Arkansas lawmakers consider big changes to veterinary practice act

LITTLE ROCK, ARK. — Arkansas lawmakers are considering multiple exemptions that would officially allow non-DVMs to perform procedures like castration and dehorning of agricultural animals.

House bills 1763, 1055 and 1712 call for veterinary practice act exemptions for castrating, deworming, dehorning, tail docking and vaccinating agricultural animals.

Equine teeth floating (without the use of sedatives) would be allowed for lay dentists, but a certification program would be required. Other tasks including acupuncture, chiropractic and veterinary dentistry on various farm animals would be permitted under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

The bills were introduced through February and March and are still under review.