Author Archives: skeptvet

What Do Holistic Vets Say About Science and Evidence-based Medicine?

Posted on March 23, 2015 by skeptvet

I’ve written several times about how proponents of alternative therapies appear to view science and evidence-based medicine. (1, 2, 3)  I think it is critical in evaluating these practices, as pet owners or  veterinarians, to understand the philosophy and approach … Continue reading →

Posted in General | 10 Comments

Evidence Update- Neutering and Cancer Risk in Danish Dogs

Posted on March 13, 2015 by skeptvet

One of the “hot topics” in veterinary medicine right now is the balance of risk and benefits to neutering. Even though I completed an extensive review of this subject in 2010, and updated it just last year, the new evidence … Continue reading →

Posted in Science-Based Veterinary Medicine | 10 Comments

Longevity & Causes of Death in Pet Cats

Posted on March 9, 2015 by skeptvet

Basic epidemiological research, identifying the most common diseases and causes of death and risk factors for these, is the foundation of preventative medicine. Unfortunately, such research is often scarce in veterinary medicine. Collecting data on a large population of animals … Continue reading →

Posted in Science-Based Veterinary Medicine | 41 Comments

What You Know that Ain’t Necessarily So: Antibiotics, Endocarditis, & Dentistry

Posted on March 4, 2015 by skeptvet

I recently gave a lecture at the Western Veterinary Conference called “What You Know that Ain’t Necessarily So.” The purpose of this was to take some common or controversial beliefs and practices in veterinary medicine and discuss the scientific evidence … Continue reading →

Posted in General | 2 Comments

Jimmy Kimmel Gets Hate Mail (I feel your pain, Jimmy)

Posted on March 4, 2015 by skeptvet

I review my own hate mail here from time to time (I’m actually overdue for another summary, so stay tuned). I totally get what Jimmy’s dealing with here!    

Posted in Humor | Leave a comment

Jimmy Kimmel–oh, and some Doctors–Talk About Vaccination

Posted on March 4, 2015 by skeptvet

I think we need a veterinary version of this video. Who’s with me?!    

Posted in Humor | 37 Comments

Can Your Vet Diagnose a Seizure from Your Home Video?

Posted on March 4, 2015 by skeptvet

The age of ubiquitous cell phone cameras is upon us, and it appears to be double-edged sword. On the one hand, moments historically understood to be private can, often without the participants’ permission, become worldwide entertainment. On the other hand, … Continue reading →

Posted in Science-Based Veterinary Medicine | 3 Comments

What You Know that Ain’t Necessarily So: Vaccination & Autoimmune Diseases

Posted on March 1, 2015 by skeptvet

I recently gave a lecture at the Western Veterinary Conference called “What You Know that Ain’t Necessarily So.” The purpose of this was to take some common or controversial beliefs and practices in veterinary medicine and discuss the scientific evidence … Continue reading →

Posted in General | 7 Comments

The Best Acupuncture Study EVER!

Posted on February 28, 2015 by skeptvet

I have previously discussed in detail the reasons why, despite a fairly large and often positive research literature, I believe the evidence is strong that acupuncture works almost entirely as a placebo. Shortly after posting my most recent discussion of … Continue reading →

Posted in Acupuncture | 6 Comments

What You Know that Ain’t Necessarily So: Pre-anesthetic Bloodwork in Dogs & Cats

Posted on February 25, 2015 by skeptvet

I recently gave a lecture at the Western Veterinary Conference called “What You Know that Ain’t Necessarily So.” The purpose of this was to take some common or controversial beliefs and practices in veterinary medicine and discuss the scientific evidence … Continue reading →

Posted in General | 19 Comments