Would you support a policy that states homeopathy is an ineffective practice and that its use as a veterinary therapy be discouraged? The American Veterinary Medical Association’s House of Delegates, which has representatives from nearly every state and a dozen or more allied groups, voted on that very issue during its winter session.
Resolution 3, submitted by the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), proposed this policy. The resolution was supported by an anonymous white paper that was predominantly a reiteration of policies from medical organizations demanding the use of methods and treatments supported to a scientific standard. However, the white paper did not provide any explanation why homeopathy is a problem, merely emphasizes the lack of sound research supporting it.
The House of Delegates voted (majority vote) to refer the resolution to the Executive Board, with recommendation to refer it to the Council on Veterinary Services for consideration in the spring.
Editor's Note: While we are relieved the AVMA voted no on the controversial resolution, it is not over yet. The issue will once again be on the table this spring.
It is the obligation of veterinarians to prevent and relieve the suffering of animals by consulting with clients on available treatment methods. If Resolution 3 is eventually passed, the AVMA impugns the potential benefits of alternative medicine and treatments, which are not backed by indisputable evidence. The damage this does to clients who value alternative medicine in the bond with their companions will be heartbreaking.
Homeopathy is certainly not a panacea. Neither is conventional medicine. Both have strengths and weaknesses. Whether you use homeopathy or not, please support our right to choose therapies that work for our companion animals.