Complementary Therapies - (15 credits)

Complementary therapies are experiencing attention in both veterinary and lay circles worldwide, and discussion regarding the use of these therapies in veterinary medicine is intensifying. Many scientists feel that therapies such as homeopathy lack clinical evidence, whereas ethno-veterinary medicines and physical therapies have been tested vigorously with varying results. Despite the contrast in scientific evidence, many complementary therapies still continue to gain popularity with animal owners. This module investigates the evidence of validity and reliability of a range of therapies, across a range of species; exploring both those validated by science, and those with a vast amount of anecdotal and scientific evidence, in order to determine the role of these therapies in veterinary medicine, and the future for their control and use. Students will be encouraged to question and evaluate a range of holistic therapies using both anecdotal and scientific information, resulting in their increased appreciation of the complex nature of this subject. Analysis of evidence to form a solid argument base is essential for those entering the field of animal therapy, in order to appropriately educate the lay-person, and maintain the welfare of animals within their care.