In memory and honor of one very special cat.. how Edward J. Nichols, DVM, Crestway Animal Clinic, San Antonio, Texas, treated Suki. Read Suki's Story.
For details on the lawsuit that this QUACK Ed Nichols, Crestway Animal Clinic, filed on me in an attempt to silence me from telling what happened to Suki at Crestway Animal Clinic, see the timeline
For the Texas Board investigation of Ed Nichols, Crestway Animal Clinic, see the allegations here
This is an independent consumer advocacy site and not associated with any state licensing board or regulatory agency in any way.
Do you need to file a
complaint against a veterinarian?
Start here.
Welcome
This site was originally established in 2000 as a way to educate the public about protecting their pets in a veterinary care setting; to monitor conduct by state licensing boards who allow known or suspected violators of the Veterinary Practice Act to remain unaccountable for their actions; to provide links to public record, media coverage, and resources on this subject; and to let animal guardians who have lost their pets under tragic circumstances know that they are not alone.
OUR MISSION: TO EXPOSE INCOMPETENT VETS WHO ARE PROTECTED BY STATE BOARD, CRIMINAL, AND CIVIL COURT SYSTEMS EVEN WHEN THERE IS EVIDENCE OF WRONGDOING, MALPRACTICE, INCOMPETENCE, AND NEGLIGENCE. AND TO EXPOSE THE STATE BOARDS THAT PROTECT THEM.
This site and the people connected with it do not stand alone. There are growing numbers of consumers across the country who are committed to the exposure not only of incompetent veterinarians, but also of the state boards that protect them.
I stand by all original material on this site. It is protected under freedom of speech, the First Amendment, and the greatest protection of all -- the TRUTH.
This flame shines in memory of all of our beloved animal companions who were harmed or killed by veterinarians, whether through incompetence, negligence, malpractice, apathy, or cruelty.
We will never forget.
We will never be silenced.
This is an independent consumer advocacy site and not associated with any state licensing board or regulatory agency in any way.
If you haven't yet done so, please read our Mission Statement
April 26, 2009
Ten years.
*
more
From Suki's Story:
"Here is what I get to live with for the rest of my life: Edward J. Nichols, DVM, putting Suki into an induction box where she had to inhale halothane and nitrous oxide while I knew nothing about it. Ed Nichols extracting a tooth without my permission or even having the simple human decency to inform me of anything he was doing to her. Ed Nichols not giving Suki IV fluids after recording “v. dehydrated” on her chart. The unbearable and eternal agony of now knowing Suki lay dying, dehydrated in a cage, at Crestway Animal Clinic, while I had no idea at the time. And these horrifying events are only the tip of the iceberg.
And finally, the most bone-chilling knowledge of all: Had Suki not lived long enough to be seen by second opinion vets, I would have never known what had been happening. I must repeat this so you understand: Had Suki died at any time at Crestway Animal Clinic, at home with me, or during the four weeks of March 22 and April 19, 1999, before I got her to other vets – I would have never known what really happened to Suki. As it is, I will never really know how much she might have suffered, but I do know that my grief and pain will never end.Don’t ever lull yourself into thinking that
this can’t happen to you. I would have said the same thing before I was
forced to live through this nightmare.
My only hope is that
Suki’s Story helps somebody reading these words.
If only one pet guardian learns something from what happened here,
if only one animal is helped by any of this, if only one veterinarian
makes the ethical choice to treat our companions as the family members
that they are, then my brave and beautiful Suki did not die in vain."
Truth is [justice’s] handmaid, freedom is its child, peace is its companion, safety walks in its steps, victory follows in its train... - Sydney Smith
The time will come when men such as I will look upon the murder of animals as they now look on the murder of men. - Leonardo da Vinci
The truth is as impossible to be soiled by any outward touch as the sunbeam – John Milton
August 5, 1979 - April 26, 1999
Do you need to file a
complaint against a veterinarian?
Start here.
Texas Residents: Do you know your veterinarian's disciplinary record? CHECK HERE!
Mesquite, Texas--Citizen advocate Greg Munson of Mesquite, Texas, has compiled a complete listing of all disciplinary actions taken against veterinarians in Texas. The listing can be viewed at http://texasveterinaryrecords.110mb.com
Just because their name isn't on there doesn't mean there isn't a problem -- 92 PERCENT of ALL malpractice complaints against Texas vets are DISMISSED. Just like Suki's was, in spite of all the evidence.
THE
LAWSUIT
January 2009 - LAWSUIT FINALLY OVER
For details on the lawsuit that this QUACK Ed Nichols, Crestway Animal Clinic, filed on me in an attempt to silence me from telling what happened to Suki at Crestway Animal Clinic, see the timeline
Ed Nichols, Crestway Animal Clinic, and his lawyer Ann Comerio FAILED in their attempts to dismantle this web site or get any type of injunction against me.
Edward J. Nichols, owner of Crestway Animal Clinic, San Antonio, FAILED to get any type of injunction against me or my site in ANY WAY after my nearly three-year battle against him to protect my First Amendment rights. I hope he spent a bloody fortune coming after me, and for what? The judge ruled back on July 28, 2005, that there was "no legal impediment to maintain her web page," and yet Nichols WOULD NOT STOP his legal onslaught against me.
But in the end Ed Nichols showed his true color -- YELLOW. And now his unconscionable legal attacks on me are over FOREVER.
On July 21, 2005, Edward J. Nichols, DVM, Crestway Animal Clinic, San Antonio, Texas, filed a lawsuit against me, the owner of this site, seeking a permanent injunction to dismantle vetabusenetwork.com and enjoin me from expressing my opinions about him and his treatment of Suki.
Nichols FAILED to get an injunction against me or this site (see order denying injunction here)
Nichols FAILED AGAIN on appeal (see 4th Court of Appeals decision here)
After 2 1/2 years of litigation by Nichols, this matter was set for trial on March 10, 2008.
A settlement announcement was made in Bexar County District Court. Neither Ed Nichols nor his lawyer Ann Comerio appeared in open court for the settlement announcement, and
ED NICHOLS' CASE AGAINST ME WAS DISMISSED WITH FINALITY ON MARCH 10, 2008.
FINALLY, in January 2009 a signed copy of the settlement agreement with Nichols' signature on it was presented to me for co-signature ten months after his case against me was dismissed by the court. May Ed Nichols ROT IN HELL for what he put Suki, and then what he put ME and MY FAMILY through with a legal nightmare that started in July 2005 with an attempt to get a temporary (unconstitutional) injunction to silence me from telling the TRUTH and to try to get a permanent (unconstitutional) injunction against me.
Neither Suki nor I did anything to deserve this bag o'scum in our lives, and I will spend the rest of my life shouting from the rooftops what he did first to Suki, and then to me.
I can't say it often enough - may Ed Nichols, this "nice guy," rot in hell. And should this stupid, arrogant son of a bitch be brain-dead enough to come after me again with his Keystone Cops team of bottom-feeding lawyers, I will fight even louder and longer to defend my First Amendment rights against what is without a doubt the most repulsive, ignorant, incompetent dirtbag I've ever had the misfortune to meet.
I will NEVER forget. And I will NEVER be silenced.
Founder, vetabusenetwork.com
Here is a wonderful quote found by my friend and fellow citizen advocate Greg Munson. Thought I would pass it along for anybody who is fighting the good fight for justice and against corrupt systems that protect the wealthy and powerful. Thanks to everyone who "sends forth a tiny ripple of hope." -- JC
Each time a person stands for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he or she sends forth a tiny ripple of hope. And crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance. Few are willing to embrace the disapproval of their fellows, the censure of their colleagues, the wrath of their society. Moral courage is a rarer commodity than bravery in battle or great intelligence. Yet it is the one essential vital quality for those who seek to change a world that yields most painfully to change. --Robert F. Kennedy
Media Coverage of vetabusenetwork.com in Texas
KSAT-12 in San Antonio Asks "Who's Vetting Your Vet?"
"Vets are getting away with murder, basically..." Greg Munson. advocate, Mesquite, TX
San Antonio--ABC affiliate KSAT-12 aired an investigative piece on Tuesday, November 18, entitled "Vetting Your Vet." Reported by April Molina, the Defenders segment focused on pet owners trying to make changes at the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Advocates Greg Munson (www.stempy.net) and Julie Catalano, founder of vetabusenetwork.com were interviewed, along with Dewey Helmcamp, executive director of the state board.
Related:
2007 - Watch CBS 11's anchor Tracy Rowlett's two-part investigative series on KTVT-TV, Dallas/Fort Worth:
Pet
Owners Claim Vet Malpractice Killed Dogs/Pet Owners Fight for Better
Animal Health Care (Dallas/Fort Worth), cbs11tv.com, March 21-22, 2007
(Interview with Greg Munson, Julie Catalano, Jack Wolfson, Janie Carpenter
DVM
2004 - The Power of Forgiving, Lisa Collier Cool, Reader's Digest, May 2004 (Interview with Julie Catalano)
A STATE OF DISGRACE:
Is the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners Really Protecting
the Public?
