Pets & Vets

Complementary Therapies for Pets

MANY pet owners are seeking additional therapies to complement the mainstream remedies on offer from their primary vets.

With options ranging from homeopathy and herbal medicine to hydrotherapy and massage, these clients are wanting something more than just pills.

After recent controversy in the media and cynics questioning the efficacy of treatments that have limited scientific backing, many of us are left feeling unsure how to proceed.

Several months ago, however, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons released a statement in which they emphasised the need for evidence-based medicine.

In the case of the muchdebated homeopathy, for example, they stated it should not be seen as a replacement to conventional medicine.

The BSAVA (British Small Animal Veterinary Association) suggests owners consider the evidence available as well as the qualifications of the alternative practitioner, and that they consult with their vet before considering unconventional routes.

One area where vets and owners are taking the complementary therapy route these days is in pain management and rehabilitation.

For elderly pets with arthritis, many vets recommend adding acupuncture and massage to their recovery plan, as well as nutraceuticals (all-natural nutritional supplements).

For animals recovering from orthopaedic surgery or needing to lose weight, a course of hydrotherapy is often advised.

It is clear that not all complementary treatments are made equal, and it is the responsibility of both the vet and the owner to ensure that they are providing the animal with the best possible options.

Owners need to have open minds and work with their vets, while vets must avoid alienating those clients who may have different medical opinions.

When used in conjunction with proven medicine, it’s clear alternative therapies have a lot to offer and shouldn’t be discounted. ■