We get this question often - owners ask for clarification as to why their pet needs a health examination before receiving a vaccine, prescription, or other health services. Per Oregon law, a licensed veterinarian must have a valid Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship in order to provide veterinary services.
What is a
Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship?
A
Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship is established when a licensed
veterinarian has physically examined your pet and established a general or
preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal. In addition, the
veterinarian must have seen the animal within the last year and is personally
acquainted with the care of the animal.
So why does my pet need to be seen each time they need a vaccine if you’ve already seen them within the year?
Vaccinating
an unhealthy animal may exacerbate the animal’s ill-health or the vaccine may
be ineffective. This is why we need to see your pet back for a progress
examination after any illness before administering vaccinations. These thorough
examinations include; checking the pets temperature, weight, body condition,
ears, eyes, nose, oral cavity, skin, abdomen, lymph nodes, and muscular
skeletal system which help determine your pet's overall health.
A
good comparison would be, when we as humans receive vaccinations, we are asked
how we are feeling and often get our temperature taken and weight checked. We
are able to vocalize when we are not feeling well, but since animals are not
able to do so an examination with a licensed veterinarian is important. You
would certainly not want to receive the flu shot while you have the flu!
It’s
also important to note that animals age far faster than humans and annual and
bi-annual examinations can help detect health issues that owner’s often do not
notice.
Pearl
Animal Hospital greatly values your pet’s health and safety. Maintaining a good
Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship is key to your pet's health and well
being.
For more information, please
visit:
Written by: Cheryl Latta - Office Manager
