Practice Provisions - Veterinary Medicine - Business & Professions - CA

Section § 4825

If you want to practice veterinary medicine in California, you must have a current and valid license. Without it, practicing is illegal.

It is unlawful for any person to practice veterinary medicine or any branch thereof in this State unless at the time of so doing, such person holds a valid, unexpired, and unrevoked license as provided in this chapter.

veterinary medicine valid license unexpired

Section § 4825.1

This section defines important terms for veterinary medicine in California. A 'client' is the person who claims to own the animal being treated. 'Diagnosis' is the process of determining an animal's health status. 'Animal' includes all non-human animals, like birds and fish. 'Food animal' refers to animals raised for producing food like milk or meat, such as cattle and poultry. 'Livestock' means animals kept for profit but not pets like cats or dogs. 'Synchronous' involves real-time interactions over a distance, and 'Telehealth' is using electronic communication for veterinary care, including video, audio, and data transfer.

These definitions shall govern the construction of this chapter as it applies to veterinary medicine.

(a) “Client” means the individual or individuals who represent to the veterinarian that they are the owner or owners of the animal patient at the time that the services are provided.

(b) “Diagnosis” means the act or process of identifying or determining the health status of an animal patient through examination and the opinion derived from that examination.

(c) “Animal” means any member of the animal kingdom other than humans, and includes fowl, fish, and reptiles, wild or domestic, whether living or dead.

(d) “Food animal” means any animal that is raised for the production of an edible product intended for consumption by humans. The edible product includes, but is not limited to, milk, meat, and eggs. Food animal includes, but is not limited to, cattle (beef or dairy), swine, sheep, poultry, fish, and amphibian species.

(e) “Livestock” includes all animals, poultry, aquatic and amphibian species that are raised, kept, or used for profit. It does not include those species that are usually kept as pets such as dogs, cats, and pet birds, or companion animals, including equines.

(f) “Synchronous” means a real-time interaction between a client and animal patient with a veterinarian who is licensed in this state and located at a distant site.

(g) “Telehealth” means the mode of delivering veterinary medicine via electronic communication technologies to facilitate the diagnosis, consultation, care management, or treatment of an animal patient, and includes, but is not limited to, synchronous video and audio communication; synchronous, two-way audio communication; and electronic transmission of images, diagnostics, data, and medical information.

veterinary medicine client definition animal definition

Section § 4826

This section explains what activities are considered practicing veterinary medicine in California. It includes claiming to be a vet, diagnosing or prescribing for animals, administering treatments unless under supervision, performing surgery or dental work on animals, diagnosing reproductive conditions in livestock, and collecting animal blood for sale. Using titles or words that suggest veterinary work without being licensed is also covered.

A person practices veterinary medicine, surgery, and dentistry, and the various branches thereof, when the person does any one of the following:

(a) Represents oneself as engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry in any of its branches.

(b) Diagnoses or prescribes a drug, medicine, appliance, application, or treatment of whatever nature for the prevention, cure, or relief of a wound, fracture, bodily injury, or disease of animals.

(c) Administers a drug, medicine, appliance, application, or treatment of whatever nature for the prevention, cure, or relief of a wound, fracture, bodily injury, or disease of animals, except where the medicine, appliance, application, or treatment is administered by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant at the direction of and under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian subject to Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 4836) or where the drug, including, but not limited to, a drug that is a controlled substance, is administered by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant pursuant to Section 4836.1. However, no person, other than a licensed veterinarian, may induce anesthesia unless authorized by regulation of the board.

(d) Performs a surgical or dental operation upon an animal.

(e) Performs any manual procedure for the diagnosis of pregnancy, sterility, or infertility upon livestock or Equidae.

(f) Collects blood from an animal for the purpose of transferring or selling that blood and blood component products to a licensed veterinarian at a registered premises, except where the blood is collected by a registered veterinary technician or veterinary assistant at the direction of, and under the direct supervision of, a licensed veterinarian subject to Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 4836) or where the blood is collected by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant pursuant to Section 4836.5. For purposes of this section, “blood and blood component products” has the same meaning as defined in Section 4920.

