Missouri physical therapists still need veterinary supervision, legislature says

JEFFERSON CITY, MO.— The Missouri Legislature did not pass any of the proposed changes to the law that would have permitted physical therapists to treat animals without veterinary supervision.

The Missouri Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA), board members, board of governors and invited guests met July 11 to discuss the issue and prepare for a potential round two with physical therapists.

"We have a legislative strategy in place in case this issue is presented again," says Richard Antweiler, executive director of MVMA.

Current law says veterinarians must at least have indirect supervision of physical therapists working on animals, Antweiler says.

"The veterinarian has to be in the immediate area and in audible/visual contact at the time the physical therapy is taking place," Antweiler says.

Nothing has been heard from physical therapists in response to the lawmakers' decision, he says.