of Adjustment Techniques
Mastering advanced adjustment techniques tailored to specific animals and conditions.
Ensuring precision in adjustments to achieve optimal outcomes.
Practicing on various animal species, creating a method for managing a caseload in a clinic of both dogs and horses.
4. Integrative Veterinary Care
Collaborating effectively with veterinarians and other animal health professionals.
Understanding when and how to incorporate other therapies (e.g., acupuncture, rehabilitation) into chiropractic care.
5. Neurological Considerations
Advanced study of neurological conditions that may affect chiropractic treatment.
Identifying and managing cases with neurological involvement.
Techniques for adjusting animals with neurological impairments safely and effectively.
6. Ethical and Legal Mastery
A deeper exploration of the ethical considerations in complex cases.
Understanding the legal responsibilities and boundaries in advanced practice.
Discussing the importance of maintaining ethical standards in challenging situations.
Knowing when to manage a client into another practice.
7. Building Confidence in Complex Scenarios
Lab 3 provides ample opportunity to build confidence through immersion in complex, real-world scenarios.
Lab 3 continues to provide opportunity for Accountability through quizzes
Lab 3 continues to provide community through Mastermind and development of relationships with classmates.
Lab 3 continues to provide Enhanced Opportunity through the lab work.
Repeated practice and feedback to refine your techniques and decision-making skills.
Modeling best practices from experienced professionals to enhance your ability to handle advanced cases independently.
8. Client and Practice Management
Advanced communication techniques for explaining complex cases to clients.
Managing client expectations and maintaining strong professional relationships.
Strategies for building a thriving practice that includes advanced animal chiropractic care.
9. Preparation for Certification and Practice
Final preparation for certification exams, ensuring you are fully equipped to meet professional standards.
Tips and guidance on establishing or expanding your own animal chiropractic practice.
Reviewing all key concepts and techniques to ensure you’re ready for independent practice.
Lab 3 is the culmination of your animal chiropractic training, designed to ensure that you are fully prepared to handle the most challenging cases with confidence and skill. Through advanced practice, real-world application, and in-depth study, you’ll be ready to provide exceptional care to your animal patients and succeed in your chiropractic practice.
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