(g) Uses any words, letters, or titles in such connection or under such circumstances as to induce the belief that the person using them is engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry. This use shall be prima facie evidence of the intention to represent oneself as engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry.

veterinary medicine animal surgery animal dentistry

Section § 4826.1

This law says that if a veterinarian gives emergency care to a sick or injured animal at an accident scene—whether it's their idea or they're asked by the owner or someone else—they won't be responsible for anything going wrong unless they're extremely careless.

A veterinarian who on his or her own initiative, at the request of an owner, or at the request of someone other than the owner, renders emergency treatment to a sick or injured animal at the scene of an accident shall not be liable in damages to the owner of that animal in the absence of gross negligence.

veterinarian emergency treatment sick or injured animal

Section § 4826.2

This law allows veterinarians and their staff to provide medical care to certain restricted animals, as listed in the Fish and Game Code, without worrying about legal consequences for possessing them temporarily. They don't have to report to law enforcement if they come across restricted animals. However, veterinary care doesn't include merely boarding these animals if no medical treatment is needed.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or a veterinary assistant working under the supervision of a veterinarian, may provide veterinary care and treatment for any animal restricted pursuant to Section 2118 of the Fish and Game Code. A veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or a veterinary assistant working under the supervision of a veterinarian, may lawfully possess one or more of the animals only for the period of time that, in his or her judgment, veterinary care and treatment are necessary. No veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or veterinary assistant working under the supervision of a veterinarian, has a duty to advise law enforcement if he or she becomes aware that one or more of the animals is possessed in the state. For the purposes of this section, “veterinary care and treatment” does not include boarding when no veterinary care or treatment is required.

veterinarian veterinary technician veterinary assistant

Section § 4826.3

Veterinary technicians, assistants, and those with controlled substances permits in California must wear name tags that are easy to read in public areas of veterinary facilities. These tags should display their name and relevant license or permit details. However, they can take off the name tag when they are working directly with animals. This rule started on January 1, 2023.

(a) Notwithstanding any law, a veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, and veterinary assistant controlled substances permitholder registered in this state shall wear a name tag identification in at least 18 point type in any area of the veterinary premises that is accessible to members of the public. The name tag shall include the veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, and veterinary assistant controlled substances permitholder’s name, and, if applicable, the license, registration, or permit type and number issued by the board.

(b) A person subject to the requirement in subdivision (a) may remove the name tag when working with or handling animal patients.

(c) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2023.

veterinary technician veterinary assistant name tag requirement

Section § 4826.4

This law allows California-licensed veterinarians near an emergency area to help animal patients without needing to first establish a standard vet-client relationship. They can provide immediate care and prescribe necessary medication to prevent harm or address severe suffering. The veterinarian must document their actions and reasons, and they are protected from legal liability for these actions during emergencies.

(a) A California-licensed veterinarian at premises registered in accordance with Section 4853 that is located within a 25-mile radius of any condition of emergency specified in Section 8558 of the Government Code may, in good faith, do both of the following in addition to any other acts authorized by law:

(1) Render necessary and prompt care and treatment to an animal patient without establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship if conditions are such that one cannot be established in a timely manner.

(2) Dispense or prescribe a dangerous drug or device, as defined in Section 4022, in reasonable quantities where failure to provide services or medications, including controlled substances, may result in loss of life or intense suffering of the animal patient. Prior to refilling a prescription pursuant to this paragraph, the veterinarian shall make a reasonable effort to contact the originally prescribing veterinarian.

(b) A veterinarian acting under this section shall make an appropriate record that includes the basis for proceeding under this section.

(c) A veterinarian who performs services pursuant to this section shall have immunity from liability pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 8659 of the Government Code.

veterinarian emergency care immediate animal treatment emergency radius

Section § 4826.5

This section states that veterinarians and registered vet techs, under a vet's supervision, can make personalized animal medications by mixing drugs. They must follow federal guidelines and rules set by the veterinary board, which include how the drugs should be stored, how techs should be supervised, and what equipment is needed. Breaking these rules can lead to disciplinary action.

