Homeopathy

I ask that the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS):

Produces a public position statement on homeopathy

EXAMPLE: The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has reviewed the evidence concerning homeopathy and concluded that it is ineffective in animals.

Homeopathic remedies have not been, and are not, subject to the same testing of efficacy, safety and quality as conventional medical products.

It has been demonstrated that some people respond to homeopathic treatment because of their belief in it (the so-called 'placebo' effect), and the College recognises that people who have benefited in this way may wish to try homeopathy on their animals.

Animals cannot respond to treatment because of their belief in a treatment, so they cannot benefit from a placebo effect in this way.

In addition, there is proven existence of the 'caregiver placebo effect', where an owner (or indeed a veterinary surgeon) believes that the animal is responding to treatment when in fact they are not.

For the above reasons, the College considers it unethical to use homeopathy as a first line treatment in animals, or in place of treatment based on proven medicines and rational scientific principles.
Requires veterinary surgeons who prescribe homeopathic remedies to get owners to sign a consent form, prepared by the College, giving the College's views on the ineffectiveness of homeopathy.
Enforces the requirement that veterinary surgeons abide by the Advertising Standards Authority regulations concerning the advertising of medical treatments.
Requires that advertising or promotion of homeopathy by a veterinary surgeon is accompanied by an abbreviated version of the RCVS position statement.

EXAMPLE: The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has reviewed the evidence concerning homeopathy and concluded that it is ineffective in animals. It should not be used as a first line treatment, or in place of treatment based on proven medicines and rational scientific principles.

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