I support the changes described in the Change.org petition. I do not want students to work on my dogs in any capacity unless I am notified and have given consent.

Is there some reason that owners should not be told who will be treating a pet, what they will be doing, and what their credentials are? Before forking over hundreds or thousands of dollars to a clinic, veterinary hospital, or veterinary school? And risking the life of one who, though a quadraped, is essentially another family member?

I can think of none.

Clinics, veterinary hospitals, and veterinary schools hold out the appearance of professionalism, full licensure, and credentialling. In any case in which less than a fully licensed veterinarian will be treating a pet, it should be brought to the public's attention clearly, unambiguously, and not buried in the fine print.

I agree with the wording of the petition, the individual paying to have professional care on their pet should be informed if a student of any capcacity will be working with the animal.  Students should be under strict observation during their time interacting with the pet as well.  

Thank you for your consideration.

If a pet is not going to be treated by a licensed professional, then the owner of that pet should be informed of that fact.  It's fine that students get to work alongside licensed vets to treat animals, but it's not fine that students are allowed to treat pets on their own, and make decisions on their own about the treatment necessary for the pet's good health.  If a student is allowed to evaluate and treat a pet without the watchful guidance of a licensed veteranarian, then the pet's owner needs to be made very well aware of that fact, even to the extent of signing a consent form that has been fully explained to the pet owner (and not just handed to the pet owner to sign).

As a lifelong Virginia resident and pet guardian, I would never allow my canines and felines to be treated at Virginia Tech UNLESS I knew that a fully licensed veterinarian were providing direct care to my animal family member. If a resident (NOT as student) were to perform an exam or procedure on my pet, I would expect to be informed and asked to sign a written consent ONLY if a licensed veterinarian were on sight and supervising the entire exam or procedure from start to finish without interruption. Virginia Tech's vet school should operate like a teaching hospital for human patients. After all, pets are equally important members of our family and sometimes they even provide medical support to their humans ( those patients with heart conditions, epilepsy, blindness, etc.). Thank God and thank Dog for Lee Henkel's Change.org petition to open the eyes of all of us unsuspecting pet guardians. Change must be made immediately at all vet schools to save the lives of our animal family members and to make Virginia Tech's vet school a shining example and gold standard of the way ethical institutions function and operate. The only acceptable correction to the vet school's practices is to REQUIRE written informed consent from the patient's human that a licensed veterinarian will assist and supervise (DIRECTLY ON SITE) a resident's medical treatment of an animal.

"Compassion, in which all ethics must take root, can only attain its full breadth and depth if it embraces all living creatures and does not limit itself to mankind."  --  Albert Schweitzer

It seems silly that this is not already in place.  Of course pet owners should be fully informed of who is administering care to their pets and have the opportunity to decline the services of a vet student or resident if they fear there is not enough oversight!

My pets are valued members of my family, and they deserve the best care I can provide for them. I support hands-on experience for veterinary students, but I strongly believe that that experience should be closely supervised, especially in the case of junior students. To that end, I support these changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine: 

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition: 
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on observation and diagnosis of the patient within the last 36 hours. 

And replace it with these three definitions: 
“Direct supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is on the premises at the time the patient is receiving veterinary care and is quickly and easily available to assist the person being supervised. 

“Immediate supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is in the immediate vicinity of where veterinary care is being provided and is actively engaged in supervising this care throughout the entire period it is being provided. 

“Indirect supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is not on the premises but is available for immediate contact by telephone, radio, or other electronic means; has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the patient; the patient has been examined by the supervising veterinarian as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires; and the patient, if previously anesthetized, has recovered to the point of where it can safely be left in the care of a licensed veterinary technician. 

In 18VAC150-20-130. Requirements for practical training in a preceptorship or externship, delete the following section: 
B. Prior to allowing a preceptee or extern in veterinary medicine to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed veterinarian shall receive written approval from the client. 

Replace 18VAC150-20-130.B with a new section, number to be determined: 
18VAC150-20-XXX. Owner notification and consent required for practice by students, externs, and preceptees; and owner notification required for practice by interns and residents 

Subject to the further provisions of this Section 150-20-XXX, where students, externs, preceptees, interns, or residents will practice on a privately owned animal, in advance of such practice the owner shall be notified; and in the case of students, externs, or preceptees the owner’s consent shall be obtained. 

