The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association is an excellent resource for information on a variety of holistic modalities. Many sub-specialties of holistic veterinary medicine, however, have their own organizations, offering advanced training, referrals to qualified veterinarians, and more.
Acupuncture
The American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture is “a source for communication, continuing education, and support for Veterinary Acupuncturists in the United States.” The Academy offers an advanced acupuncture certification, similar to board certification. They hold an annual conference and other continuing education events.
The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) “is dedicated to promoting excellence in the practice of veterinary acupuncture as an integral part of the total veterinary health care delivery system.” IVAS offers basic veterinary acupuncture certification annually and publishes an excellent newsletter.
Aromatherapy
The Veterinary Medical Aromatherapy Association is dedicated to the medical use of aromatherapy in animals. They aim to promote standards of excellence in animal aromatherapy, and they offer online courses and certification.
Chiropractic
The American Veterinary Chiropractic Association “is a professional membership group promoting animal chiropractic to professionals and the public, and acting as the certifying agency for doctors who have undergone post-graduate animal chiropractic training.” They host an annual conference each year, and maintain a list of post-graduated training programs.
Herbal Medicine
The American College of Veterinary Botanical Medicine seeks to increase the proficiency and competence of veterinarians in the use of medicinal plants, ultimately leading to diplomate status in the specialty of veterinary botanical medicine.
The Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association is “dedicated to developing responsible herbal practice by encouraging research and education, strengthening industry relations, keeping herbal tradition alive as a valid information source, and increasing professional acceptance of herbal medicine for animals.” The VBMA offers advanced certification and training, plus a journal and other practice resources.
The College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies provides education in evidence-based natural medicine, and offers online instruction in both Western and Eastern herbal medicine. They also offer accredited, advanced degrees in herbal medicine, plus natural animal health care classes for non-veterinarians.
The Veterinary Cannabis Society is committed to bringing together veterinarians, pet parents, and cannabis companies to ensure the appropriate and safe use of medicinal cannabis in pets.
Homeopathy
The Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy is “dedicated to understanding and preserving the principles of Classical Homeopathy.” They offer certification, an annual conference, and a biannual journal.
Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine
The American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians is “dedicated to improving the quality of life in animals through physical medicine and rehabilitation.” They offer an annual meeting as part of the annual American Veterinary Conference in Orlando, Florida, and can recommend organizations offering post-doctoral rehab training.
