Animals are legal property of their owner. As such, the owner chooses the level of veterinary care that the animal receives. This may create legal, ethical, and financial dilemmas for the client and veterinarian. When providing care options within the spectrum, a veterinarian is still required to satisfy the standard of care which is defined as the minimum level of acceptable care. This definition is not absolute nor consistent and does not equate to standards of practice. A veterinarian’s conduct may be reviewed in a civil suit for malpractice or by a state veterinary medical board in a license discipline action. While these processes differ both will evaluate the level of care provided. Veterinarians that offer a range of care options need to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements to include competency, appropriate client communication, and medical record-keeping while supporting the human animal bond.
BOOK Title: Chapter #: "Will the Spectrum of Care Meet the Standard of Care?"
