Performing Department
Small Animal Clinical Sciences
Non Technical Summary
Source: American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association; Time Period: 12/26/12 to 12/25/13. We wish to define, through rigorous scientific investigation, the usefulness and safety of complementary and alternative medicine interventions and their roles in improving health and healthcare. Scientific evidence informs decision making by the public, by healthcare professionals, and by health policymakers regarding use and integration of complementary and alternative medicine.
Animal Health Component
100%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
100%
Developmental
(N/A)
Goals / Objectives
Integrate complementary and alternative medicine with conventional medicine in prevention and treatment of disease in animals. Investigate the benefits of and generate new information about complementary and alternative medicine using scientific method. Disseminate information about the integration of complementary and alternative medicine with conventional medicine to academic colleagues, veterinary staff, technicians, students, clinicians, and the public. Educate the above groups on the benefits of this integrative approach.
Project Methods
Senior veterinary students will receive an introduction to many alternative medical practices and systems, which may include acupuncture, cold laser therapy, massage, chiropractic, naturopathy, herbal medicine, supplements, and nutraceuticals. In doing this, we hope to advance the science and practice of symptom management; help future veterinarians develop effective, practical, personalized strategies for promoting health and well-being; and enable better evidence-based decision making regarding complementary and alternative medicine use and its integration into healthcare and healh promotion.