Overview of Complementary Therapies in Veterinary Medicine

Catalog description

This course will introduce the veterinary student to numerous complementary and alternative modalities currently being offered by veterinarians or requested by clients. Concerns and controversies will be discussed for each modality, along with how training can be acquired. Topics will include acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal medicine, rehabilitation and physical therapy, philosophies of energy medicine, homeopathy, integrative nutrition and nutraceuticals. Critical evaluation of the evidence for efficacy of these treatments will be emphasized, along with the current understanding of the contribution of the placebo effect to apparent response to treatment. The first 4 weeks of the course will emphasize large animals while the second 4 weeks emphasize small animals. Students may enroll in one or both portions of the class.