ACUPUNCTURE WINS THE WEST

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Acupuncture Goes Mainstream

Although much has been documented about human acupuncture, its veterinary counterpart has received little attention. In fact, until last summer the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) wouldn't sanction the technique, calling it (experimental. "

Now, however, AVMA states: "Veterinary acupuncture and acutherapy are considered valid modalities. But potential for abuse exists. These techniques should be regarded as surgical and/or medical procedures under state veterinary practice acts. It is recommended that extensive educational programs be undertaken before a veterinarian is considered competent to practice acupuncture. . . ."

Enter the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS). Established in 1975, the U.S.-based WAS now has more than 200 veterinarian members. In an effort to keep "quackupuncture" to a minimum, WAS provides a certification program for licensed vets, requiring 120 hours of seminars and a comprehensive exam, plus five case reports. And to retain certified status, a vet must take 10 hours of instruction every year. "An awful lot of acupuncture is being done out there by quacks," says Dr. Durkes. "But when performed by a licensed and skilled IVAS certified vet, acupuncture will more than likely pay for itself."

For a list of IVAS-certified veterinarians, write: Dr. Meredith Snader, WAS Secretary, Rte. 4, Box 216, Chester Springs, PA 19425.

Author Dave Kendall is an associate editor for The New Farm magazine.

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