A. In any situation where an individual who is enrolled in but has not yet graduated from an AVMA accredited school or college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology performs a task within the scope of §54.1-3800 of the Code of Virginia at a time when the owner is not present with the animal and observing the student, the owner shall be notified in advance and consent obtained. However, the following tasks do not require notification and consent: 
1. Grooming; 
2. Feeding; 
3. Cleaning; 
4. Restraining; 
5. Assisting in radiology; 
6. Setting up diagnostic tests; 
7. Prepping for surgery; 
8. Dental polishing and scaling of teeth above the gum line (supragingival); or 
9. Filling of Schedule VI prescriptions under the direction of a veterinarian licensed in Virginia. 

B. In any situation where an intern or resident will participate in diagnosis or will order, perform, or assist with any diagnostic or surgical procedure or treatment, the owner shall be notified in advance and shall be provided with an explanation of the role of the intern or resident and the role of the supervising veterinarian. 

C. In any case where notification is required, if the owner is on the premises, the notification (and consent if applicable) shall be in writing. If the owner is not on the premises, notification may be provided (and consent obtained if applicable) by telephone or electronic communication. In an emergency situation, care may be provided before notification is given, but the owner shall be fully informed of the care provided, and by whom, at the first opportunity. 

D. For students, externs, and preceptees notification shall include: 
a. name; 
b. level of education 
c. task(s) to be performed; 
d. whether the task will be performed with immediate, direct, or indirect supervision; and 
e. name of the supervising veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician

Sincerely, 
Elizabeth Lynch

Owners should be told when someone other than a fully licensed vet is working with their pets. -- Edna Whittier Floyd Va 

I realize that it is a very sad that in this great country of ours, that we have doubled our population yet we have not seen fit to double our veterinary schools or students.  That being said, I understand that with so many animals

to care for, it is difficult to have enough graduated Vets to oversee operations being performed by 1st through 4th Vet students.  However, I think that it is only fair that the owners of these animals are informed & have the

ability to say yes or no to the service of care.

Thank you...

Student supervision will insure a more highly qualified graduate, thus insuring better care for our domestic and other animals in the future.

I send this petition because I feel that the practice of letting residents practice with little or no professional supervision is wrong.  It isn’t good patient care, it's experimentation.

The Teaching Hospital website appeals to the love and concern people have for their animals, saying “many animals are referred to our hospital as they have challenging ailments that require the best of what modern veterinary medicine can offer” and “Their (the faculty’s) expertise assures the best possible results for your animals.”  The site also says “Residents and interns work closely with clinical faculty-members to provide you and your animal with an excellent health care experience.”  To promote your program this way and then let students and residents practice independently without either the pet owners' or referring veterinarians' knowledge of what you are doing is dishonest and unprofessional.

Pet owners and referring veterinarians expect your Teaching Hospital to be more than a training program; they expect it to also function as a specialty referral center, and to put the needs of patients first.  Why else would someone take an animal for treatment there?

Please ensure that your faculty are actively involved in every case, on every visit, and on every day of an inpatient stay.  Residents are there to learn, and they aren’t ready to handle complicated referrals on their own.

Sincerely,

     Henry Ickes, Arlington, VA

While I fully understand the importance of direct experience as part of the education of veterinarians, I strongly object to my pet -- whom I have entrusted to a licenced veterinarian -- being instead treated, without my knowledge or consent, by a trainee or student vet.

When student teachers have their field experiences, they are not simply handed a class full of kids and told to have at it. They are coached, supervised, and directly observed throughout the process.  Why should not our pets and animals have the same sort of protection while in the care of our veterinarians as our children do while in the care of their teachers?

Specifically: I expect that *any* time my pet is to be treated by *anyone* but a licenced veterinarian, I will be notified, and that any time a serious procedure is to be performed, I give my consent before it begins.

I do not want students practicing on my pets!  

The quality of care of my beloved pets is a choice for me to be able to make. It is inconceivable to me that any veterinary practice can assume that choice for me. My question is:  What are the intended motives behind not advising an owner the exact qualifications of the individual(s) to whom I am asked to care for my pet?  

Informed consent is one of the hallmarks of our democracy. VA Tech should be supporting this petition as an example of its willingness to be a model for all animal care both in the state and elsewhere. I would willingly give consent to have a student treat my animals for any number of medical procedures, but not for any and all procedures, and as the "owner" of the animal as well as the one who pays the bills, final say should be left up to me. Keeping people in the dark only serves to justify their suspicions.

I support the changes described in the change.org petition because it is inconceivable to me that I or anyone else would not be 100% fully advised as to how our animals are being medically treated.  Thank you.