Notwithstanding any other law, a licensed veterinarian or a registered veterinary technician under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian may compound drugs for animal use pursuant to Section 530 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations and in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board. The regulations promulgated by the board shall, at a minimum, address the storage of drugs, the level and type of supervision required for compounding drugs by a registered veterinary technician, and the equipment necessary for the safe compounding of drugs. Any violation of the regulations adopted by the board pursuant to this section shall constitute grounds for an enforcement or disciplinary action.

compounding drugs veterinarian veterinary technician

Section § 4826.6

This law sets rules for veterinarians in California about prescribing and using drugs or treatments for animals, requiring a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. This relationship is when the vet has been authorized by the animal's owner, knows the pet's condition, and has a treatment plan. Vets can examine animals in person or through audio-video calls, but purely audio or questionnaires are not enough to form this relationship. Telehealth is allowed, but vets must meet privacy laws, have the pet's medical history, and be capable of emergency referrals. Prescribing drugs via telehealth has limits, such as no long-term prescriptions without in-person check-ups. Emergency advice via telehealth doesn't require a prior relationship. Only licensed vets in-state can use telehealth for animals in California.

(a) A veterinarian shall not prescribe, dispense, or administer a drug, medicine, application, or treatment of whatever nature for the prevention, cure, or relief of a wound, fracture, bodily injury, or disease of animals unless a veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists or as otherwise permitted by law, except when the animal patient is a wild animal or the owner of the animal patient is unknown. A veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The client has authorized the veterinarian to assume responsibility for medical judgments regarding the health of the animal patient.

(2) The veterinarian possesses sufficient knowledge of the animal patient to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the animal patient’s medical condition.

(3) The veterinarian has assumed responsibility for making medical judgments regarding the health of the animal patient and has communicated with the client a medical, treatment, diagnostic, or therapeutic plan appropriate to the circumstances.

(b) A veterinarian possesses sufficient knowledge of the animal patient for purposes of paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) if the veterinarian has recently seen, or is personally acquainted with, the care of the animal patient by doing any of the following:

(1) Examining the animal patient in person.

(2) Examining the animal patient by use of synchronous audio-video communication.

(3) Making medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises on which the animal patient is kept.

(c) For purposes of paragraphs (1) and (3) of subdivision (a), the client may authorize an agent to act on the client’s behalf.

(d) Synchronous audio-video communication is not required for the delivery of veterinary medicine via telehealth after a veterinarian-client-patient relationship has been established unless the veterinarian determines that it is necessary in order to provide care consistent with prevailing veterinary medical practice.

(e) A veterinarian-client-patient relationship shall not be established solely by audio-only communication or by means of a questionnaire.

(f) Only a person who holds a current license to practice veterinary medicine in this state is authorized to practice veterinary medicine via telehealth on an animal patient located in this state.

(g) Before delivering veterinary medicine via telehealth, the veterinarian shall inform the client about the use and potential limitations of telehealth and obtain consent from the client to use telehealth, including acknowledgment of all of the following:

(1) The same standards of care apply to veterinary medicine services via telehealth and in-person veterinary medical services.

(2) The client has the option to choose an in-person visit from a veterinarian at any time.

(3) The client has been advised how to receive follow-up care or assistance in the event of an adverse reaction to the treatment or in the event of an inability to communicate resulting from technological or equipment failure.

(h) A veterinarian who practices veterinary medicine via telehealth shall do all of the following:

(1) Ensure that the technology, method, and equipment used to provide veterinary medicine services via telehealth comply with all current privacy protection laws.

(2) Have historical knowledge of the animal patient by obtaining and reviewing the animal patient’s relevant medical history, and, if available, medical records. If medical records exist from a previous in-person visit and are available to the client, the client may transmit those records, including any diagnostic data contained therein, to the veterinarian electronically.

(3) Employ sound professional judgment to determine whether using telehealth is an appropriate method for delivering medical advice or treatment to the animal patient and providing quality of care consistent with prevailing veterinary medical practice.

