How to Become a Holistic Vet

Becoming a holistic veterinarian involves many courses and certifications even after veterinary school, but it allows the vet to understand the patient much more thoroughly than would otherwise be the case. Holistic veterinary medicine takes into account all aspects of the patient's life, not just the presenting complaint. Diet, behavior, and emotional stress are all examined as relating to the pet's present condition, and the patient is treated as a whole rather than a set of symptoms. To become a holistic vet, the first step is to graduate veterinary school and pass all board exams, then move on to certification in the specialized fields of holistic veterinary medicine.

Things You'll Need

• Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Instructions

Memberships

1. Join the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA). The AHVMA is the only association that represents all holistic veterinarians. Members share experiences and knowledge, and membership grants access to journals and client literature. The AHVMA also offers scholarships to students interested in holistic veterinary medicine.

2. Join the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition (AAVN). Veterinary nutrition is the most cost-effective preventative therapy known and is a cornerstone of the holistic practice.The AAVN offers membership to both veterinarians and anyone interested in veterinary nutrition. Becoming a member offers the chance to share information and experience with others and the opportunity to speak at AAVN conferences. Funding for research projects is also available.

3. Join the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB). Behavior modification plays an important role in holistic veterinary medicine and can help strengthen the bond between pet and owner. Membership in the AVSAB is open to veterinarians as well as to those with a PhD in animal behavior or a related field. Upon joining, members are able to consult with others in the field and attend conferences and seminars that can further education in behavior-related fields.

Certifications

1. Become certified by the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy (AVH). Homeopathic medicine is practiced by most holistic veterinarians and is based on the concept of "like cures like," as well as orthomolecular medicine, or supplemental medicine and prevention. The AVH offers a six-month course in which the student becomes certified to practice homeopathic veterinary medicine. The student must pass a qualifying exam, submit four case studies, and pass a final exam to receive certification.

2. Become certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS). Acupuncture is a rapidly growing field in the veterinary community. Many practitioners report patients' relief from musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and nerve damage. The IVAS offers a certification program for veterinarians wishing to add acupuncture to their practice. Applicants must attend four five-day sessions, pass both a written exam and a practical exam, submit case reports, and complete an internship to become certified.

3. Become certified by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA). Veterinary chiropractors are becoming more in demand as pets live longer and require long-term care for chronic musculoskeletal complaints like arthritis. The AVCA offers a certification course that includes 210 hours of instruction, an exit exam, and separate written and practical exams. The resulting certification must be renewed every three years by completing 30 hours of continuing education, ensuring that veterinary chiropractors are kept up-to-date on the latest advances in their field.

4. Become certified by the Veterinary Botanical Medical Association (VBMA). Botanical medicine involves using herbs and herbal derivatives to prevent, treat, and cure disease. The VBMA offers a certification in botanical medicine for licensed veterinarians. Applicants must pass an exam, submit three case studies, and donate ten questions to a future exam.

Tips & Warnings

• The more certifications you receive, the more complete and well-rounded your holistic veterinary practice can be.

References

• American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association
• International Veterinary Acupuncture Society
• Veterinary Botanical Medical Association
• American Veterinary Chiropractic Association
• American Association of Veterinary Nutrition

Resources

• American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association