When I was responding to Greekblue's questions regarding supplements and the slightly controversial use of joint supplements, I started thinking about the vet's we bring our dogs to. I personally have found my vet somewhat dismissive sometimes to my concerns. For example, when I had concerns regarding giving my dog ivermectin (one of the heartworm meds) because ivermectin IS a poison, since it kills parasites, my vet basically said 'the benefits far outweigh the risks'. I didn't feel that she really addressed my fundamental concerns. When I asked about overvaccination, she was pretty dismissive about that, too.
When Sophie was attacked, I did a lot of homeopathic remedies that are purported to expedite the healing process. When Sophie's ribs (that were not just broken, they were CRUSHED from the 100 lb dog pummeling her on her side) knitted in about a month (the emergency vets said AT LEAST 8-12 wks) I talked about all the remedies that I did with Sophie. My vet appeared only mildly interested. I thought this was slightly miraculous-going from the night the injury occured hearing from the vet that my 13 wk old puppy would probably die due to her massive injuries to being fully healed in a month-but did not get much response. At that point, I had been a first time dog owner for 3 WEEKS, and am a social worker-no background in science or vet medicine-and fully believe my research and remedies helped my dog heal faster.
I have done intensive research on dog health and nutrition, and have read a lot of arguments that most veterinary schools provide very little formal education on dog nutrition (especially any alternative to regular grocery store kibble) and many commercial dog food companies give 'donations' to vet schools, which I would believe influences the education. I have also read that vaccines are very lucrative to vets, so that's why they push them. I have called almost every single vet in my county, and found only one (located 45 mins away from me, of course!) that supports titers, which I believe is less lucrative.
Most vets I have had experiences with sell Science Diet in their office, which is complete junk, IMO. I brought Sophie to the vets the day after I got her as a pup, and she recommended Purina or SD! I was appalled, and knew much less then than I do now, and STILL knew better.
So why haven't I switched vets? I have called many others, and they all have similar philosophies, and all seem terrified of 'looking and thinking outside the box' of conventional vet medicine, which might be debunked at this point, or at least concerns raised. I feel pretty resigned to doing my own research and decisions regarding anything slightly outside the norm.
What are your experiences? Do your vets suggest 'alternative therapies' or supplements, even as simple as apple cider vinegar or adding yogurt to their diets? Suggest raw or home cooked diets? Do they offer any HIGH QUALITY dog foods at their office (not SD!)? Ever suggest titers? Here is an interesting website:
TITER TEST