(4) Be familiar with available medical resources, including emergency resources near the animal patient’s location, be able to provide the client with a list of nearby veterinarians who may be able to see the animal patient in person upon the request of the client, and keep, maintain, and make available a summary of the animal patient record, as specified in Section 4855.

(5) Provide the client with the veterinarian’s name, contact information, and license number.

(6) Secure an alternative means of contacting the client if the electronic means is interrupted.

(i)

(1) A veterinarian shall not prescribe a drug for a duration of time that is inconsistent with the medical condition of the animal patient or the type of drug prescribed.

(2) A veterinarian who established the required veterinarian-client-patient relationship by examining the animal patient in person or by making medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises on which the animal patient is kept shall not prescribe a drug for a duration of time that is longer than one year from the date that the veterinarian examined the animal patient in person or visited the premises and prescribed the drug.

(3) Except as provided in paragraphs (4) to (8), inclusive, a veterinarian who practices veterinary medicine via telehealth may order, prescribe, or make available drugs, as defined in Section 11014 of the Health and Safety Code, in accordance with all relevant state and federal regulations.

(4) A veterinarian who established the required veterinarian-client-patient relationship using synchronous audio-video communication shall not prescribe a drug to the animal patient for use for a period longer than six months from the date upon which the veterinarian examined the animal patient or prescribed the drug. The veterinarian shall not issue another prescription to the animal patient for the same drug unless they have conducted another examination of the animal patient, either in person or using telehealth.

(5) A veterinarian who established the required veterinarian-client-patient relationship using synchronous audio-video communication shall not prescribe an antimicrobial drug to the animal patient for a period longer than 14 days of treatment. The veterinarian shall not issue any further antimicrobial drug prescription, including a refill, to treat the condition of the animal patient unless the veterinarian has conducted an in-person examination of the animal patient.

(6) The veterinarian shall not order, prescribe, or make available a controlled substance, as defined in Section 4021, or xylazine, unless the veterinarian has performed an in-person physical examination of the animal patient or made medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises where the animal patient is kept.

(7) The veterinarian shall notify the client that some prescription drugs or medications may be available at a pharmacy and, if requested, the veterinarian shall submit a prescription to a pharmacy that the client chooses.

(8) A veterinarian shall not prescribe via telehealth any drug or medication for use on a horse engaged in racing or training at a facility under the jurisdiction of the California Horse Racing Board pursuant to Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 19400) of Division 8.

(j) As used in this section, “drug” means any controlled substance, as defined in Section 4021, or any dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022.

(k) A veterinarian is permitted to use telehealth without establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship in order to provide advice in an emergency, as defined in Section 4840.5.

veterinarian-client-patient relationship telehealth prescribing drugs

Section § 4826.7

This law allows a licensed veterinarian in California to authorize a registered veterinary technician (RVT) to act on their behalf to give vaccines or medications that prevent or control parasites in animals. The RVT can do this only if the veterinarian is near or can be reached easily. The RVT must follow detailed protocols set by the veterinarian, which include getting the animal's history, examining the animal, and ensuring that the treatment is appropriate. Both the veterinarian and the RVT must document and sign statements about their roles and responsibilities. Any communication with the pet owner must be recorded, and all relevant documentation needs to be kept for at least three years.

(a) For purposes of this section, “veterinarian” means a California licensed veterinarian.

(b) A veterinarian may authorize a registered veterinary technician to act as an agent of the veterinarian for the purpose of establishing the veterinarian-client-patient relationship to administer preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The registered veterinary technician administers preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites in a registered veterinary premises when the veterinarian is physically present at the registered veterinary premises.

(2) If working at a location other than a registered veterinary premises, the registered veterinary technician administers preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites when the veterinarian is in the general vicinity or available by telephone and is quickly and easily available. At this location, the registered veterinary technician shall have equipment and drugs necessary to provide immediate emergency care at a level commensurate with the provision of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites.

(3) The registered veterinary technician examines the animal patient and administers preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites in accordance with written protocols and procedures established by the veterinarian, which shall include, at a minimum, all of the following:

(A) Obtaining the animal patient’s history from the client in order to reasonably ensure that the administration of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites is appropriate.

