Law & Ethics

Lancaster, Calif. -- Several dog breeds will have to go under the knife in the next few weeks when a municipal law requiring sterilization by breed takes effect.

Brunswick, Ga. - Charged with improperly disposing of two dead horses, citizens spoke up to vindicate this veterinarian.

The prospect of building an all-new practice facility is a daunting one, especially for veterinarians who have not owned a practice before.

National Report - As microchipping becomes more common, veterinarians are questioning their legal liability and ethical obligations in regard to sorting out ownership disputes.

Denver - Colorado lawmakers are considering a bill that would require cat owners in the state' largest cities to microchip or tag.

A veterinary forensics program, under development by ASPCA and the University of Florida, was unveiled this week.

One of the most surprising things I learned in law school was the legal definition of "battery." A similar principle applies to the veterinarian who performs an act on an animal without the permission of its owner.

Several factors determine whether they're subcontractors or employees.

Harrisburg, Pa. - A newly formed nine-member Canine Health Board has just 45 days to establish guidelines.

Harrisburg, Pa. -- The new nine-member Canine Health Board -- made up of veterinarians from the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association and the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical School, as well as Republican and Democratic legislative leaders -- has met for the second time in less than a month to work on guidelines for the recently passed Pennsylvania dog law.

Sacramento -- Increased pet abandonment, euthanasia and public-health problems will be the likely result of the a newly proposed California tax on veterinary services, according to a statement issued today by the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA).

Passage of Prop 2 will mean big changes for California's food-animal industry.

Harrisburg, Pa. - Pennsylvania legislators passed a controversial law aimed at improving conditions for dogs in so-called puppy mills.

Desert Hills, Ariz.- Dr. Joshua Winston spent more than a year fighting to clear his name, which he says has cost him nearly $250,000 and more grief than he cares to recall.

An Ohio veterinarian and his staff fought off a man who burst into the practice claiming to have a bomb.

New York - A Congressional panel earlier this year questioned whether the nation's horse racing industry had the will and ability to regulate itself or whether government intervention would be necessary.

In New York, a dapper bachelor could enlist a dog each Saturday to help him find his date for the night.

I am sure that by now pretty much every veterinary hospital owner is aware that it is important to have an employee handbook or manual for clinic workers.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) urges candidate leadership on several issues.

Washington -- The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Congressional Science Fellows have accepted positions on Capitol Hill, serving in capacities that coincide with their interests and enabling them to provide expertise to Congress, all while serving the veterinary profession.

Washington -- The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is accepting applications for its Congressional Science Fellows.

Washington -- The U.S. Representatives in September heard the introduction of a bill to prohibit the interstate transport of animals used in wildlife penning.

ELLIJAY, GA. - A Georgia couple filed a $75,000 civil suit against an Atlanta veterinary surgeon, and are seeking non-economic damages that could set a precedent in pet-injury cases. Pets are considered personal property in most states, including Georgia.

The debate over limited licensure has many factors.

The psychological pressure imposed on veterinarians to do something ... occasionally is overwhelming.

When I wrote the first half of this article a few months ago, I had no idea how much interest and how many inquiries I would receive on the subject of so-called "policies." Consequently, I thought I would put together the final piece sooner rather than later. I will admit that the subject is a bit complex, and may not be the most enthralling topic in the world. Nonetheless, it is an important one for veterinary practitioners who are concerned about their estates, their surviving relatives and the quality of care they hope to receive as seniors.

Raleigh, N.C. -- North Carolina has a new veterinary medical board member.

Veterinary school and law-school training actually have quite a bit in common. For example, when I finished each, I soon realized just how huge was the volume of practical things I needed to know but did not.

Editor's Note: Understanding consumer behavior can help you as a clinician and business manager. DVM Newsmagazine asked five veterinary market leaders to join this year's DVM Newsmakers' Summit at CVC East in Baltimore. Following is the last of three excerpts from the panel discussion.

Sacramento, Calif. - Municipalities won't be able to ban state-sanctioned medical practices if a proposed bill passes in California.