I think what I’m reading is this.
The alternative med folks want to go about their business with no entity protecting the consumer or verifying credentials. Somehow, horse owners all across the US are just supposed to rely upon your word.
The argument to support this notion is that there are a few bad vets out there. What that has to do with the price of eggs I have no idea.
Another argument is that it’s just too hard to establish their occupations as true professions. Even though RN’s, PA, paralegals, and other occupations have managed to do it. Because the veterinary/pharmaceutical/military industrial complex is like the Borg - and they are doomed to assimilation.
In case others haven’t noticed, I’ll point it out. I’ve read nothing in the posts that indicate any of the “alternative” practitioners are interested in doing anything but whining about how unfair this is and how it’s just too difficult to do anything about it.
Tough noogies. You think the other occupations didn’t face similar challenges? Even more difficult? Compare the nursing profession to what it was 20 years ago. Paralegals. Just those two occupations are perfect examples. If you think those people just waltzed into respectability and didn’t have to work for it you’re crazy.
I live in an area that has some of the best veterinarians in the country. We’re blessed. I have never met one who was not fully supportive of things like massage, acupuncture, or other modalities. But I will tell you what they caution. They caution their clients to be very very careful when choosing such a person to work on their horse. Because there are a lot - and I mean a LOT of people who are downright dangerous. And there is no way to weed them out. No way for a horse owner to know if they’re any good.
The good ones are known to local vets and receive referrals all the time. I could call my vet right now and get a list of people he trusts. Farriers included. But again - I’m lucky. I’d not consider that standard across the country.
Veterinary care for a horse (in my opinion) requires a team. The team consists of the owner, vet, farrier and other professionals as needed. I’d never hire a massage therapist that spoke of the veterinary profession in as derogatory manner as MassageLady has done. Neither would I hire a farrier that had no respect for vets. Each trade/profession complements the other. A true professional would act accordingly.
And though these alternative med folks have gotten scads of great advice on this thread - it bears repeating. Get involved in the legislative process, or sit in a corner and pout about how unfair life is.
But don’t be surprised if people don’t join in on the pity party.
This is where the odor of “conspiracy theory” starts seeping in, I’m sorry to say. What are the vets that already are certified and trained in acu/chiro, etc. have to say on this topic?
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