(B) Data that must be collected by physical examination of the animal patient in order to reasonably ensure that the administration of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites is appropriate.

(C) Information in the patient history or physical examination results that would preclude the administration of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites.

(D) Criteria that would disqualify the animal patient from receiving the preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites.

(E) Vaccination protocols for each animal species for which preventive or prophylactic vaccines are administered, that include, at a minimum, handling and administration of vaccines in accordance with manufacturer label recommendations and what to do in the event of an adverse reaction or other emergency.

(F) Preventative procedures for parasite control for each animal species for which medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites are being administered, which shall include, at a minimum, handling and administration of medications in accordance with manufacturer label recommendations and what to do in the event of an adverse reaction or other emergency.

(G) Documentation of all of the following animal patient information:

(i) Name or initials of the person responsible for entries.

(ii) Name, address, and phone number of the client.

(iii) Name or identity of the animal, herd, or flock.

(iv) Except for herds or flocks, age, sex, breed, species, and color of the animal.

(v) Beginning and ending dates of custody of the animal, if applicable.

(vi) A history or pertinent information as it pertains to each animal, herd, or flock’s medical status.

(vii) Data, including that obtained by instrumentation, from the physical examination.

(viii) Treatment and intended treatment plan, including medications, dosages, route of administration, and frequency of use.

(ix) Diagnosis or assessment before performing a treatment or procedure.

(x) If relevant, a prognosis of the animal’s condition.

(xi) All medications and treatments prescribed and dispensed, including strength, dosage, route of administration, quantity, and frequency of use.

(4) The veterinarian and the registered veterinary technician sign and date a statement containing an assumption of risk by the veterinarian for all acts of the registered veterinary technician related to examining the animal patient and administering preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasite, short of willful acts of animal cruelty, gross negligence, or gross unprofessional conduct on behalf of the registered veterinary technician.

(5) The veterinarian and the registered veterinary technician sign and date a statement containing authorization for the registered veterinary technician to act as the agent of the veterinarian only to establish the veterinarian-client-patient relationship for purposes of administering preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites when acting in compliance with the protocols and procedures specified in paragraph (3), and only until the date the veterinarian terminates authorization for the registered veterinary technician to act as the agent of the veterinarian.

(6)

(A) Before the registered veterinary technician examines or administers any preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites to the animal patient, the registered veterinary technician informs the client verbally or in writing that the registered veterinary technician is acting as an agent of the veterinarian for purposes of administering to the animal patient preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications, as applicable, and provides the veterinarian’s name and license number to the client.

(B) After providing the disclosure specified in subparagraph (A), the registered veterinary technician records in the animal patient’s medical record the verbal or written authorization of the client to proceed with the registered veterinary technician’s examination of the animal patient and administration of the specified vaccine or medication.

(c)

(1) Documentation relating to satisfaction of the requirements of paragraphs (4) and (5) of subdivision (b) shall be retained by the veterinarian for the duration of the registered veterinary technician’s work as an agent of that veterinarian and until three years from the date of the termination of the veterinarian’s relationship with the registered veterinary technician.

(2) Documentation relating to satisfaction of subparagraph (G) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) shall be retained by the veterinarian for a minimum of three years after the animal patient’s last visit.

veterinarian-client-patient relationship registered veterinary technician prophylactic vaccines

Section § 4827

This law states that certain activities related to veterinary medicine can be done without being a licensed vet. For example, you can treat your own animals, help others with their animals if it's free, or do certain tests on poultry used for food. Animal shelter workers who are properly trained can also use euthanasia drugs and give nonprescription and prescription medications to animals without a vet being there, following specific rules. The law also requires shelters to report any serious problems caused by these treatments to the board.

(a) Nothing in this chapter prohibits any person from:

(1) Practicing veterinary medicine as a bona fide owner of one’s own animals. This exemption applies to the following:

(A) The owner’s bona fide employees.

(B) Any person assisting the owner, provided that the practice is performed gratuitously.

(2) Lay testing of poultry by the whole blood agglutination test. For purposes of this section, “poultry” means flocks of avian species maintained for food production, including, but not limited to, chickens, turkeys, and exotic fowl.