March 3, 2009 - News from Across the Pond
ITV Goes Undercover in Documentary to Air on March 9
Nearly half of all British households have a pet – with the favourite being the loveable pooch. Watch an ITV special that sends undercover reporters to visit various vets.
From www.itv.com:
The programme meets one devoted pet owner that
has paid £15,000 for treatments for her dog (only £4,000 of which was covered
by pet insurance) and we reveal how she is paying a 250 per cent mark-up on
medication sold to her by her vet.
And the programme interviews the victims of a
vet, and the nurse that testified against him, who was struck off after being
found guilty of five charges of disgraceful professional conduct. He attempted
the make false insurance claims, charged pet owners for work he never did, and
evidence emerged of poor treatment.
But in May last year, the same vet was reinstated and can now practice again.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has the job of regulating vets – and
although they can’t dictate what vets charge – they can step in if they
consider vet bills to be excessive.
The programme asks whether the Royal College is
doing enough with the powers it has and if there should be more regulation in
the industry.
Unlicensed Veterinarian Performs Surgery on Dog at Banfield
SAN ANTONIO -- Bella is a spunky West Highland White Terrier that was spayed and had dew claws removed a few months ago at Banfield, the Pet Hospital, at a Petsmart on Highway 281 and Bitters Road."The incision looked horrible, really red," Hornseth said.
Hornseth said that she assumed the veterinarian on duty, Lynn Dumas, was licensed to practice in Texas. Read full article here
Read the statement issued by BANFIELD here, stating that "Banfield has put new measures in place to ensure this kind of confusion does not occur again."
Related:
Texas Residents: Do you know your veterinarian's disciplinary record? CHECK HERE!
Mesquite, Texas--Citizen advocate Greg Munson of Mesquite, Texas, has compiled a complete listing of all disciplinary actions taken against veterinarians in Texas. The listing can be viewed at http://texasveterinaryrecords.110mb.com
Just because their name isn't on there doesn't mean there isn't a problem -- 92 PERCENT of ALL malpractice complaints against Texas vets are DISMISSED. Just like Suki's was, in spite of all the evidence.
[Note: Not affiliated with the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners in any way]
The current financial climate makes it tempting to cut corners on veterinary care. But you could end up paying the highest price of all. Check out
Does your vet brag about low, low prices? Imply that "other" vets are greedy while his only motives are practically saintly? Boast that he or she doesn't do "unnecessary" tests like those "greedy" vets?
Quick quiz: Do you KNOW what the standard of care is, or do you just take your "wonderful" vet's word for it?
Be warned: While you're idolizing your vet for saving you money, your pets could be paying the ultimate price.
by Julie Catalano, Founder, vetabusenetwork.com
Don't Believe Everything You Hear from Your Vet
Excellent article on the PETA web site about the importance of questioning your vet.
Excerpt:
The importance of questioning authority cannot be overstated. Blind obedience to authority can lead to horrifying consequences, as was clearly demonstrated in the Milgram experiments of the 1960s, in which between 61 and 66 percent of people were willing to administer fatal shocks (450 volts) to another human being just because the authority figure told them that they must do it.
And
The moral of the story is this: Take everything your vet says with a grain of salt. You alone are responsible for your dog’s well-being, so if something in a treatment plan seems off, speak up! Ask for alternatives. Get a second opinion and a third and a fourth, if you have to, and by all means, check out the holistic alternatives and approaches. Go online and do some research on your own. You’ll be amazed at how much you can learn that way. Take charge of your dog’s health yourself. You, and not your vet, are your dog’s best advocate.
To this excellent advice I would add: ALWAYS get copies of your pet's records, including copies of all lab work. As I've said many, many times - show me lousy records and I will show you a lousy vet.
ALWAYS question authority. Blind obedience and blind trust are the worst decisions you can make for your pet. Those of us who blindly trusted vets and obeyed treatment instructions that were anything but proper have to live with that for the rest of our lives.
-J.C.-
![[Blue Ribbon Campaign icon]](http://www.eff.org/br/brstrip.gif){kind=small}
Major Legal Victory for Animal Guardians in Washington State!
Do you suspect your pet died or was seriously damaged as a result of an unauthorized procedure by a vet? You might be interested in a big legal win that just took place in Washington State. Read A Major Victory for Animal Guardians posted at the Animal Legal Defense Fund site.
To me, unauthorized procedures are the ultimate betrayal, the personification of arrogance carried out by a vet who thinks that he or she has the right to do whatever, wherever, and however, to an animal that does not and never will belong to them without even consulting with the owner PRIOR to the procedures. It is unforgivable, inexcusable, and the sure sign of an egomaniac with so little respect for the rights of others that there really is no punishment sufficient for someone as despicable as that. - JC
Here is the most important legal information from the Washington case:
"The court held, importantly, that the question of whether an animal has any market value is one left to the jury to decide. All the plaintiff must do is present evidence that the animal lacks a market value and a replacement value (perhaps because of her age, mixed breed status, or health), and the question goes to the jury on the animal's value. Because juries are often sympathetic to the real value people place on their animal companions, this is a major victory for guardians." Read more here
Do you need to file a complaint against a veterinarian? Start here.
"Help! My Vet Sued Me!!"
Check here for updates on lawsuits being filed by VETERINARIANS against their CLIENTS
We will monitor ongoing litigation by vets against their own victims and WILL REPORT ON THIS SITE whatever tactics are used by vets in litigation. If you have a story to share about vets who are filing lawsuits and/or attempting to obtain injunctions against former clients sharing their experiences, contact me.
This is an independent consumer advocacy site and not associated with any state licensing board or regulatory agency in any way.
Do you need to file a complaint against a veterinarian? Start here.
Texas residents, go to Texas Page
Editorial: Why is the Free Speech Online Campaign Important?
by Julie Catalano
Do you know of a vet threatening legal action or filing a suit against a client/victim? Please let us know and help us spread the word about lawsuits filed by veterinarians seeking injunctive relief.
What are SLAPP lawsuits?
SLAPP is an acronym for "strategic lawsuit against public participation," a category of lawsuit viewed as an attempt not to win in court, but to harass a nonprofit group or publication that is raising issues of public concern. - from sfgate.com
Check out SLAPPing Back for Democracy
Bookmark this page and check back for updates
September 16, 2008 - Editorial
Big Surprise: Joshua Winston Cleared, but Will We Ever Know What Really Happened?
As I predicted when this vet was arrested and indicted for animal cruelty charges last year, Joshua Winston of Arizona was found not guilty of animal cruelty on September 11.
Sorry, but there's still something extremely disturbing about this case, and for that matter, any case involving alleged animal cruelty by a vet. Seems like they can never, for one reason or another, ever seem to make the charges stick despite all the evidence (Howard Baker in New Jersey, Mircia Volosen in Texas, Thomas Sheridan in South Carolina, and now Joshua Winston in Arizona). They go after the messengers big time ("disgruntled" employees, "disgruntled, crazy" owners, etc.), and listen to the "explanations" of these "doctors" who always seem to have a ready answer when it comes to justifying whatever it is they are doing.
Sorry, but I'm a little leery of hatchet jobs on anybody who dares to come forward and speak out against a vet.
Is it the blind hero worship of vets? Is it the shredding they do of witnesses who dare to try to hold these "professionals" accountable? Is it the crafty tactics used by defense attorneys to make sure their clients get away with whatever they are accused of?
Hard to imagine a pediatrician even being accused, much less arrested and indicted by a grand jury on the basis of the evidence and eyewitnesses, being found not guilty in a case of child abuse.
And yet the courts seem more than willing to cut veterinarians all kinds of slack in animal cruelty cases.
And make no mistake: The vets--and their lawyers--know this better than anybody.
So the board cleared this vet (no surprise there). The jury cleared this vet (no surprise there).
Maybe the court of public opinion will come to a different conclusion. One can only hope.
- Julie Catalano, Founder, vetabusenetwork.com
See latest media coverage on Joshua Winston here:
A Dog of a Case: Andrew Thomas Again Proves that Indicting the Innocent Isn't a Good Idea, phoenixnewtimes.com, October 16, 2008
Sun City Veterinarian Found Not Guilty of Abusing Chihuahua, azcentral.com, September 9, 2008 (includes commentary by readers following the article)
Vindicated Veterinarian Recounts Ordeal, yourwestvalley.com, September 11, 2008
Related:
Vet Arrested in Chihuahua's Beating, (Phoenix, Arizona) readingeagle.com, June 11, 2007
Dog beaten, eye dislodged, vet charged, www.pet-abuse.com - Joshua Winston, DVM
Recovering from the crash: A planner lays out a plan to help veterinarian Joshua Winston rally back from two big setbacks, cnnmoney.com, January 10, 2005
Veterinary Board is Lax on Discipline, Some Say, Arizona Daily Star, June 29, 2003
Texas Residents: Do you know your veterinarian's record?
