We’re excited to share great news for pet owners and animal lovers across New Hampshire! A new law—House Bill 267, signed by Governor Ayotte in 2025—now protects the ability for qualified Doctors of Chiropractic to provide safe, specialized chiropractic care for animals, improving access to holistic care options for pets across the state.
This important legislation, championed by Representative Diane Kelley, ensures that animals can benefit from gentle, non-invasive chiropractic techniques that help improve mobility, reduce pain, and support overall wellness—especially for pets with musculoskeletal issues, injuries, or age-related stiffness.
Rep. Diane Kelley poses with her dog, Bodhi.
Under the new law, animal chiropractic care is protected by statute when provided by licensed Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) who have completed a nationally recognized animal chiropractic program. At this time, at least two such certification programs exist. The American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (ACCC/AVCA) and the Germany-based International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA) are nationally recognized animal chiropractic programs.
Certified professionals are now authorized to care for animals without needing a veterinary license, expanding access while maintaining high standards of training and safety. The new protections go into effect July 15, 2025.
The NHCA proudly supported this bill through several legislative cycles, as part of our commitment to improving health and wellbeing—both for people and the animals they love. We consulted to ensure accurate language, raised awareness and education among House committee members, initiated a letter campaign among interested chiropractors, and voted to publicly support the bill.
We extend our deepest thanks to Representative Diane Kelley (R-Temple), who initiated and championed this important legislation. She stated that after getting pivotal chiropractic care for her dog, Bodhi, from Dr. Valerie Lunnon in Laconia, she was motivated to ensure there was legal protection for such essential and compassionate care. Her leadership and commitment were instrumental in guiding HB 267 through the legislative process and into law.
Dr. Valerie Lunnon of Laconia with one of her canine patients
This law recognizes the specialized training of chiropractors and opens the door for those certified in animal chiropractic to offer their services legally and confidently in New Hampshire.
We’re proud to be part of a movement that puts pet health first by offering more choices for care. Whether it’s a dog performing at agility competitions, a senior cat dealing with stiffness, or a beloved companion animal with discomfort, chiropractic care can now be part of the solution.