(3) Making any determination as to the status of pregnancy, sterility, or infertility upon livestock, equine, or food animals at the time an animal is being inseminated, providing no charge is made for this determination.

(4) Administering sodium pentobarbital for euthanasia of sick, injured, homeless, or surrendered domestic pets or animals without the presence of a veterinarian when the person is an employee of an animal control shelter and its agencies or humane society and has received proper training in the administration of sodium pentobarbital for these purposes.

(5) Providing the following care to animals lawfully deposited with or impounded by a shelter not registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853:

(A) Administering preventative or prophylactic nonprescription vaccinations to the animal pursuant to protocols written by a veterinarian licensed in this state for the purposes of preventing the spread of communicable diseases, without the presence of a veterinarian when the person has received proper training in the administration of the nonprescription preventative or prophylactic vaccinations.

(B) Administering nonprescription medications to the animal pursuant to protocols written by a veterinarian licensed in this state, for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites, including, but not limited to, fleas, ticks, or worms, without the presence of a veterinarian when the person has received proper training in the administration of the nonprescription medications for the control or eradication of those internal or external parasites. A person’s decision to administer these medications shall not be construed to mean the person has made a diagnosis of the animal’s medical condition.

(C) Administering medications prescribed by a veterinarian licensed in the state to the animal without the presence of a veterinarian when the shelter has received a written treatment plan from the licensed veterinarian for that specific animal and has a dispensing protocol in place for the tracking of dispensed prescribed medications and when the person has received proper training in the administration of prescription medications.

(b) For the purposes of paragraph (5) of subdivision (a):

(1) “Proper training” means completing a training curriculum of at least four hours provided by a veterinarian licensed to practice in this state, and includes, but is not limited to, an overview of intake procedures and preventative medicine, recognizing when an animal is required to be seen by a veterinarian, prescription and nonprescription medications, humane animal restraint techniques, vaccination injection methods and procedures, and documentation.

(2) “Shelter” means a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, or humane society shelter that is not registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853.

(c) A shelter providing care to an animal pursuant to this section that is not registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853 shall report to the board any adverse event resulting in significant impairment or death from the care provided, on a form prescribed by the board, including severe injuries, infections, and unintended reactions caused by the incorrect or inappropriate administration of a vaccine or medications.

veterinary medicine exemption bona fide owner employee assistance

Section § 4828

Any veterinarian who works for the state, or is employed by a county, city, corporation, firm, or individual, must have a valid veterinary license from the board.

All veterinarians actually engaged and employed as veterinarians by the state, or a county, city, corporation, firm or individual are practicing veterinary medicine and shall secure a license issued by the board.

veterinarian license veterinary medicine employment

Section § 4829

If you have a license to practice veterinary medicine in California, it stays valid as long as you pay the renewal fee and follow the renewal rules. However, even if you pay, your license can still be suspended or taken away according to certain rules in Article 4 of this chapter.

Any license granted to any person to practice veterinary medicine, or any branch thereof, in this State issued under any preceding act relating to veterinary medicine shall remain in force until the renewal fee becomes due and thereafter so long as the holder complies with the provisions of this chapter relating to the renewal of the license and not otherwise. Notwithstanding the payment of this fee his license at any time may be suspended or revoked as provided in Article 4 of this chapter.

veterinary medicine license renewal suspension

Section § 4829.5

When a vet prescribes a dangerous drug to an animal for the first time, they must offer to talk to the pet's owner about the drug, either verbally, in writing, or by email. This discussion should cover details like the drug's name, how to give it, dosage, therapy duration, possible side effects, any special instructions, what to do if a dose is missed, and any manufacturer warnings. If the owner requests, the vet must also provide written drug information if it's available. Vets can have their assistants handle these talks and paperwork, and they need to note in the animal's records whether the consultation happened or was declined.

(a) Each time a veterinarian initially prescribes, dispenses, or furnishes a dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022, to an animal patient in an outpatient setting, the veterinarian shall offer to provide, verbally, in writing, or by email to the client, a consultation that includes the following information:

(1) The name and description of the dangerous drug.