Mesquite, Texas--Citizen advocate Greg Munson of Mesquite, Texas, has compiled a complete listing of all disciplinary actions taken against veterinarians in Texas. The listing can be viewed at http://texasveterinaryrecords.110mb.com
NOTE: The disciplinary records on the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners web site do NOT contain the full docket of disciplinary actions. Seems the Board is playing games with what PUBLIC information they choose to put on PUBLIC view.
Since we, the public, have the right to know just who is doing what to our pets by these licensees of the state, citizen advocates have taken this issue into their own hands.
For the FULL DISCIPLINARY DOCKET on disciplined vets in Texas:
Check out disciplined vets in Texas at new consumer website
(Source of data: Public records from TBVME full docket listing, agreed orders, and online disciplinary records)
Please note!
Note: If you do not see a vet's name on this list, it does NOT mean he or she has not had complaints filed. In Texas, dismissed complaints are not part of the public record. Complainants, however, are free to reveal the name of the vet they filed on. IF YOU HAVE FILED A COMPLAINT ON A TEXAS VETERINARIAN AND IT WAS DISMISSED, PLEASE CONTACT ME.
The Texas Vet Board has a DISMAL record of disciplining vets who may have violated the standard of care. More than 90 percent of malpractice complaints in Texas are DISMISSED. Who exactly is the Texas vet board protecting? Not the public, that's for sure.
There are SIX VETERINARIAN MEMBERS ON THE TEXAS VET BOARD. Complaints are not evaluated by the board, but by only one vet (prior to 2005) or two vets (after 2005).
Read Suki's Story (complaint against Edward J. Nichols dismissed by ONE vet, not evaluated by the Board)
Read Stempy's Story (complaint against Ann Thomas dismissed by TWO vets, not evaluated by the Board)
The Texas Vet Board system is a TRAVESTY that endangers the lives of our pets every single day by refusing to enforce the laws of its own profession against those vets who breach the standard of care, fail to get owner consent for even serious procedures such as anesthesia and surgery, fail to perform presurgical labwork or pre-anesthetic evaluations, fail to keep accurate records, fail to properly diagnose and inform the owner of an animal's TRUE CONDITION, and then when caught, fail to accept responsibility for what they have done and instead blame the owners.
New consumer web sites watching the Alabama Vet Board and the New Hampshire Vet Board
In memory of Asproolee
In memory of Pocket
They join other consumer sites in monitoring the activities of their state vet boards.
www.aligus.com (North Carolina)
In memory of Alex and Gus
In memory of Stempy, Suki, Bo Bo Bear, Parker, Calypso
Excerpted from The Bad Vet Daily
Alabama Vet Fakes Burglary, Sets Clinic on Fire, Killing Two Dogs and Five Cats:
"This is a story that epitomizes how
vets can lie -- lies so bald-faced, so immoral, that one is left to ask:
'Is this man a sociopath?' Lies in which the vet is the hero or martyr,
whose heart bleeds for animals, when the truth is -- he is a killer of
animals.
"This is also a story of how eager the veterinary community, and the
press and community at large are, to buy into this false heroic image of
veterinarians." read entire post by the BVD
editor here
New Video: Avoiding Dangerous Veterinarians
Check out new video by award-winning author Jan Rasmussen at
Your Veterinarian: Friend Or Foe?
Jan Rasmussen, author of Scared Poopless: The Straight Scoop on Dog Care, has produced a series of outstanding videos on such topics as Avoiding Dangerous Veterinarians and Stand Up to your Veterinarian
Check out her blog at www.Truth4Dogs.com and website www.Dogs4Dogs.com
As many of us learned the hard way, the reason our pets are so vulnerable is because of our own TRUST in vets who may not be worthy of that trust.
"Most of us trust our vets wholeheartedly, because we see dog care as too complicated for mere mortals, we happily abdicate our responsibility as our pets advocate in favor of our vet's perceived wisdom," she says.
She writes that a 2006 Gallop Poll shows that Americans perceive the veterinary profession to be among the top three "Honesty and Ethical Professions," says Rasmussen.
But as she wisely points out: "It's important to remember that perception isn't always reality."
Truer words were never spoken.
Going to the Vet? Ten Ways to Protect Your Best Friend
By Julie Catalano
Get copies of records...check out your vet's official and unofficial history of problems...plus second opinion, second opinion, second opinion...more
"Show me lousy records, and I will show you a lousy vet..."
Consumer blog a must-read for pet owners and guardians everywhere
Check out The Bad Vet Daily - 365 Days of Bad Vets
Citizen advocate Stefani Olsen has done an extraordinary job of culling through the nation's disciplinary records on veterinarians from coast to coast -- and highlighting some of the worst offenders you can imagine, all taken from public investigative, disciplinary, and legal records. Warning: Graphic and disturbing content.
For those who think "it can't happen to me," the Bad Vet Daily graphically illustrates what can and does go on behind closed doors at vet clinics. The message?
"If reading this blog gets one pet owner to admit the thought into their minds that maybe -- just maybe -- they shouldn't blindly trust their vet, it will have been worth it. We need to become proactive in evaluating vets and their care, not waiting for a tragedy." [Source: The Bad Vet Daily]
To that I will add: the Bad Vet Daily is one of the most important public record resources on the net for those looking for details behind some of these disciplinary and legal actions against vets across the country. The stories are heartbreaking; many, if not most, appear to be completely avoidable had the vets been the least bit competent.
The vets featured on Bad Vet Daily range from the terminally stupid to the downright terrifying, and should give nightmares to anybody who blindly trusts their vet without checking their histories. Thank you, Stefani, for providing such a valuable service and relaying vital information to the pet-owning public. -- JC
Dr. William Baber, Gallatin, Tennessee
Vet Accused of Inhumane Animal Euthanasia Regains License
April 25, 2008, GALLATIN, Tenn. (AP) - A
veterinarian accused of euthanizing animals without sedation at the Sumner
County animal shelter had his license reinstated, but will be on
probation.
William Baber had his license suspended after the Board of Veterinary
Medical Examiners viewed video footage of his practices first aired by
WSMV-TV in Nashville.
The video showed Baber injecting sodium pentobarbital directly into the
animals' hearts, a procedure known as intracardial euthanasia. The
procedure is legal in the state only if the animal is sedated. more
Gallatin Vet, Baber, Arrested and Charged, wsmv.com, January 3, 2008
"Tennessee Vet Gone Bad"
"...still conscious, the cats were described as...'going wild' after being placed in a container, with as many as 10-15 of them being dumped on top of each other in a 'cruel manner,' authorities allege. These animals were allegedly placed into an incinerator without ever verifying that they were dead before being incinerated." It was also reported that the killings were performed within view and earshot of other animals."
Baber reportedly killed approximately 3,000 dogs and cats last year, netting him $9 per animal.
[Source: On Loving Animals - William Baber, Tennesee Vet Gone Bad]
December 14, 2007 - Veterinarian William Baber's license was suspended for four months by the Tennessee Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, and placed on probation for five years. He was also fined $2,000.
The Tennessee board will convene again in April to decide whether to revoke his license.
Baber's License Suspended, Fined, mytennessean.com, December 14, 2007
Editorial
So "Dr." Baber is out of commission for four whole months. I personally believe that this vet's license should have been revoked, but a vet can't practice without his license, and the goal of vet boards everywhere is to protect the livelihood of the vet, no matter how many statutes they violate. Let's hope the heat is kept up on this jerk. Thankfully, he won't be permitted to work at an animal shelter during his five-year probationary period, but that means he'll still be inflicted on the public in the form of private practice.
A vet doing whatever he wants behind closed doors is very bad news indeed, but at least this one won't be harming any animals for a few months. Maybe he can take some courses between now and then to learn the definitions of "sedation" and "anesthesia" and "euthanasia" and "humane," in case he missed them first time around.
Hopefully, when Mr. Baber goes back to work, savvy Tennessee pet guardians will do their homework before they entrust their pets to him, since he seems to be extremely deficient in keeping up with the laws of his own profession. He claims that he didn't know about the statute he violated, and says the board hadn't notified him that the laws for humane euthanasia had changed. Huh? He also claims that other vets didn't know the law had been changed either.
So the moral here, for us uneducated and ignorant "nonprofessionals," is 1) do whatever you want, and 2) if you get caught -- blame something or somebody else! And don't forget to throw in what other vets do or don't do, and know or don't know, to justify your own incompetence. Whine about how YOU are the "real" victim. That's admirable, and certainly a sign of great integrity.
