VetSurgeon.org has joined forces with referral practitioner Alex Gough to conduct a survey into the profession's attitude to the use of homeopathy in animals.
Whilst the debate continues to rage over its use in human medicine, this is believed to be the first time that there has been a survey of opinion within the veterinary profession.
Alex Gough said: "This should give us an interesting insight into how practitioners feel about one of the more well-known systems of alternative medicine. That in turn may add something to the broader debate outside the veterinary profession."
Arlo said: "We really need as many veterinary surgeons as possible to take part, in order to get the most accurate picture. There are only 8 questions, and it should take less than a minute."
Click here (veterinary surgeons only), to take part in the survey.
PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.
Not giving me the chance to do the survey -?
Certainly should do. What's the problem?
I tried the homeopathy survey, but stopped as the questions polarised a more complex argument. I would like to see the questions extended to address perceptions of evidence, eg allowing a response to Q5 as “an unproven form of vet med”, Q3 to include “if an appropriate evidence base demonstrated, to Q4 “do you feel there is a condition where an evidence base exists for homeopathy, etc
The key for me is evidence base, and I feel this to be missing in homeopathy. Medicinal products are required to demonstrate an evidence base prior to registration. Not so for homeopathy. I feel adding questions about vets views on the evidence base for homeopathy will allow a more informed debate, and highlight potential avenues to drive wider acceptance, eg by demonstrating efficacy in a controlled clinical trial.
Hi Ian,
The objective of this survey is not to judge the profession's opinion about the evidence base (or lack of) for homeopathy, but about homeopathy itself.
I agree that the question about evidence required for the sale of some alternative products (e.g. homeopathy) compared to licensed products is an interesting one, and you've inspired some ideas for a future survey.
However, it's just not the point of this questionnaire. I think your suggestion would have muddied the waters, when what we are really after is the answer to the simple question: Do you think it works, or not?