(2) Route of administration, dosage form, dosage, duration of drug therapy, the duration of the effects of the drug, and the common severe adverse effects associated with the use of a short-acting or long-acting drug.

(3) Any special directions for proper use and storage.

(4) Actions to be taken in the event of a missed dose.

(5) If available, precautions and relevant warnings provided by the drug’s manufacturer, including common severe adverse effects of the drug.

(b) If requested, a veterinarian shall provide drug documentation, if available.

(c) A veterinarian may delegate to a registered veterinary technician or veterinary assistant the task of providing the consultation and drug documentation required by this section.

(d) It shall be noted in the medical record of the animal patient if the consultation described in this section is provided or declined by the client.

veterinarian consultation dangerous drug animal patient

Section § 4830

This law explains situations where veterinarians are exempt from certain licensing requirements in California. It covers veterinarians in the military, those aiding California-licensed vets on specific cases without establishing their own client relationships, and those assisting investigations led by law enforcement or animal control agencies. Also exempt are veterinary students undergoing supervised training, veterinarians working under the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and specific unlicensed government workers following a veterinarian's directions. It allows out-of-state veterinarians to temporarily assist with animal cruelty investigations if local vets aren't available, with conditions for temporary shelters where care is provided.

(a) This chapter does not apply to:

(1) Veterinarians while serving in any armed branch of the military service of the United States or the United States Department of Agriculture while actually engaged and employed in their official capacity.

(2) Veterinarians holding a current, valid license in good standing in another state or country who provide assistance to a California-licensed veterinarian and attend on a specific case. The California-licensed veterinarian shall maintain a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The veterinarian providing the assistance shall not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship with the client by attending the case or at a future time and shall not practice veterinary medicine, open an office, appoint a place to meet patients, communicate with clients who reside within the limits of this state, give orders, or have ultimate authority over the care or primary diagnosis of a patient that is located within this state.

(3) Veterinarians called into the state by a law enforcement agency or animal control agency pursuant to subdivision (b).

(4) A student of a veterinary medical program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education who participates as part of the student’s formal curriculum in the diagnosis and treatment with direct supervision by a California-licensed veterinarian, or in surgery with immediate supervision by a California-licensed veterinarian, provided all of the following requirements are met:

(A) The clinical training site has been approved by the university where the student is enrolled.

(B) The student has prior training in diagnosis, treatment, and surgery as part of the formal curriculum.

(5) A veterinarian who is employed by the Meat and Poultry Inspection Branch of the California Department of Food and Agriculture while actually engaged and employed in the veterinarian’s official capacity. A person exempt under this paragraph shall not otherwise engage in the practice of veterinary medicine unless the person is issued a license by the board.

(6) Unlicensed personnel employed by the Department of Food and Agriculture or the United States Department of Agriculture when in the course of their duties they are directed by a veterinarian supervisor to conduct an examination, obtain biological specimens, apply biological tests, or administer medications or biological products as part of government disease or condition monitoring, investigation, control, or eradication activities.

(b)

(1) For purposes of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a), a regularly licensed veterinarian in good standing who is called from another state by a law enforcement agency or animal control agency, as defined in Section 31606 of the Food and Agricultural Code, to attend to cases that are a part of an investigation of an alleged violation of federal or state animal fighting or animal cruelty laws within a single geographic location shall be exempt from the licensing requirements of this chapter if the law enforcement agency or animal control agency determines that it is necessary to call the veterinarian in order for the agency or officer to conduct the investigation in a timely, efficient, and effective manner. In determining whether it is necessary to call a veterinarian from another state, consideration shall be given to the availability of veterinarians in this state to attend to these cases. An agency, department, or officer that calls a veterinarian pursuant to this subdivision shall notify the board of the investigation.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, a regularly licensed veterinarian in good standing who is called from another state to attend to cases that are a part of an investigation described in paragraph (1) may provide veterinary medical care for animals that are affected by the investigation with a temporary shelter facility, and the temporary shelter facility shall be exempt from the registration requirement of Section 4853 if all of the following conditions are met:

(A) The temporary shelter facility is established only for the purpose of the investigation.