Which means, sadly for pet owners and guardians, that no matter how bad the offense is, some vets will still find a way to make endless excuses for themselves. A coward like Baber will probably spend the rest of his days claiming he did nothing wrong, he was only doing his job, someone was out to get him, blah blah blah. Those are the usual smokescreens used by those who don't have what it takes to step up, be a man, and take responsibility for their own actions. Let's hope the ongoing criminal investigation nails him too. Then we'll see what his next set of excuses will be. It's not his first run-in with the board, either, so it's not like they didn't know what they were dealing with. He was also reprimanded by the shelter facility several months earlier for his methods, which obviously did a lot of good since Baber kept doing what he was doing (i.e., whatever he wanted).
It wouldn't surprise me in the least to see this creep turn around and sue someone for defamation/entrapment/harassment/emotional distress or whatever else his lawyer can dream up. But if he's been paying any attention to the track record of lawsuits being used to silence or punish their critics, maybe he's smart enough to recognize that that is a losing battle, too. No vet will ever have the power to silence our statements about what we have every right and reason to believe is WRONG. As long as there are vets doing incorrect, inhumane, incompetent, negligent, and harmful things, there will ALWAYS be somebody out there to tell what they did, and to whom they did it. They can't silence EVERYBODY. But some vets might really believe that they have the power to control everyone. Can you say arrogant?
At least the Tennessee board took some action, partly, I hope, in response to media coverage and public pressure, which is what it will ultimately take to shine the spotlight on vets who think the rules don't apply to them. The public has the right to know what these licensees of the state are REALLY doing, so that everyone can make informed choices for the care of their companion animals. -- J.C.
Related media coverage on Baber, below...
Consumer Alert! You have the right to informed consent
Does your vet know that informed consent takes place PRIOR to a procedure being performed on your companion animal?
Apparently not all veterinarians understand this concept. You may want to make sure you are taking your pet to a vet who actually explains EXACTLY what is going to be done to YOUR pet (some vets might be a little blurry on the concept of who actually OWNS the animal - make sure your vet has the capacity to understand that this is YOUR pet, NOT THEIRS), explains the risks vs. benefits of that SPECIFIC PROCEDURE, and other information about that SPECIFIC PROCEDURE, and obtains your INFORMED CONSENT for that SPECIFIC PROCEDURE BEFOREHAND.
This is especially crucial if the vet performs surgery or uses anesthesia on YOUR pet. Also, you may want to make sure that your vet has a working knowledge of proper anesthesia regimens as well, before you allow them to perform surgery on YOUR pet.
A vet MUST obtain permission from YOU, the CLIENT and OWNER of the animal for the SPECIFIC PROCEDURES they perform on YOUR PET. Veterinary Practice Act statutes forbid the performance of an UNAUTHORIZED procedure, and NO VET can manufacture an incidence of "informed consent" that never happened, nor can they apply their own personal definition to it to make it appear as if informed consent took place when it didn't.
If ANY VET performs surgery and administers anesthesia without your knowledge and INFORMED CONSENT, claiming afterwards (when they get caught) that you gave "informed consent" when NO such authorization for SPECIFIC PROCEDURES TOOK PLACE, and you had NO KNOWLEDGE of the specific procedures to be performed BEFORE they were performed, REPORT THE VET TO YOUR STATE VETERINARY BOARD IMMEDIATELY.
You may have to MAKE your vet follow the law by notifying them that they do NOT have permission to do whatever they want to YOUR pet unless they
1) know the definition of informed consent, and 2) actually USE it BEFORE performing surgical and anesthetic procedures on YOUR pet.
Some vets apparently feel entitled to ignore such things as the laws of their own profession and the standard of care.
If you are unfortunate enough to end up with a vet who acts as if the rules don't apply to them, defines informed consent as something other than what it is, breaches the standard of care, hides behind staff members or vet techs, and then blames YOU or YOUR PET for THE VET'S OWN ACTIONS, FIND ANOTHER VET.
There are plenty of good vets who know the definitions of informed consent and standard of care, and will not play games with YOUR pet's life.
More below...
Groomer News
Celeste Rainone, Grooming by Celeste, Baltimore, Maryland
Pet Groomer Who Killed Dog Sentenced to Jail
Rajah's Killer Gets Jail Time, examiner.com, November 19, 2007
Groomer claims she beat dog because she was having a "panic attack."
Fourteen-year-old poodle suffered blunt trauma to head, face, liver, and other organs.
Dog beater had threatened to sue owner for defamation.
Judge sentences Rainone to three months.
Rajah’s owner, Nancy Pine, a Baldwin resident, said she was tired of hearing Rainone’s “constant excuses.”
“This dog was beat to death, and she needs to be held accountable for that,” Pine said. “… She took a life.”
The Baltimore County government has not revoked her grooming license, despite the conviction.
My favorite part? The killer's lawyer says that "publicity about the case" has "destroyed his client's business."
So the question becomes:
Should we grieve the beating death of Rajah, a beloved family companion, a geriatric 14-year-old dog who was dropped off at the groomer's by his owners in an act of trust?
Or should we mourn Celeste Rainone's "destroyed" pet grooming business?
Your choice.
-J.C.
Related:
Rajah's Killer is Found Guilty, examiner.com, October 2, 2007
Dog groomer Celeste Rainone took the stand Monday and adamantly denied beating a poodle to death in a fit of rage.
“I would never do something like that,” Rainone, 53, said in Baltimore County District Court. “I don’t even dig in my garden because I might hurt earthworms.”
What killed Rajah the poodle?, examiner.com, February 21, 2007
“They called and said, ‘He bite me. He’s not behaving very well and there’s no excuse for that,’ ” Pine said. “What in the heck was being done to my dog? If they knew the dog was in distress, they should have called me. If they thought the dog was sick, they should have called me.”
Pine said the business’ owner, Celeste Rainone, told her after returning Rajah that the dog was ill when Pine brought him to her, but Pine doesn’t buy that.
“It’s suspicious. I think she might have been struggling with the dog,” she said. “We’re just devastated. This should not have happened to any animal.”
This is an independent consumer advocacy site and not associated with any state licensing board or regulatory agency in any way.
Do you need to file a complaint against a veterinarian? Start here.
Texas residents, go to Texas Page
What state are you in?
Check out the new States Project on vetabusenetwork.com that will monitor
legislation, veterinary board actions, news and media coverage, web sites,
and other related
links from your state more
Editorial
Consumer Website Watches Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
http://texasvetboardwatch.110mb.com
Site launched by Mesquite victims Greg and Cindy Munson aims to shed daylight on proceedings in Austin and keep Texas pet owners informed on laws that affect pets and vets.
Do you doubt that vets protect vets?
If you do, consider this: More than 90 percent of consumer complaints filed with the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners against vets in Texas are DISMISSED - formerly by only one vet, in recent years by two, thanks to legislative changes - but never by the entire board as the public might be led to believe. Complaint dismissals are regularly rubber-stamped by the board only after one or two vets conduct their off the record "investigation" safely out of public view, while communicating with the vet in question and forbidding the complainant to have any contact with them. While some states open their investigative files to the public so that owners and guardians can make up their own minds, Texas does not. It is a secret system in this state that puts our pets at continuous risk.
But that won't -- and thankfully can't -- stop consumers from sharing as much information as possible.
The new site, Texas VetBoard Watch, is aimed at shedding daylight on the policies and procedures of the Texas Vet Board, was launched by Greg and Cindy Munson in honor of Stempy and to help all other Texas victims of the travesty that exists in Austin.
The new site will WATCH and MONITOR how the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners dismisses more than 90 percent of consumer complaints filed in Texas no matter how much evidence exists of alleged malpractice, negligence, and incompetence, along with evidence of repeated violations of the Texas Veterinary Practice Act and repeated breaches in the standard of care.
Disgruntled vets who blatantly violate the statutes may bristle at being under scrutiny -- after all, their private practices are also safely out of view from prying eyes -- but CBS-11 TV in Dallas covered the very serious subject of the Texas Veterinary Board's track record earlier this year in a two-part investigative series. Media is increasingly reporting on issues surrounding vets and vet boards, and we hope they continue to do so. Their actions (and inactions) have a direct effect on public health and safety, and their actions (and inactions) have gone unexamined for far too long. How many vets who have been exonerated by this broken and inadequate system are out there putting animals at risk every day? How many vets have had multiple complaints filed against them but because they were dismissed by this secret system, they appear to have a "clean" record? We'll never know.
Vet after vet after vet is let go by a system that refuses to properly evaluate evidence, and takes the vet's "word" for events without allowing the complainant to see the vet's WRITTEN RESPONSE; meaning, the vet is free to misrepresent things such as "refusal" of treatments, "authorization" of treatments, "informed consent" (by their definition), patient record-keeping, and other events, confident that the complainant will never see the vet's OWN WORDS IN WRITING. By not allowing the complainant to communicate with the reviewing vets (while the vet is free to contact the board all he wants to "help" the decision-makers understand what "really" happened), by keeping the informal conference off the record and behind closed doors, and by keeping the complainant OUT OF THE LOOP, the board system enables the vets to come up with any version of events they want, knowing that the owner won't be around to contradict them or force the reviewing vets to actually look at the evidence of wrongdoing. EVIDENCE.
