Julie Mayer, DVM, CVA, CVC, CCRP has been practicing veterinary medicine in Chicago since 1991 and has recently relocated to Arizona to continue a 15-year journey in holistic medicine and veterinary rehabilitation. Mayer was named one of "Chicago's Best Vets" by Chicago Magazine and received the 2010 Iams Eukanuba AARV Award for excellence in the field of veterinary rehabilitation.
Julie Mayer is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture (Imternational Veterinary Acupuncture Society, 1996) and Veterinary Chiropractic (American Veterinary Chiropractic Association, 1998) and is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner.
Mayer continues to publish articles, perform guest lectures, conduct webinars and even hosts a local radio show. She is the Secretary and serves on the Board Of Directors of the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians and is an active member of the Canine Sports Medicine Association, the American Association of Veterinary Nutrition and other holistic organizations.
According to Mayer, many non-veterinary professionals are sharing their expertise with veterinarians to improve outcomes and pet health care. It's become increasingly common to see massage therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, orthotists, dentists, and Physical Therapists who are working on pets.
Each state has its own regulations in regards to non-veterinarians practicing on animals. Most of the veterinary community emphasizes the need to have the non-veterinarian (certified or not) who practices on animals get a referral from and have supervision from the primary care veterinarian. Veterinary oversight on the premises is the best and safest scenario. Unfortunately, there are some non-veterinary individuals who are practicing on animals without having any formal training and as you can imagine, health issues may go undiagnosed.
If you are seeking services that are not performed by a veterinarian you may want to check with your state’s standards of veterinary medicine. You should also have your primary care veterinarian directly refer you to non-veterinarians so an appropriate medical diagnosis is sought first. You can also check the individual’s credentials and certifications. Doing your research will help you make the safest and most appropriate choices for extended care. The veterinary community is the best advocate for your pets.
