What is a breach of the veterinarian-client relationship?

A breach of the veterinarian-client relationship occurs when the veterinarian fails to uphold the responsibilities that are inherent in this professional bond. The bond relies on trust, communication, and the expectation that the veterinarian will provide a certain standard of care while also maintaining the confidentiality of the client’s and pet’s information.

Failing to provide a standard of care reflects negligence or a lack of the expected professional expertise or actions that a reasonable veterinarian would perform in similar circumstances. This not only endangers the health and well-being of the animal but also undermines the trust that the client places in the veterinarian.

Breaching confidentiality is another critical aspect. A veterinarian is obligated to keep clients' information private, which is essential for maintaining trust and complying with ethical and legal standards. Sharing sensitive health information without consent can severely damage the client-veterinarian relationship and can have legal consequences.

In contrast, regularly updating client contact information and requesting referrals are practices that enhance communication and strengthen the relationship. Sharing pet health information with the public, while potentially harmful, may not constitute a direct breach of the client-veterinarian relationship unless it involves confidential information. However, both getting consent and handling this information responsibly is key to maintaining the relationship.