Well, some have been looking VERY closely at what goes on in Austin at a system that continues to protect vets who do whatever they want behind closed doors, knowing that their deeds will be similarly protected behind closed doors at a state agency that is supposed to be protecting US and OUR ANIMALS. The new site will help in keeping track of the Texas vet board antics as they may be tempted to find new and more creative ways to protect the licensees who flout the laws of their own profession year in and year out, knowing that there's only an EIGHT PERCENT CHANCE THAT ANY OF THEM WILL GET CAUGHT.
Or to put it another way, they may ALL get caught, since the vets own actions and records speak for themselves, but only eight percent of them will get punished.
If you live in Texas, please join the Munsons in helping to hold the Texas vet board accountable for the policies and procedures that are in place to PROTECT VETS at the expense of our PETS' LIVES, and at the expense of public health and safety. Check out their excellent new site.
Think Texas has the only sorry vet board in the country?
Read on...
Dr. William Baber, Gallatin, Tennessee
Vet Accused of Inhumane Animal Euthanasia Regains License
April 25, 2008,
GALLATIN, Tenn. (AP) - A veterinarian accused of euthanizing animals
without sedation at the Sumner County animal shelter had his license
reinstated, but will be on probation.
William Baber had his license suspended after the Board of Veterinary
Medical Examiners viewed video footage of his practices first aired by
WSMV-TV in Nashville.
The video showed Baber injecting sodium pentobarbital directly into the
animals' hearts, a procedure known as intracardial euthanasia. The
procedure is legal in the state only if the animal is sedated. more
Vet injected sodium pentobarbitol directly into thousands of animals hearts without sedation or anesthesia. Baber claims he didn't know that was illegal.
December 14, 2007 - Veterinarian William Baber's license was suspended for four months by the Tennessee Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. He was fined $2,000 and placed on probation for five years, during which time he cannot work at any animal shelter.
Baber's License Suspended, Fined, mytennessean.com, December 14, 2007
PETA Action Alert: Demand Revocation of Cruel Veterinarian's License
Tennessee Vet's License Reinstated
Board Temporarily Suspends Tennessee Vet's License Due to Illegal Euthanasia Method
Sheriff's Office to Investigate Illegal Euthanasia Methods by Tennessee Vet
Other Related Posts:
Gallatin Vet, Baber, Arrested and Charged
Tennessee Vet’s License Reinstated
Board Suspends Cruel Tennessee Vet After Video Exposes Euthanasia Practices
Tennessee Vet’s Cruel Euthanasia Methods Exposed
Dr. Joshua Winston, Phoenix
Winston cleared by jury. See Editorial "No Big Surprise" on this above, plus related links below:
Sun City Veterinarian Found Not Guilty of Abusing Chihuahua, azcentral.com, September 9, 2008
Vindicated Veterinarian Recounts Ordeal, yourwestvalley.com, September 11, 2008
Board clears veterinarian of punching chihuahua, Arizona Republic, September 26, 2007
On a 5-2 decision, the veterinary board agreed last week there was no evidence that Dr. Joshua Winston had acted unprofessionally, and it later dismissed an animal-abuse complaint against him, said Jenna Jones, the board's executive director.Winston, the owner of Sun City West Animal Hospital, was indicted on one felony charge of animal abuse in July.
Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas called the board decision "disappointing and contrary to the weight of the evidence" and said his office will continue to prosecute Winston. [Source: Arizona Republic]
Dr. Joshua Winston faces charges of animal cruelty and theft, according to a prepared statement from Maricopa County Sheriff's office.
The theft charges
come from a separate incident in earlier this year, when Winston was to
vaccinate a Neapolitan Mastiff and instead of vaccinating the dog, Winston
shot the vaccination into the air and charged the dog's owner, Jeff Orth,
$80. [Source: azcentral.com, July 10, 2007]
My favorite comment came from this poster on the Republic's web site.
"They decided he did not act unprofessionally!?!? Hmmm, And what does a vet charge you for the 'Professional' service of knocking your dog's eye out?"
--J.C.
Related:
Vet Arrested in Chihuahua's Beating, (Phoenix, Arizona) readingeagle.com, June 11, 2007
Veterinary Board is Lax on Discipline, Some Say, Arizona Daily Star, June 29, 2003
Dog beaten, eye dislodged, vet charged, www.pet-abuse.com - Joshua Winston
Recovering from the crash: A planner lays out a plan to help veterinarian Joshua Winston rally back from two big setbacks, cnnmoney.com, January 10, 2005
MORE VET BOARD NEWS
Check out a consumer site on the Alabama veterinary board
In memory of Asproolee
Check out a consumer site on the North Carolina veterinary board
In memory of Alex and Gus
Check out a consumer site on the New Hampshire veterinary board
In memory of Pocket
Check out a consumer site on the Texas veterinary board
In memory of Stempy, Suki, Bo Bo Bear, Parker, and Calypso
Check out a consumer site with Texas State Board disciplinary action summaries
Featured essay: Pet Owners Beware
"Consumers have the right to question the goods and services they pay for. Consumers have the right when business and government agency's refuse help to go to others seeking and sharing those same goods and services and ask questions. Consumers have a right to basic consumer rights, freedom of speech and freedom of information. As pet owners we are consumers. What reputable business hangs out a sign, offers goods and services to the public, solicits your business, takes your money, then has the state pass a law which restricts you from questioning or scrutinizing them? These people are your pets veterinarians."
From www.sheridantruth.com:
Read more on Thomas Sheridan, DVM, and other South Carolina news
ripoffreport.com
Featured essay: Pet Owners Beware
"Consumers have the right to question the goods and services they pay for. Consumers have the right when business and government agency's refuse help to go to others seeking and sharing those same goods and services and ask questions. Consumers have a right to basic consumer rights, freedom of speech and freedom of information. As pet owners we are consumers. What reputable business hangs out a sign, offers goods and services to the public, solicits your business, takes your money, then has the state pass a law which restricts you from questioning or scrutinizing them? These people are your pets veterinarians."
A Must-Read - a PETA
Investigator's Story
Do You Know What Happens in Your Vet's Back Room?
WARNING - Graphic content
plus...
An 8-Point Plan to Protect Your Animal Companion
"Does the vet go into the back room for even simple procedures?...ALWAYS exercise your right to be with your animal at all times...If your animal must stay overnight...make sure someone is going to be there to monitor...For anything major, seek a second and third opinion. You are entitled to copies of your companion's medical records and x-rays...If you believe an animal has been mistreated, take him or her to another vet for a thorough examination." more
Related:
Vet Removes Dog's Teeth Without Notifying Owner, North Andover, Mass., eagletribune.com, June 2, 2007
"The whole idea is this is your child, this is your baby. How can you trust what they say when you drop off your pet?" asked [owner] Carew, who lives in Haverhill.
INFORMED CONSENT -- DOES YOUR VET KNOW WHAT THAT IS?
AVMA Standard Consent Form
Is your vet using a consent form PRIOR to the procedures he performs? Even the AVMA offers the use of a standard consent form for its members to use which clearly states that the owner has "been informed that there are certain risks and complications associated with any operation or procedure of this type. They have been explained to me as well."
Further, the form states that the owner authorizes "the use of appropriate anesthesia and pain relief medication as needed before or after the procedure."
Getting permission from the owner prior to anesthesia and surgery? What a concept. A pet guardian has every right to know what is being done to their animal BEFORE it's done. Use a vet who does not use consent forms for procedures involving surgery and anesthesia at your own risk, or you may end up with a vet doing whatever he or she wants with no thought to your wishes and CHOICES as a pet owner.
Informed consent is the VETERINARIAN explaining risks vs. benefits of a SPECIFIC procedure PRIOR to the procedure being performed. It is NOT a vet doing whatever they want, in secret, and then claiming afterwards that "informed consent" was given. NOR IS IT "INFORMED CONSENT" THROUGH A THIRD PARTY SUCH AS A STAFF MEMBER, VET TECH, OR RECEPTIONIST.
If the vet himself did NOT explain the specific procedure to you BEFORE it was done, THEN INFORMED CONSENT DID NOT HAPPEN, NO MATTER HOW THE VET ATTEMPTS TO TWIST EVENTS.
--J.C.
More on record-keeping and informed consent here
"'There is nothing you can do for a cat whose kidneys are failing.' Wrong. Fluids and various medications can be of great benefit.... Run from a vet who throws up his or her hands like this. At the very least, get a second opinion." [Stupid Vet Tricks?]
From Florida
Family
Blames Animal Clinic After Dog Suddenly Dies,
wftv.com, Orlando, March 2, 2007
"Eyewitness News went to the animal hospital for some answers, but got none. Now Dan wants to find out not only what killed his dog, but at least three other dogs that were at the hospital. An after death medical report from the University of Florida said the deaths were linked to some kind of infectious organism."
from New Hampshire
Check out Pocket's Story to see the disciplinary action (and lack thereof) taken against vets in New Hampshire.
