I’m a dog lover. I have 2 little doggies and if I had more time, I would have even more. Crazy, huh? I mean I have a busy law practice, raised 4 kids, and I like to travel. So why on earth would I want more pets?
Research has shown that animal owners live longer and healthier lives. Our little companions give us comfort anduconditional love. Our furry friends are now being used to help people with a variety of health issues, including high blood pressure, depression, stress, and to stave off one of the worst demons of all- loneliness.
So that’s why I was disturbed last week to read in The Orlando Sentinel that a Leesburg veterinary clinic lost their patient, a 3 year old Labrador retriever. That’s right, LOST the dog. How does that happen? Did they just open the back door of the clinic and say, go ahead Fido, take a walk???
And here’s the kicker. What did the vet do? Told the owner to go home and wait, She filed a police report. Nothing happened.
After hiring an attorney, the angry owner has filed a complaint with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The Board regulates professional standards for veterinarians. And, clearly, not all vets conform to the highest standards. In the last five years, the Department has not revoked a single license, although 8 were suspended, 86 were placed on probation, and 3 vets voluntarily gave up their licenses. One vet was accused of kicking a dog while suspending the pup by the collar and leash to administer a sedative.
But, veterinary malpractice cases are hard to prove. And even if you can prove negligence, in most states, including Florida, the monetary damages are based on the value of the pet. Animal companions are classifed as personal property, just like your favorite chair.
That may change some day. I recently attended a Florida Bar convention where an entire morning was devoted to Animal Rights Law. Law schools are increasingly offering classes in that area.
In the meantime, ask lots of questions about your vet’s kennel safety standards and their “lost dog” procedure. As with all things important to us in life, we must be vigilant. And don’t forget about your pets when you draw up your will or trust. My law practice includes pet trusts, an important, but often forgotten part of estate planning.
One of my favorite quotes is from The Little Prince, by Antoine De Saint-Exupery:
“People have forgotten this truth…But you must not forget it. You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”.
Call the Law Office of Debra G. Simms for your free estate planning or animal rights consultation. Toll free: 1-877-447-4667.
