A 2006 Gallop Poll shows that
Americans
perceive the veterinary profession to be among the top 3 "Honesty
and Ethical Professions." It's important to remember
that perception isn't always reality. Pet food
manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies spend millions
shaping this perception because their businesses depend on
veterinary recommendations. You've heard the commercials:
"Dr. Sue told us..." And "7 out of 8 vets recommend...." Of course,
most vets in ads are actors chosen because they look
trustworthy, smart and kind. Even though we know this,
our brains retain the
message you can trust your vet.
Most of us "feel" that vets get
into the profession because they love
animals, and will always put animals need first, ahead of
their own financial needs. But is
this true for all of them, all of the time? Do all medical
doctors love people? Do dentists? I doubt it.
The veterinary profession,
like all others, must surely have their share of greedy
businessmen and women who put their own needs ahead of
animal welfare. Some vets must be "book smart" but
lack common sense. Many must be too busy, set in their ways or
lacking in curiosity to
study veterinary medical journals and to take courses in
continuing education. Of course, some vets are wonderful
self-sacrificing animal lovers. Your job, as your dog's
advocate, is to tell the difference.
And just as the AMA shunned
(and still shuns) chiropractors, acupuncturists and other
"alternative practitioners," holistic vets have complained
of intimidation by the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical
Association). Organizations exist primarily to benefit their
members, not the public at large. This is all about business.
Never forget that.
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Before your vet gives your dog or cat a shot,
understand your vet's legal obligation to fully inform you
about the risks and benefits, alternatives to vaccine and
duration of immunity. Read this excellent article on
Veterinary Informed Consent by a vet who's also an
attorney.
Wish you could find
the courage to tell your vet you want to make some changes? Check out our new
video: "Stand Up to Your Veterinarian"
Use this code
to embed this video on your own website or blog:
If your vet used a drug that
caused a reaction, ask the vet to report it ... and follow
up. The FDA estimates that only 1% of adverse reactions are
reported. Or
report it yourself.
Was your dog or cat
a victim of a bad vet? If so, please leave a
comment on our
blog article about dangerous vets or if it's a
vaccination incident
Is
Your Dog’s Vet a Vaccination Expert? Scroll to the bottom of the page and write a
comment in the box then click Submit Comment. For legal
reasons, please do not slander anyone. Just tell about the
situation, not the particulars.
Read Locating a Vet to learn the
difference between holistic and allopathic vets, and to
locate board-certified veterinary specialists, homeopaths,
chiropractors and other practitioners.
Read
Check Out Your Vetif you need
to take action against a vet you suspect of malpractice or
other wrongdoing.
Thinking of filing a complaint?
Find lots of good info on this website:
Vet
Abuse Network.
Read comments made on our blog by people who have
suffered because of a bad vet's actions.
Book called: "What to Do If Your
Dog is Injured or Killed." I haven't read it but the author
is considered an authority.
www.dogbitelaw.com
Are some veterinarians overcharging or pushing unnecessary services?
KNBC News in Los Angeles aired an uncover investigation of
veterinarians. Watch the
video or read the
transcript. Then
read
how DVM
Magazine, a magazine for vets, suggests vets should respond
to telecasts like this one. Dr. Jim Humphries,
president of Veterinary News Network (VNN)
said, "... the honey-moon is over between the media and
veterinary medicine." Read the article
here.
If
you want to switch to more holistic health care methods for
your animals, but your vet is resistant, here's the DVD for
you! Listen as
countless nationally renowned vets discuss how and why
they added integrative techniques and methods (like
nutrition, reduced vaccination, acupuncture, energy medicine
and more) to their practices. This poignant 35 minute film
makes a terrific gift for animal lovers and veterinarians
alike.
Buy it
here. All proceeds benefit the Center for Integrative
Veterinary Health, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation working
to educate the public and vets.
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Disclaimer: The information contained on this
web site is provided for general information purposes. Any
information provided is not veterinary advice and should
not be substituted for a regular consultation with a veterinary
professional. If you have any concerns about your dog's
health, please contact your veterinarian's office immediately.
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If
you want to switch to more holistic health care methods for
your animals, but your vet is resistant, here's the DVD for
you! Listen as