Summary: 1995-2000 85 written complaints received and 9 forms of official discipline imposed for a rate of 10.5%
2000-2005 133 written complaints resulted in 7 forms of official discipline for a rate of 5.3% [Source: Pocket's Story]
A disciplinary rate of 5.3 percent? Pathetic! The NH board must be vying for the title of most worthless vet board in the country. Unfortunately, they have a LOT of competition in that category..
For more information, check out the New Hampshire Resident Page on Pocket's Story site.
[On February 8, 2007, I attended and testified at the meeting of the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners in Austin, Texas. Board meetings are open to the public. -- J.C]
Good news for Texas pet guardians!
Amendment Passed
- Texas vets will be required to turn over complete patient records
at the beginning of investigations.
Austin, February 8, 2007 - At the last public meeting of the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, Board members voted to pass an amendment to Rule 575.27 -- Complaints - Receipt, Investigation and Disposition -- which will require veterinarians to turn over patient records to board investigators at the onset of an investigation instead of seeing the complaint first and then submitting records. More
Bad news for Texas pet guardians!
Amendment Defeated -
October 2006 - A proposed amendment would have required Texas vets to
note in the patient record when services and treatments are offered to the
client and declined. The amendment's defeat gives Texas vets
complete protection should they violate the humane standard of care - all
they have to do is blame the client for "declining" proper tests
and treatments when there is no notation in the record of that ever
happening. It's a foolproof way for vets to mistreat your pet in any
number of ways, enjoy zero accountability for what is (and is NOT) on
their patient records, and then later blame YOU for their own actions! More
Texas VetBoardWatch Site Launched by Texas Advocates
Urgent Notice to Pet Guardians
Do you have complete copies of your pet's medical records?
Veterinary Record-Keeping Essential to Your Pet's Health and Safety
Filing a complaint? Get copies of records immediately. If you live in a state that allows you to get copies of your pet's records (Texas does), do so as soon as possible and before you file the complaint with the state board. More
Related:
"After Luke died, I contacted all of the veterinary clinics where I had taken Luke and requested copies of his records. (You bet I was pissed!) All but one clinic did indeed send me records, however, the records were useless. I was shocked and appalled! The records were scant, incomplete, non-existent. Most of the "records" are only copies of the billing. Only the University of Minnesota Veterinary Clinic keeps records of any value - but then, their vets don't read them and end up killing your dog.... I'll tell you about that later." From Luke's Story
INFORMED CONSENT -- DOES YOUR VET KNOW WHAT THAT IS?
"Obtaining the informed consent of the pet owner prior to the anesthetic and/or surgical procedure may be one of the most important steps in establishing an understanding with the client. This process addresses the issue of risks associated with the procedure." -- From the California Veterinary Medical Board web site.
Is your veterinarian following the law?
More on record-keeping and informed consent here
Veterinarians Can 'Get Away with Murder,' Animal-Law Attorney Says, columbiajournalist.org, February 26, 2007
"If you file suit against a vet in New York, don’t expect much. Seligman, who is fighting to get damages for her client in the ruptured spleen case, says that while there does exist a standard of care – “the reasonably prudent doctor standard” – if something goes wrong, a veterinarian is hardly ever held liable." more
Maryland Pet Guardians - What You Need to Know
Consumer site for veterinary victims in Maryland
Toonces Olsen (Maryland)
Check here for list of Maryland vets disciplined between January 1, 2005 - August 2, 2006
Check here for summaries of Texas vets disciplined in 2005
Check out The Toonces Project Editorials:
Veterinary Board, Do Your Job!
Do you need to file a
complaint against a veterinarian?
Start here.
Texas Pet Guardians - What You Need to Know
Stempy's Story "Never Blindly Trust Your Vet"
Stempy's
Checklist -- How to Choose a Veterinarian
Choose the original 40-question comprehensive version or the 21-question express checklist
Check background, compliance, experience, education, office hours, appointments, emergencies, practice issues, fees and payment methods, tour of the facility, and more
Stempy Munson (Texas)
Watch CBS 11's Tracy Rowlett's Two-Part Series on KTVT-TV, Dallas:
Pet
Owners Claim Vet Malpractice Killed Dogs
(Dallas) cbs11tv.com, March 21, 2007
Pet
Owners Fight for Better Animal Health Care , cbs11tv.com, March 22,
2007
from Stempy's Site:
Texas Vet Board Watch - What is going on in Austin?
|
Check out consumer warnings about unnecessary and potentially harmful vaccines at More on Dr. Dachshund Killer here Veterinarian's Actions Cruel, Unnecessary Court of Appeals, Texas, Fort Worth - Was Volosen Acquitted?
and ALLEGATIONS AGAINST ED NICHOLS, CRESTWAY ANIMAL CLINIC Correspondence from the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners re my complaint against Dr. Ed Nichols (complaint dismissed) A State of Disgrace: Is the Texas Veterinary Board Really Protecting the Public? FOR TEXAS RESIDENTS - What You Need to Know: CONSUMER ALERT Make sure your vet has this info posted: Does your vet obey the statutes of the Texas Veterinary Licensing Act? Do you see this sign at your vet's clinic? If not, maybe it's time to find another vet... Vets in Texas are required to post notice of where to file complaints.
CHECK OUT DISCIPLINED VETS IN TEXAS
Has a veterinarian ever threatened you? Email me here
Need a place to tell your personal vet experience? Check out www.ripoffreport.com
Lucky the Dog (Florida) makes the news again... When Pets Die at the Vet, Grieving Owners Call Lawyers, USA Today, March 15, 2005 Read more about Lucky the Dog in Florida News
Pfizer settles lawsuit with guardians of dogs harmed or killed by Rimadyl. More Pfizer Settles Class Action Lawsuit Regarding Prescription Drug Rimadyl A Veterinarian's Statement on Rimadyl Jean's Master Checklist: Incompetent, Negligent Veterinarian "Times Have Changed," by Laurryn Simpson Rimadyl Death: Animals in Print: Emerging Issues Regarding Informed Consent
Romi Sanchez (Washington) Read Romi's Story
|
79th Texas Legislature Passes Sunset Commission Recommendations Changes include recommendations made by vetabusenetwork.com to change the complaint review process in Texas On May 18, 2004, I testified at the Sunset Commission which oversees the practices of all state boards, about what I believe to be potential for abuse and corruption on the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners with regard to the complaint review process. I testified to what I perceived to be then-Board secretary Dr. Martin Garcia ignoring all my evidence in my board complaint against Edward J. Nichols, Crestway Animal Clinic, San Antonio, Texas, with regard to his questionable treatment of Suki. Later, during subsequent testimony by other representatives at that meeting, Sunset Commission public member Howard Wolf, in referring to issues I had raised in my testimony, asked a question that relates to ALL pet guardians in Texas who trust their pets to veterinarians every single day: "What about the standard of care? What about Suki the cat?" - Sunset Commission public member Howard Wolf It proved that someone is listening. And I was never prouder of my Suki than on that day in Austin. I am happy to report that on September 1, 2005, HB1131 went into effect which will offer improved protection to pet guardians in the state who file complaints with the vet board regarding possible violations of the Texas Veterinary Practice Act.
TO START THE COMPLAINT PROCESS: Was your pet harmed or killed by what you suspect might be veterinary negligence, incompetence, malpractice, or abuse? Don't know what to do first? Unfortunately, there is no federal law that governs veterinarians. Each state has its own procedures. Start here...
Note: These are links to board procedures only. To file a civil lawsuit, consult an attorney licensed to practice law in your state.
Check out disciplined veterinarians in Texas.
