A Questionnaire Study on the Use of Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine for Dogs in Sweden

Abstract

Complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM) includes treatment methods that are not part of established veterinary medicine and where there is not as yet sufficient scientific documentation of the proposed effects. The CAVM use in Swedish dogs is largely unknown, and the aim of this study was to explore this use. Electronic questionnaires were distributed to dog owners, small animal veterinary practitioners, and CAVM therapists. A total of 253 dog owners responded. Except for massage, stretching, and laser therapy, more than 75% of the respondents stated that they did not use CAVM for their dogs. Of the 216 responding veterinarians, 39% did not use CAVM. CAVM use was more common among respondents with <10 years of work experience as compared to those with >10 years of work experience (p < 0.05). Almost half of the 124 responding CAVM therapists treated dogs; the most frequently used methods included massage, stretching, and acupressure. A majority of all respondents found the current Swedish regulation of CAVM insufficient. Although CAVM use in Swedish dogs appears to be uncommon, there is a need for scientific assessment of CAVM in dogs as regards safety and effectiveness for different indications.

Use of sources of final-year veterinary students to answer clinical research questions

“…Complementary and alternative veterinary medicine is not a fixed part of the veterinary curriculum in Germany at present, but is offered in most cases on a voluntary basis [17]. Research indicates a demand from pet owners for these treatments [18,19]. Further research is necessary to evaluate whether the use of textbooks on this subject may hold a measure of value.…”

A Systematic Review of Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine in Sport and Companion Animals: Electrotherapy

“…These methods can be used as part of the rehabilitation process or individually as single treatments. Professionals as well as lay people currently use electrotherapy modalities, as in many countries the methods' availability and use on animals are not regulated by law [6][7][8][9][10]. Since electrotherapy equipment is often relatively affordable, and its selling or use is not controlled or restricted in any way, it is popular in CAVM.…”