What is the definition of "negligence" in veterinary practice?

Negligence in veterinary practice is defined as the failure to provide the standard level of care that is expected from a veterinarian, which directly results in harm to the patient. This concept is rooted in the legal and ethical obligations of veterinary professionals to ensure the well-being of animals entrusted to their care.

In any veterinary setting, veterinarians are expected to adhere to established standards of practice that reflect current skills, knowledge, and technology. When a veterinarian does not meet these standards—whether through mistakes in diagnosis, inadequate treatment, or improper procedures—and this leads to injury or illness in an animal, it constitutes negligence.

This definition emphasizes the importance of a veterinarian's duty to their patients and the legal implications that arise if that duty is not fulfilled, highlighting the critical role of accountability in veterinary medicine.