State Veterinary Board Reviews They are large and in charge. Read articles on how they do -- and don't do -- their jobs. Texas "The Board's first priority is to protect the public." From "Compact With Texas," Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners Really? Check out two-part investigative story done by CBS-11 Dallas/Fort Worth, March 2007
The Future of Veterinary Malpractice Liability in the Care of Companion Animals by Christopher Green The unwillingness of American civil courts to realistically compensate companion animal loss has effectively negated the only independent means of enforcing the veterinary standard of care. In doing so, it has perpetuated an industry-wide market failure by keeping veterinary malpractice insurance rates artificially lower than consumers would be willing to absorb to protect themselves. Given that U.S. pet owners annually spend over $19,000,000,000 (19 billion) on veterinary care, and make more than 200,000,000 visits to the veterinarian every year, the potential for social and economic loss is considerable. Read full article here More excerpts: "Like any rule, the veterinary standard of care is only effective to the degree that it is enforced . . . the objective record of state veterinary boards clearly demonstrates that they rarely take meaningful disciplinary action in instances of negligence." "Not surprisingly, American pet owners willingness to spend these increased amounts on companion animal care has translated into an enormous economic benefit for veterinarians. In the last 10 years alone,the gross revenue of companion animal exclusive practices has more than doubled,256 with 60%of this increase occurring just in the last four years.257 Even in the midst of a national economic downturn, three out of four veterinary practices expect to see further growth, both in the number of transactions and in gross revenue,again this year. "The most recent AVMA statistics confirm that the average companion animal practitioner's income rose 25% in the last four years recorded. Individually, in 2001, veterinarians who worked exclusively with pets earned an average of $84,447 while board-certified specialists commanded an average of $142,174." [Source:http://www.animallaw.info/journals/jo_pdf/vol10_p163.pdf]
DVM - Deadly Veterinarian Mistakes Think Fido is Safe? Think Again... "How many animals are being killed by their vets without their owner's awareness? And then there's me. My stories. After the University of Minnesota Veterinary Clinic vets screwed up and killed my dog, my faith in veterinarians was forever shattered, but my eyes were finally opened..." more
Ten Things Your Veterinarian Won't Tell You by Kelly Barron, Smart Money Magazine, August 16, 2005
Check out veterinarians in the news Agriculture Ministry (Israel) Protecting the Abusers, haareetz.com, Israel, April 30, 2007 "The ministry claims this is a matter of professional supervision
of investigative procedures and that the Veterinary Services is the body
most suited for this task. In practice, however, it amounts to a sort of
immunity. "Instead of mobilizing for the
active and systematic protection of animals that are subject to
exploitation and cruelty in so many cases, the Agriculture Ministry is
mainly engaged in protecting the authority that it fails to exercise in
any case, or in covering up for veterinarians who have needlessly
mistreated animals." more
Nanette Anderson Vet Clinic Owner Arrested Again, (South Carolina) myrtlebeachonline.com, June 13, 2007 "Anderson is not a licensed veterinarian in South Carolina, prompting the May charges, officials said." more
Dr. Penny Kelso Viewer [sic] React to Disciplined Lubbock Veterinarian (Texas), kcbd.com, June 4, 2007
Dr. Edward Frankel Hearing Held for Veterinarian (West Chester, Pennsylvania), dailylocal.com, November 10, 2006 "I said, 'Ed, you can't keep doing this, especially in front of the staff,'" Lisa Pasquarello, owner of the Honey Brook Animal Hospital, testified during a hearing for Edward Frankel on Thursday. "He said, 'I will handle the dogs any way I feel like.'" .... Litwin provided details of several
alleged incidents, including one that occurred in October of last year
while Frankel and Litwin were treating a German shepherd that needed to
have a growth removed from its neck. Dr. Marcel Christiaan-Rauch Dead vet's $1.7 million home may be seized, (Perth) thewest.com.au, March 7, 2007 Vet dies before manslaughter, sex abuse trial, PerthNow, news.com.au, March 6, 2007
Joshua Winston, DVM Sun City Veterinarian Found Not Guilty of Abusing Chihuahua, azcentral.com, September 9, 2008 Vindicated Veterinarian Recounts Ordeal, yourwestvalley.com, September 11, 2008 Board clears veterinarian of punching chihuahua, Arizona Republic, September 26, 2007 Vet Arrested in Chihuahua's Beating, (Phoenix, Arizona) readingeagle.com, June 11, 2007 Dog beaten, eye dislodged, vet charged, www.pet-abuse.com Recovering from the crash: A planner lays out a plan to help veterinarian Joshua Winston rally back from two big setbacks, cnnmoney.com, January 10, 2005
More veterinarians in the news
Groomers, Kennels, other Pet Care Services in the News J'Raes Pet Grooming, Purdy, Washington Dog groomer won't face charges in severed ear case (Tacoma), kirotv.com, February 22, 2007 The Pierce County Sheriff's Office said investigators located the owner of J'Raes Pet Grooming in Purdy, but the owner did not admit cutting the ear off of Anni Sherffius's dog Jasmine and super gluing it back in place. The ear fell off several days later as Sherffius was washing what she thought was dirt off the dog's ear. Celeste Rainone, Grooming by Celeste, Baltimore, Maryland Rajah's Killer Gets Jail Time, examiner.com, November 19, 2007
Rajah's Killer is Found Guilty, examiner.com, October 2, 2007 What killed Rajah the poodle?, examiner.com, February 21, 2007 “They called and said, ‘He bite me. He’s not behaving very well and there’s no excuse for that,’ ” Pine said. “What in the heck was being done to my dog? If they knew the dog was in distress, they should have called me. If they thought the dog was sick, they should have called me.” Pine said the business’ owner, Celeste Rainone, told her after returning Rajah that the dog was ill when Pine brought him to her, but Pine doesn’t buy that. “It’s suspicious. I think she might have been struggling with the dog,” she said. “We’re just devastated. This should not have happened to any animal.”
Boarding and Grooming Pet Center, Houston (now out of business). owner Michelle Moellenberndt Dog dies at kennel, was cremated without family's knowledge, click2houston.com, August 5, 2005 Kennel closes after cremation controversy
"A profession that has it both ways..." "And I say to [veterinarians], 'Let me suggest to you that you're a profession that has it both ways. On the one hand, you're a multibillion-dollar business where, when I come in to see you, you are relying on me having an emotional attachment to my animal so much so that I'm willing to spend whatever it takes to make that animal well. And you say to me in your waiting room, 'How's your boy? What's wrong with your kid? What's wrong with your baby?' And yet if you mess up, and I want you to be held accountable, you answer me with, 'It's a piece of property.' And I would suggest to you that if you actually believe that you should hang a plaque in your front office that says, 'You are hereby notified that we subscribe to the belief that your animal is a piece of property and will be treated as such here,' we'll see how long you stay in business. You just won't." Santa Ana, Calif.-based animal-law attorney Robert Newman, quoted in The $50,000 Mutt, eastbayexpress.com, June 11, 2003
Vaccination Info
Complaint to Texas Attorney General, 2002 WHDH Channel 7 News, Boston, "Pet Threat", May 18, 2005
Is your vet telling you about potentially deadly drugs?
FDA: Some medicines for your dog could be deadly, Boston, WBZT.com, September 20, 2006
Animals in Print: Emerging Issues Regarding Informed Consent
Metacam Kills
www.metacamkills.com
From Vet Techs A Veterinary Technician Speaks Out. This is not the only account we've received, or even the most graphic. A vet tech writes to ask, "What can I do to stop this vet?" As it turned out, nothing. More A Former Veterinary Technician's Account. "I am glad some philosophies and attitudes have changed, but it will require constant effort by organizations like yours before the "good old boys" networks will be broken up and their power structures dismantled. " More The Abusive Vet "Authorities must awaken to recognize that a veterinarian is just as capable of inflicting abuse as any individual....After all, the vet is in position -daily - to abuse defenseless animals behind closed doors, if he or she is inclined to do so....I have in my possession 30 pages of transcribed verbal statements given by four additional witnesses alleging neglect, abuse and killing of animals by the same veterinarian. Yet today this veterinarian is still practicing." More Veterinary Technicians -- The Toonces Project is looking for you. Please lend your voice to those who have none. Contact help@thetooncesproject.com
State slow to act after animal horrors by Lisa L. Colangelo and Thomas Zambito
The New York Daily News, May 28, 2005
Action Group Against Incompetent Vets
Related articles:
Vets Who Cause Suffering to Face Penalties, newstelegraph.co.uk, August 31, 2003.
"Campaigners claim that hundreds of pets are dying every year for want of adequate treatment. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the profession's ruling body, has been accused of tolerating the situation. Ministers want to tighten disciplinary procedures and root out such vets. The changes will include appointing more lay people to the Royal College's 12-member disciplinary body and give pet owners a right to appear at appeal hearings, according to a senior official at the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs." Vets Accused of Appalling Cruelty, newstelegraph.co.uk, March 1, 2003. "4,000-strong action group seeks to pressurise ruling body into stricter - and more open - disciplinary measures, reports Quentin Letts
Owners Tell of Their Poor Treatment
Healthy Dachshund's Shock Treatment English Setter Suffered for a Week
Visit the Bella Moss Foundation and read the heartbreaking story of loss by Jill Moss and her beautiful Samoyed, Bella, whose unnecessary death from MRSA has resulted in an official charity foundation in the U.K. to help other pets and their humans.
Bella Moss (England)
[Note from editor: I've had the pleasure of corresponding with Jill after she contacted me regarding Suki's Story and VAN. She is an amazing woman who is making great strides in the UK with the help of public and private support. Check out her site - it's outstanding and is no doubt saving many lives.- J.C.
