NYC chiropractor treats ballerinas, Rockettes — and barnyard animals

pet

by asia grace

He has a series of appointments scheduled.

For decades, Manhattan chiropractor Doug Willen has treated the city's top groups, including the Rockettes and professional ballerinas like Misty Copeland, from his Fifth Avenue office. His field of expertise ismedical aesthetics” — which manipulates the human form to not only feel good but also look good — charges $350 for a 45-minute visit.

But in recent years, his customer base has also grown to include animals, both pets and barnyard creatures such as cows and Clydesdales.

“It's my hobby, my passion and hopefully my future,” says the 59-year-old. says it in a YouTube videohis @AnimalCrackerDrDougWillen account has 461,000 followers.

A Long Island native, Willen grew up raising dogs, snakes, and iguanas and has always loved animals. So, in 2020, he decided to expand his practice to include over 17 different species and earn certification through the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

“My true passion is working with medically disabled animals in non-profit organizations. I really enjoy volunteering,” says Scott, who regularly provides his services for free to animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations. Willen told the Post.

He often goes to the countryside to meet his four-legged customers, and they come to him from time to time. Last March, a large 16-year-old goat named Jasper came from rural New Jersey to Willen's stylish suite in Manhattan to have his jaw realigned.he was the largest animal ever observed please come to the office.

“He urinated all over the floor. Goat pee smells so bad,” Willen said. “The smell doesn't go away when you wipe it, like cat or dog urine. It's very strong, so it lasts a long time.”

Not all animal patients develop such confusion.

Rookie, a docile 12-year-old Yorkie-poo and model from Sutton Place, was one of Willen's first non-human patients.

The Hurricane Sandy rescue dog was brought to Willen's office by her owner, Christy Park, who had previously sought help from a chiropractor after twisting her back. When Rookie struggled to walk, sit, and squat properly, she took him in.

“Dr. Doug said, 'Maybe it's not just the kneecap, it might be the hip joint,'” court stenographer Park said. “He made some adjustments, so now the rookie walks and sits much better.”

These days, both dogs and their owners are visiting the clinic on a regular basis.

“It's great to be able to take rookies to the chiropractor,” Park said. “Whether he's getting an adjustment or just coming with me to his doctor's appointments, it makes my life a lot easier.”

Mr. Willen focuses on treating his veterinary patients, whose owners pay between $200 and $250 per session, with the utmost respect.

“I say, 'Can I work with you today?'” he said, admitting that he can't actually talk to the creatures like Mr. Dolittle. “It helps me remember that I'm working in their service. They're probably scared because it's painful, and I'm about to stick my finger in that inflamed area.'' That is what we are doing.”

Not all living things are big or small. have the same respect To him. He says he is “usually able to run away” before a horse or cow kicks him, but there have been times when he has been unable to avoid injury.

“I knew I was going to get a kick in the leg. But I also knew that if I held down one spot on the back for another 30 seconds, it would release,” she says of working with an equine client. he said. “I was happy that I was able to make the sacrifice and help the animals.”

Other furry patients are more appreciative.

“When I open the wound, the animals come up and almost tickle me with their noses,” Willen said. “It's like saying, 'Thank you for helping me.'”