(B) The temporary shelter facility provides veterinary medical care, shelter, food, and water only to animals that are affected by the investigation.

(C) The temporary shelter facility complies with Section 4854.

(D) The temporary shelter facility exists for not more than 60 days, unless the law enforcement agency or animal control agency determines that a longer period of time is necessary to complete the investigation.

(E) Within 30 calendar days upon completion of the provision of veterinary health care services at a temporary shelter facility established pursuant to this section, the veterinarian called from another state by a law enforcement agency or animal control agency to attend to a case shall file a report with the board. The report shall contain the date, place, type, and general description of the care provided, along with a listing of the veterinary health care practitioners who participated in providing that care.

(c) For purposes of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a), the board may inspect temporary facilities established pursuant to this section.

veterinarian licensing exemption California-licensed veterinarian veterinarian-client-patient relationship

Section § 4830.5

This law requires licensed professionals who suspect a dog has been hurt or killed in an organized animal fight to inform the local law enforcement immediately. The law protects these professionals from being sued for reporting these incidents, as well as other animal cruelty violations related to specific Penal Code sections.

(a) If a licensee under this chapter has reasonable cause to believe that a dog has been injured or killed through participation in a staged animal fight, as prescribed in Section 597b of the Penal Code, it is the duty of the licensee to promptly report that fact to the appropriate law enforcement authorities of the county, city, or city and county in which the fight occurred.

(b) A licensee shall not incur any civil liability as a result of making any report pursuant to this section or as a result of making any report of a violation of Section 596, subdivision (a) or (b) of Section 597, or Section 597b, former Section 597f, Section 597g, 597n, 597.1, or 597.5 of the Penal Code.

dog fighting animal cruelty staged animal fight

Section § 4830.7

If someone holding a license under this chapter suspects an animal in their care has been abused or cruelly treated, they must report it to the local police or authorities. They won't be sued for reporting the abuse.

Whenever any licensee under this chapter has reasonable cause to believe an animal under its care has been a victim of animal abuse or cruelty, as prescribed in Section 597 of the Penal Code, it shall be the duty of the licensee to promptly report it to the appropriate law enforcement authorities of the county, city, or city and county in which it occurred. No licensee shall incur any civil liability as a result of making any report pursuant to this section or as a result of making any report of a violation of subdivisions (a), (b), and (c) of Section 597 of the Penal Code.

animal abuse reporting veterinary duty reasonable cause

Section § 4830.8

If you're a vet at a rodeo, you need to report any animal injury that requires treatment to the board within 48 hours. Other vets who later treat a rodeo injury have seven days to report it. The report needs details like the event's date and location, the animal's injury, and who the vets were. The board has an online form to help with this.

(a) An attending or on-call veterinarian at a rodeo event shall, pursuant to Section 596.7 of the Penal Code, report to the board any animal injury at the event requiring veterinary treatment within 48 hours of the conclusion of the rodeo.

(b) A veterinarian, other than a veterinarian identified in subdivision (a), shall report to the board within seven days of rendering treatment to an animal for an injury that the veterinarian knows occurred at a rodeo event.

(c) A report submitted pursuant to this section shall include the title, location, and date of the rodeo event, the name of the attending veterinarian at the event, the name of the reporting veterinarian, the type of animal, and a brief description of the injury suffered by the animal. The board shall post a form on its Internet Web site to be used by veterinarians for purposes of submitting this report.

(d) For purposes of this section, “rodeo” has the same meaning set forth in Section 596.7 of the Penal Code.

rodeo veterinarian animal injury report veterinary treatment

Section § 4831

If someone breaks the rules in this chapter or helps someone else to do so, they're committing a minor crime. If they're caught and found guilty, they could face a fine between $500 and $2,000, spend 30 days to a year in county jail, or both.

Any person, who violates or aids or abets in violating any of the provisions of this chapter, is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500), nor more than two thousand dollars ($2,000), or by imprisonment in a county jail for not less than 30 days nor more than one year, or by both the fine and imprisonment.

misdemeanor violation aids in violating punishment

Veterinary Medicine

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