WATCVM Mission

The World Association of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine supports the research, education, and practice of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine worldwide.

Objectives

• Fund scientific research to generate new knowledge of traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM)
• Advocate the practice of TCVM worldwide through outreach and community support programs
• Support our members through educational resources and networking opportunities
• Provide TCVM educational funding for veterinarians in developing countries

Frequently Asked Questions

What is traditional Chinese veterinary medicine?

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine is a medical system rooted in Chinese Daoist philosophy that has been used for thousands of years in China to treat animals. It is an adaptation and extension of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is applied for human healthcare.

What are the four branches of TCVM?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique that stimulates specific points in the body by inserting specialized needles, typically along Meridian Channels where Qi flows. While most acupuncture points and Meridian lines for animals are adapted from humans, there are also valuable species-specific "classical points" with roots in ancient practices.

Herbal Medicine utilizes herbal ingredients listed within the Chinese Herbal Materia Medica to treat specific disease patterns. Herbal formulas are administered orally, typically as a powder or liquid tincture.

Food Therapy is the use of diet to treat and prevent imbalance within the body. This therapy utilizes knowledge of the energetics of food ingredients to tailor diets for individual animals.

Tui-na is a form of Chinese medical massage in which different manipulations are applied to acupoints and Meridians to promote the circulation of Qi and correct imbalances within the organ systems.

How does TCVM differ from Western medicine?

In TCVM, disease is seen as an imbalance in the body, diagnosed by identifying underlying patterns of disharmony. Unlike Western medicine, TCVM considers an animal's temperament, sex, age, activity, and environment alongside disease signs. This practice emphasizes a holistic or “whole patient” approach that views the body as a system of interconnected forces and functions.

How do I become a WATCVM member?

Go to the Membership tab and select Become a Member. Annual membership fees are just $85 to access a whole library of resources and join an amazing veterinary community! Payments can be made with a credit card via PayPal or Stripe with an easy annual renewal option. Visit watcvm.org/membership/join or contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.