Law & Ethics

Make sure these areas are covered to keep your team members safe.

Americans are traditionally comfortable with the laws that prohibit them from taking certain actions such as expectorating in public or conducting insider trading in private.

After a recent talk I gave in Las Vegas, a veterinarian came up to the podium and told me she'd been considering applying to law school.

Answer choice for the image quiz: A Labrador with PU/PD and hepatomegaly (sponsored by Dechra)

Abdominal hemorrhage can result from disruption of a "blood" organ such as the liver or spleen, damage or avulsion of an abdominal artery or vein, or coagulation defect. The presence of blood in the abdomen can result in acute and severe pain from the abdominal cavity, abdominal organs or the nerves, muscles, fascia or skin associated with the abdomen.

Crisp County, Ga. - A three-month marijuana distribution investigation came to a close Feb. 9 when law enforcement officials found 20 marijuana plants in Dr. Ronal Lee Wilkie's Arabi, Ga., clinic, plus another 80 in his home.

Find out what the 2010 Tax Relief Act means for you and your veterinary practice.

National Report - A new study by the American Society for the pRevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that only 19 percent of law enforcement officers are trained in handling crimes against animals, even though 78 percent acknowledge there is a link between animal abuse and other violent crimes.

Topeka, Kan. - More than 1,000 dogs were euthanized as a last resort to thwart a canine distemper virus (CDV) outbreak at a USDA-licensed Kansas kennel, reports Dr. Bill Brown, Kansas' Livestock Commissioner.

Austin, Texas -- Legislation in the Texas House of Representatives would waive confidentiality privileges for clients who are delinquent in paying for veterinary services.

National Report - As more and more municipalities consider replacing "pet owner" with "pet guardian" in their animal laws, veterinarians and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) say the change is bad for business.

Jefferson City, Mo. -- A bill to repeal Missouri?s contested Proposition B already has been pre-filed in the state Senate for consideration in the new year.

Cites policy on responsible use of animals in studies that benefit animal, human welfare.

I just finished organizing all of my miscellaneous old car parts.

After experiencing the loss of his own pet, one DVM is fighting to change compensation laws.

Learn how new healthcare laws mean big changes for your veterinary practice.

Tethering or restraining dogs in an inhumane fasion will soon become a crime in Louisiana.

Kansas City -- Of all the regulatory issues veterinarians face, the use and storage of controlled substances can be the most contentious.

There's more at stake than a fine when you mishandle client and employee information

This business entity can protect your personal assets - and it's easy and inexpensive to organize for your veterinary practice

Portland, Ore. -- A former chief of staff at a Banfield hospital in Oregon filed suit against the corporate veterinary practice, claiming unlawful workplace discrimination and wrongful termination.

New Orleans -- The Big Easy is is taking a hard line on irresponsible pet ownership, according to a new ordinance recently enacted by its city council.

Walk through a TV drama plot and see how your fate mirrors doctors on the small screen.

National Report -- Lawmakers in Rhode Island, California and Louisiana are considering registries to keep tabs on people convicted of animal abuse.

Washington, D.C. -- Federal legislators introduced a bill that would formally establish a chief veterinary officer position at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Washington -- The sale of videos depicting animal cruelty and torture for entertainment purposes no longer is illegal, according to a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Boston -- Devocalizing a dog or cat without medical cause will be a felony in Massachusetts if Gov. Deval Patrick signs a newly presented bill into law.

Lafayette, Colo. - Sometimes controversy comes in small packages.