Paw’s Corner: Keeping vets accountable

Wed., Nov. 15, 2006

Sam Mazzotta King Features Syndicate

Dear Paw’s Corner: Earlier this year, a kitten I had adopted died while undergoing a fairly simple procedure at the veterinarian’s office. I have not been able to get a satisfactory explanation as to why “Jessie” died. The vet’s story and the assistant’s story don’t even match. Who can I turn to for help on this? — Darla S., Palm Bay, Fla.

Dear Darla: While I was pondering how best to guide you on the search for answers to Jessie’s tragic death, I received information about an organization formed to address this situation and others like it.

Protect the Pets is a grassroots movement, launched by a Connecticut veterinarian, that “seeks to raise awareness about the realities of unsafe veterinary medicine and to inspire veterinary professionals to practice according to the values that drew them to animal medicine in the first place.” Dr. John Robb has introduced a Pets Code of Conduct that professionals can follow, and offers information to pet owners on what to look for in a veterinary practice.

You may also take direct action against the veterinarian. Each state has a veterinary licensing board, and most counties have a veterinary medical association; complaints can be filed with them. Government offices are usually listed in a blue pages section of your telephone book, or you can look up the information online. The American Veterinary Medical Association ( www.avma.org) and the American Animal Hospital Association ( www.healthypet.com) also provide avenues for action.

It is also possible to take legal action. The Animal Legal Defense Fund ( www.aldf.org) provides information on how to pursue a veterinary malpractice case, and where to find an attorney that specializes in such cases.

Please accept my condolences on the loss of Jessie, and I wish you best of luck in your search for answers from this veterinarian.

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