Homeopathy

What Is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a therapy developed by the German doctor Samuel Hahnemann about 200 years ago. He discovered that a substance that causes signs of illness in a healthy person, can be used to treat the same symptoms in a sick patient. Hence the name homeopathy: similar (homoios) to the disease (pathos).

How Does It Work?

The homeopathic remedy stimulates the body’s own healing powers, which will restore the patient’s natural balance. The principle is similar to the way a thermostat of a central heating system operates. When it is incorrectly set, it could get too chilly. The homeopathic remedy readjusts the thermostat, so to speak, so that the temperature will rise again. The remedy itself  is not giving off heat, but stimulates the body system to produce this heat itself again.

Which Animals Will Respond to Homeopathy?

Every living creature is capable of responding to homeopathy, but for certain species of animal selecting a remedy may require a higher level of expertise. The method and frequency of administration may also vary for different species. Veterinary surgeons with  IAVH certification have undergone a thorough training in homeopathy, and some specialize in treating certain kinds of animal.

Which Conditions Can Be Treated with Homeopathy?

Conditions which generally  respond well to homeopathic treatment include musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal problems, bladder conditions and infertility. Conditions such as skin diseases usually require  long-term treatment. In some cases, such as the treatment of the side effects of vaccines or conventional medicines ,we prefer the term ’support’  rather than ‘cure’.  However patients suffering from epilepsy, tumours or terminal disease can still experience an improvement in quality of life and general well being. In addition, homeopathy can be used in those cases for which conventional medicine has no adequate solution, such as behavioural problems, paralysis, idiopathic fevers and cases of poisoning.

What to Expect From a Treatment?

During the initial consultation a thorough anamnesis (case history) is taken. The purpose is to clarify the nature of the animal’symptoms and problems. In this respect it is not only the diagnosis or the name of the disease that is important, but also the factors affecting the symptoms, such as the initiating cause and the factors which relieve or aggravate the symptoms. Other important information derives from an assessment of the animal’s character, features such as its appetite and thirst, and from its previous medical history.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

The initial consultation takes approximately 1 hour, after which a remedy can be prescribed, either immediately or after further analysis. Follow up times depend on the individual patient but in chronic cases may typically be up to a month after the initial consultation.

The length of treatment depends on the nature of the disease and on how deeply it has affected the organism. Acute conditions usually respond very quickly, but patients suffering from chronic disease may need treatment for weeks or months, depending on the individual.

Homeopathy and Insurance

As treatment is administered by a veterinary surgeon most homeopathic consultations and medicines are covered by standard animal insurance policies.