Reports on First International Conference on MRSA in Animals, organized jointly by the University of Liverpool and the Bella Moss Foundation. Congratulations to Jill and Bella for bringing this about and helping to raise public awareness and save many animal lives. As Jill writes, "The British Veterinary Association and Royal College of vets need to implement strict guidelines for vets and nursing staff in how to avoid and control life-threatening infections....Animals dying of infections post-routine surgery is not bad luck. It is negligence!" {Source: Bella's Story, The Bella Moss Foundation)
Two Veterinarians GONE from San Antonio Animal Care Services! Read the series in the San Antonio Express-News that started it all William Lammers, DVM, resigned from the San Antonio Animal Control facility after a controversy surrounding his inhumane methods of gassing animals was exposed by the San Antonio Express News, along with his noncompliance with changes recommended by inspection authorities. Thanks to the efforts of concerned citizens and a superb investigative series by E-N staff reporter Lisa Sandberg, Lammers finally did one right thing -- he quit. Lammers had previously been disciplined by the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners for allowing illegal practice. That public record information was supplied to local animal advocates by The Veterinary Abuse Network. Roque Gonzales, DVM, was later let go by the city from his position at animal control and was the subject of an investigation by WOAI Troubleshooters . He also has a disciplinary record with the state board. To read the latest news and updates, or to contact Citizens for Pound Reform in San Antonio for volunteer opportunities, check out their web site at Change the SA Pound Related links:
Death by the Pound, San Antonio Express-News
"We speak of 'closure' in relation to grief as if it were the last dose of medicine that cures a horrible disease, or a door that can be shut to seal us from further sadness and loss. The word 'closure' has become a more polite form of suggesting that we 'get over our pain' and 'move on,' leaving the tragedy behind. However well intended, this term implies that there is a finite point when people finsih grieving and return to their 'old selves.' Boxes, books, and doors close; hearts do not. Life will go on. But life cannot be the same as before, and you are changed forever." -- Duke Community Bereavement Services
More on Suki the Cat
Suki Catalano (Texas) Suki's Story - Her death Suki Stories - Her life WARNING TO SAN ANTONIO PET GUARDIANS/OWNERS: A veterinarian's membership in a professional organization (American Association of Feline Practitioners, Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, etc.) does NOT necessarily constitute board certification in ANY SPECIALTY. If any vet states, implies, or fails to correct a client when referred to as a "specialist," that can be grounds for serious disciplinary action. ASK YOUR VET SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT HIS QUALIFICATIONS. A professional affiliation on a business card, advertisement, or brochure is NOT automatically a guarantee of certification. A vet can let an ignorant, trusting public believe what it wants and simply say nothing. THE CASUAL USE OF "SPECIALTY" TERMS ARE NOT SIMPLY WORD GAMES. MISREPRESENTING YOURSELF OR ALLOWING OTHERS TO MISREPRESENT YOU, OR REMAINING SILENT WHEN REFERRED TO AS A VETERINARY SPECIALIST IS SUBJECT TO SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
Is your veterinarian referring you to another vet, specialist, or facility for surgery or specialized treatment?
BEFORE YOU BLINDLY TRUST YOUR VET TO SEND YOU TO ANOTHER VET, DO YOUR HOMEWORK, OR YOUR PETS MAY PAY WITH THEIR LIVES When your veterinarian makes a referral:
The Southern California VMA, for example, continues to allow known violator of numerous Veterinary Practice Act statutes Robert L. Rooks, DVM, of VCA/All-Care Animal Referral Center in Fountain Valley, California, to speak at their meetings and buy dinner for their members. Some vets consistently and inexplicably STILL refer unsuspecting clients to Rooks who have NO IDEA that Rooks' license and premises permit were revoked (stayed) by the California board and how many pets died in his "care." He is still practicing and sees referrals every day. (See Breaking News for official release from the California board and IDA. See All-Care Lawsuits for victims' stories and media coverage of the Rooks case.)
NEVER TRUST YOUR VETERINARIAN OR ANY
PROFESSIONAL VETERINARY ORGANIZATION TO MAKE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS OR
REFERRALS TO YOU WITHOUT DOING YOUR OWN RESEARCH. GET THE VET'S COMPLETE
NAME AND NAME OF FACILITY TO DO A THOROUGH CHECK FOR A HISTORY OF
COMPLAINTS, INVESTIGATIONS, DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS, AND ANY OTHER
PROFESSIONAL PROBLEMS BEFORE YOU TRUST YOUR PET
WITH AN UNKNOWN VET.
What is Veterinary Abuse?
If you suspect any of the above, or any form of veterinary negligence, incompetence, or malpractice in conjunction with the treatment of your pet, contact the appropriate parties:
There's strength in numbers. Speak out against veterinary abuse, malpractice, and negligence. New figures just released from APPMA's 2005-2006 National Pet Owners Survey (NPOS) show pet ownership is currently at its highest level, with 63 percent of all U.S. households owning a pet which equates to more than 69 million households. That's up from 64 million in 2002 and 51 million in 1988 when APPMA's tracking began. According to the 375-page survey that tracks hundreds of pet ownership trends, Americans own approximately 73 million dogs, 90 million cats, 139 million freshwater fish, 9 million saltwater fish, 16 million birds, 18 million small animals and 11 million reptiles.
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this site is intended to be legal or medical advice. The Veterinary Abuse Network assumes no responsibility for actions taken as a result of information provided here, or provided by any links from this site. We are not responsible for the accuracy or content on any linked sites, or in any form of online or offline media, resources, or any personal web pages or sites, nor does their inclusion here constitute an endorsement of those sites. If you have a problem with any of the links included here, please contact the owners of those sites. Media coverage in newspaper, radio, television, online news agencies is PUBLIC RECORD. Disciplinary action taken by state licensing boards against a veterinarian is PUBLIC RECORD and must be provided by the boards upon request. A vet's complaint and investigation history may or may not be public record depending on the state. For information on filing a civil lawsuit against a veterinarian, please consult an attorney. For more information please read Disclaimers and Guidelines.
© The Veterinary Abuse Network Questions? Contact info@vetabusenetwork.com For technical questions email webmaster@vetabusenetwork.com Copyright 2005 Julie Catalano. Original text and photographs may not be reproduced, reposted, or distributed without permission.
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TRIBUTE SITES* ALABAMA CALIFORNIA Louie's Story FLORIDA GEORGIA ILLINOIS Peter's Story MARYLAND MICHIGAN MINNESOTA MISSOURI NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA OKLAHOMA PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA sheridantruth.com Ande, Rupert, Dixon, and Big George's Story TENNESSEE TEXAS Taddy's Story VIRGINIA Peanut's Story WASHINGTON FRANCE UNITED KINGDOM
MORE TRIBUTE SITES... Chester's Story Chloe's Story
Have you made a tribute site for your companion? To add your pet's site send link to
FEATURED SITES* UNITED STATES: Plus: Feline CRF Information Center If you have an elderly (geriatric) cat or one with kidney disease or CRF (Chronic Renal Failure), this site is a MUST. Only YOU are the rightful decision-maker for your cat. (See Suki's Story) CRF Recordkeeping - Accurate records are a MUST to ensure the safety of your cat. BUYER BEWARE: If you have a vet who does not keep accurate or complete records on a CRF cat - consider finding a vet who does, and ALWAYS get copies of records after EVERY VISIT. Scooter's Mail Order Supplies for CRF Read more about CRF here For Love of Dogs Canine/Human Relations LLC For the Love of the Dog Pet Lovers' Tips, News, and more AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats Type in veterinarian, veterinary, veterinary clinic, veterinary hospitals, or the name of the individual vet at www.ripoffreport.com to see consumer complaints California: All-Care Animal Referral Center/Robert L. Rooks DVM Lawsuits Plus: See California News for more articles on Robert Rooks and All-Care Veterinary Malpractice is Common Are Veterinarians Really Monitored? Association of Veterinarians for Animal Rights Incompetent, Negligent Veterinarian Master Checklist Jeff and Diane's Cathouse (Mr. Fluffy's Story) Texas Alliance for Complementary Animal Therapies Texas Humane Legislation Network Victims of Veterinary Abuse - Our World of Animals Great site for holistic animal care (and their people too!):
Petgate - Pet Owners Beware Texas Alliance for Complementary Animal Therapies FRANCE GREAT BRITAIN: Action Group Against Incompetent Vets The Bella Moss Foundation - Fighting MRSA
*PLEASE NOTE: The Veterinary Abuse Network is not responsible for the accuracy or content of the above sites.
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![[Blue Ribbon Campaign icon]](http://www.eff.org/br/br.gif)
Looks
like the United States isn't the only country having problems with its
veterinary regulatory agencies. The situation in England is downright
shocking, with abusive, negligent, incompetent vets being afforded even
more protection by the RCVS - The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
However, animal lovers have been mobilizing there as they are here, with
demands being made to open up the system to protect companion animals.
Any
form of deliberate mistreatment -- physical battering, psychological
torment, or medical
abuse -- of a living, sentient being by a veterinarian
for the purpose of inflicting pain,
suffering, fear, injury, or to cause death
