Homeopathic Treatment of Birds and Other Wildlife
Wild animals are commonly admitted for rehabilitation with health problems. Many of these conditions are a result of an injury, such as a fall, blow, or puncture. The animal may arrive in shock, dehydrated, emaciated, in respiratory distress, or having seizures. Wildlife rehabilitators provide quiet, heat, fluids and basic first aid – as well as effective rehabilitation care, such as appropriate diets and facilities. They work closely with veterinarians to ensure the animal gets the appropriate veterinary care.
Like many others in the last decade, wildlife rehabilitators have become more aware of and interested in alternatives to conventional medical practice. This does not mean that they are turning away from conventional veterinary care, but rather considering a wider range of options that might help their wild patients regain health and return to the wild more quickly. Many of these health care modalities, or approaches, are considered complementary to conventional western medicine. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, botanical (herbal) medicine, and flower essences.
Homeopathy has attracted especially high interest from the wildlife rehabilitation community. Homeopathy has been used widely and safely around the world for 200 years with people and domesticated animals. Many rehabilitators using homeopathic first aid with wildlife have found it to help the wild animals recover and be released more quickly. It is relatively inexpensive and easy to administer. Classical homeopathy is also very different from medical practices that most North Americans are familiar. It takes study and special resources to effectively use this powerful and complex modality.
Rehabilitators interested in using homeopathic first aid with wildlife are encouraged to become familiar with and follow basic homeopathic principles. They are also encouraged to consult with a homeopathic veterinarian. While homeopathy may be used safely, it should not be considered a ‘quick and easy fix’ or used to the exclusion of veterinary care.
Learn more at Shirley’s excellent Wild Again website.
homevet@holisticactions.com