Certification in animal chiropractic is reserved exclusively for chiropractors (DCs, doctors of chiropractic for humans) and veterinarians (DVMs). It occurs through either the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA) or the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA). Each is a joint program for both chiropractors (DCs) and veterinarians (DVMs). There are various terms used to describe an animal chiropractic professional. Ruth Lacey is a Chiropractic Veterinarian, or a Veterinarian Certified in Animal Chiropractic. The term Animal Chiropractor is reserved for the chiropractors (DCs) who have additional certification in animal chiropractic. The term Veterinary Chiropractor is reserved for a person who holds a dual degree as both a chiropractor and veterinarian (DC and DVM). Our own founder of animal chiropractic in the USA was one, Sharon Willoughby-Blake, DVM, DC! Animal chiropractic can also be referred to as veterinary chiropractic, but it is most commonly referred to as animal chiropractic to be more clear that it includes both the veterinarians (DVMs) and chiropractors (DCs) certified in it. Also, be aware that there are a number of lay people posing as animal chiropractic providers deceiving pet owners and getting paid to "adjust" their animals. This is at best ineffective for the animal, and at worst dangerous for the animal. They also post misleading videos on social media. It is imperative to make sure you are using a licensed and credentialed provider - either a DC also certified by the AVCA or IVCA, or a DVM also certified by the AVCA or IVCA.​