An exploration into the study of the corresponding materia medica regarding trauma of neglect in canines

Abstract

This study explores the trauma of neglect presented by canines. It aims to identify the common signs, symptoms and behaviours exhibited, and subsequently to determine the most indicative homoeopathic remedies. Objectives The primary objective was to determine signs, symptoms and behavioural patterns of trauma exhibited by canines. The secondary objective was to establish the common themes surrounding traumatised canines. Lastly, the third objective was to conduct a reportorial and thematic analysis to deduce the most indicative homoeopathic remedies. Methodology The study was done by means of purposive sampling and snowball sampling from ten suitable research participants. These participants are experienced in the care of neglected and traumatised canines and included members of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), veterinarians, and other animal welfare organisations who met the research criteria. After a brief telephonic conversation to confirm suitability, an appointment was made to meet each participant at a specific animal shelter. Each participant was given a letter with a summary of the study and an informed consent form, which allowed the researcher to observe the canines and interview the participants with probing questions. These interviews were audio recorded. Data was assessed for common themes using Hycner (1985) data explication process. General and unique themes as well as symptom profiles were repertorised by means of various reportorial methods of MacRepertory (Archibel 2014), which helped to identify emerging homoeopathic remedies. Results Data analysis revealed six main themes in traumatised and neglected canines and their correlation to the use of homoeopathic treatment for canines. The results illustrated that canines could benefit from homoeopathic medication to treat physical and mental symptoms, which also lays the foundation for future researchers to further explore this concept