PAGE 5

Page 5

The AVMA considers it the responsibility of the veterinarian to report such cases to appropriate authorities, whether or not reporting is mandated by law. Disclosure of abuse is necessary to protect the health and welfare of animals and people. Veterinarians should be aware that accurate record keeping and documentation of these cases are essential. The AVMA considers it the responsibility of the veterinarian to educate clients regarding humane care and treatment of animals. Additionally, the American Animal Hospital Association supports the implementation of mandatory reporting laws for veterinarians, provided client education had been attempted and only when the laws explicitly exempt veterinarians from civil and criminal liability for reporting. Despite this encouragement from the AVMA and the American Animal Hospital Association, many veterinarians have reservations about reporting animal cruelty. One study found that almost all veterinarians (93.6%) believe that they have an ethical responsibility to report suspicions of abuse, but far fewer (44.5%) feel that they should be mandated to report suspected animal cruelty. Reasons for this apprehension typically included uncertainty with their ability to recognize animal abuse, dread of potential litigation, fear of losing clients, doubt that action will be taken after a report is made, and concerns with breaching client confidentiality. Veterinary practice acts vary from state to state, with some states having no mention of reporting responsibilities or immunity, leaving many veterinarians unsure of their role in cases of suspected animal abuse. Although some veterinarians believe that reporting of animal abuse is consistent with the veterinarian’s oath to prevent animal suffering, some veterinarians argue that mandatory reporting “expects too much of DVMs who … receive too little training to identify animal abuse.” Likewise, Dr. Gary Patronek explains that “veterinary students are unlikely to encounter many cases of neglect and abuse during their training, and they are even less likely to be exposed to the procedures for reporting a case.” The lack of training and limited exposure to animal cruelty cases contribute to the uncertainty veterinarians feel toward reporting suspicions of animal abuse. We believe, therefore, that providing veterinary students with training on recognizing and reporting animal cruelty will increase their comfort level with reporting suspected animal abuse. The Veterinarian’s Role in Animal Cruelty Cases Veterinarians fill critical roles in the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases. They act as reporters of suspected abuse, medical examiners during the investigation, and expert witnesses during the trial. As one of few persons likely to interact with an abused animal, the veterinarian is in a unique position to witness and identify animal abuse.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7