While veterinarians enjoy practicing their healthcare craft on animals, it isn't always a walk in the park. There are a myriad of rules and regulations they must follow, including official documentation for procedures, storing medications in proper places, and ensuring they're up to date on continuing education requirements. Moreover, the licensing board's rules apply to any place the licensee practices, not just in a business park office, especially if veterinarians work on the road or out of their homes.

Veterinarian Alleged to Have Undertaken Grotesque Treatment of Animals

A Wisconsin veterinarian had their licensing suspended following an investigation into the illegal sale of hundreds of puppies and allegations of pet surgery performed on the vet's kitchen island. The Wisconsin Veterinary Examining Board (VEB) asserted it has been looking into the issues for at least three years, with claims that the veterinarian's “clinic” was their residential home. According to inspectors, a visit to the vet's home revealed “no heat or running water, and an unlocked food pantry” where the accused “stored veterinary medications and controlled substances.” Moreover, they admitted to performing surgery and euthanasia on a kitchen island with non-sterile instruments and even inside vehicles.

State authorities charged the veterinarian with unprofessional conduct. Allegations range from failing to maintain a sanitary clinic and equipment, failing to secure controlled substances, and issuing multiple improperly completed documents in violation of state regulations. The board suspended the veterinarian's license to “protect the public's health, safety, and welfare.”

How Wisconsin Manages Veterinarian Complaints

When complaints are levied against veterinarians in Wisconsin, the VEB will assign an investigator to the matter. They will contact the parties involved, including any witnesses, to gather facts, potential evidence, and any testimony given. Afterward, the VEB screening committee will assist the disciplinary counsel and the case advisor in drafting communications and resolutions between the complainant and the respondent.

The screening committee decides whether there is evidence of a violation of state rules and regulations and may further investigate the matter if necessary. The case advisor will recommend specific actions, which are then reviewed by the disciplinary counsel, who contacts the respondent or their legal representative to come to a negotiated settlement.

While states manage complaints against veterinarians slightly differently, all take grievances seriously. Not every license suspension or disciplinary action from state boards involves such extreme allegations. Sometimes, even forgetting to clean a thermometer before returning it to an equipment cabinet can land veterinarians in trouble with their licensing threatened.

What Should You Do When Your Veterinarian License Is Threatened?

No matter the complaint or incident, you have the opportunity to gain experienced help and representation to defend yourself against actions from state licensing boards. You've worked hard to gain a veterinarian's license with years of schooling and tens of thousands of dollars in tuition and continuing education fees. Protect your future are call a team well-versed in cases that threaten professional licenses.

Get in touch with a team that has assisted thousands in maintaining their medical credentials and good standing with state and jurisdictional licensing boards. Contact the Lento Law Firm online or call 888-535-3686 to maintain your career and reputation.