Alternative Therapy

Conventional Vet Medicine

Drug therapySurgical procedures

Scientific evidence of therapeutic benefitsScientific evidence of contra-indicationsModes of action usually understood

When using alternative therapy

Informed consent must be given before use.What is informed consent?

Expect the patient to improve.First do no harm.

HomeopathyBased on "like cures like".

A natural substance that has been diluted many times – it is considered stronger the more times it is diluted.

In large quantities these substances would cause the same symptoms the patient is trying to cure.

In the diluted form is thought to trigger the body to heal itself.

No scientific evidence that it is effective.

IridologyIridology is the analysis of patterns and

structures in the iris. Said to determine whether the person has

any weaknesses in body tissue which shows itself as manifested disease or which could lead to disease in the future.

No scientific evidence that it is effective.

Traditional Chinese MedicineRe-establishing balance & harmony within the body.

balance between: yin and yang; the five phases; the viscera and bowels; qi, blood & body fluids.

This balance is re-established by supporting the body's healthy or righteous energy and attacking any unhealthy or evil energy.

Scientific evidence exists for supporting the body with good nutrition and healthy lifestyle.

Scientific evidence exists for some herbal remedies.

Otherwise no scientific evidence that it is effective.

Machine based MedicineA variety of devices that are usually magnetic or

electronic and are said to influence and correct the bodies aura (electromagnetic field).

No scientific evidence that it is effective.

ChiropracticMinor adjustments to the spine to correct minor

misalignments or deformities in the vertebral column known as subluxations.

Should have an X-ray done first.Scientific evidence exists for efficacy of this for

some patients especially back issues.Can cause damage if done incorrectly or for

some spinal injuries.

OsteopathyMinor adjustments to the skeletal muscular

system to correct minor misalignments or deformities.

Should have an X-ray done first.Scientific evidence exists for efficacy of this for

some patients especially orthopaedic issues.Can cause damage if done incorrectly or for

some types of injuries.

Herbal & natural remediesHerbs or natural substances used to treat

illnesses.

Scientific evidence exists for effectiveness for this for some herbals and natural remedies. Evidence for pure form, effect of mixing herbs? Plant may produce a variable amount of the active

ingredient depending on time of year, temp. etc. Some tablets have active ingredient measured which

is better than those that don’t. Consider interactions with drugs or other treatments.

Holistic medicineTreatment of the whole animal not just the

disease condition.Consider other ailments, diet, level of exercise,

mental stimulation, lifestyle, environment etc.

Scientific evidence exists for benefits of this.One positive feature of conventional veterinary

medicine as opposed to commonly practice human medicine is the more holistic nature.

AcupunctureUse of needles applied to specific points to treat

specific organs. These needles may be manipulated, heated or have a mild electric current passed through them.

Scientific evidence exists for effectiveness of this. Especially for orthopaedic issues and as an

alternative to anaesthesia. May work by release of endorphins but

possibility of other modes of action.

Supplementary vitamins & mineralsAdditional vitamins and minerals over diet.

Scientific evidence exists for effectiveness of this in certain situations: Local mineral deficiencies eg selenium. Conditions that affect absoption eg

pancreatitis. Additional needs eg pregnancy and lactation.

Sometimes possible to provide for in diet.