When I take my animals to a licensed veterinarian for treatment, I want to know who will be treating them.  If students, interns, or residents are to be involved in any way, I want to be asked for consent.  I am willing to pay good money to get the best care for my animals and should have a say in who treats and cares for them.

I support these changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine: 

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition: 
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on observation and diagnosis of the patient within the last 36 hours. 

And replace it with these three definitions: 
“Direct supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is on the premises at the time the patient is receiving veterinary care and is quickly and easily available to assist the person being supervised. 

“Immediate supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is in the immediate vicinity of where veterinary care is being provided and is actively engaged in supervising this care throughout the entire period it is being provided. 

“Indirect supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is not on the premises but is available for immediate contact by telephone, radio, or other electronic means; has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the patient; the patient has been examined by the supervising veterinarian as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires; and the patient, if previously anesthetized, has recovered to the point of where it can safely be left in the care of a licensed veterinary technician. 

In 18VAC150-20-130. Requirements for practical training in a preceptorship or externship, delete the following section: 
B. Prior to allowing a preceptee or extern in veterinary medicine to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed veterinarian shall receive written approval from the client. 

Replace 18VAC150-20-130.B with a new section, number to be determined: 
18VAC150-20-XXX. Owner notification and consent required for practice by students, externs, and preceptees; and owner notification required for practice by interns and residents 

Subject to the further provisions of this Section 150-20-XXX, where students, externs, preceptees, interns, or residents will practice on a privately owned animal, in advance of such practice the owner shall be notified; and in the case of students, externs, or preceptees the owner’s consent shall be obtained. 

A. In any situation where an individual who is enrolled in but has not yet graduated from an AVMA accredited school or college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology performs a task within the scope of §54.1-3800 of the Code of Virginia at a time when the owner is not present with the animal and observing the student, the owner shall be notified in advance and consent obtained. However, the following tasks do not require notification and consent: 
1. Grooming; 
2. Feeding; 
3. Cleaning; 
4. Restraining; 
5. Assisting in radiology; 
6. Setting up diagnostic tests; 
7. Prepping for surgery; 
8. Dental polishing and scaling of teeth above the gum line (supragingival); or 
9. Filling of Schedule VI prescriptions under the direction of a veterinarian licensed in Virginia. 

B. In any situation where an intern or resident will participate in diagnosis or will order, perform, or assist with any diagnostic or surgical procedure or treatment, the owner shall be notified in advance and shall be provided with an explanation of the role of the intern or resident and the role of the supervising veterinarian. 

C. In any case where notification is required, if the owner is on the premises, the notification (and consent if applicable) shall be in writing. If the owner is not on the premises, notification may be provided (and consent obtained if applicable) by telephone or electronic communication. In an emergency situation, care may be provided before notification is given, but the owner shall be fully informed of the care provided, and by whom, at the first opportunity. 

D. For students, externs, and preceptees notification shall include: 
a. name; 
b. level of education 
c. task(s) to be performed; 
d. whether the task will be performed with immediate, direct, or indirect supervision; and 
e. name of the supervising veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician

Sincerely, Robert Poignant 300 Lansing Ave., Lnchburg, VA 24503-2744

As a long-time pet owner in Virginia, I was concerned to learn that I might not see a licensed veterinarian for my pet when visiting the veterinary clinic.  Veterinary students and interns are allowed, by law, to treat my pet without informing me that they are not a licensed veterinarian, leaving me with the assumption that my pet is being treated by the person that I want it to be treated by and that I am paying for, which is not the case. This is fraud. Please ensure that the language prevents the consumer from fraud (intentional or otherwise).

To:
Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine

I support these changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine:

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition:
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on observation and diagnosis of the patient within the last 36 hours.

And replace it with these three definitions:
“Direct supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is on the premises at the time the patient is receiving veterinary care and is quickly and easily available to assist the person being supervised.

“Immediate supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is in the immediate vicinity of where veterinary care is being provided and is actively engaged in supervising this care throughout the entire period it is being provided.

“Indirect supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is not on the premises but is available for immediate contact by telephone, radio, or other electronic means; has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the patient; the patient has been examined by the supervising veterinarian as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires; and the patient, if previously anesthetized, has recovered to the point of where it can safely be left in the care of a licensed veterinary technician.

In 18VAC150-20-130. Requirements for practical training in a preceptorship or externship, delete the following section:
B. Prior to allowing a preceptee or extern in veterinary medicine to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed veterinarian shall receive written approval from the client.

Replace 18VAC150-20-130.B with a new section, number to be determined:
18VAC150-20-XXX. Owner notification and consent required for practice by students, externs, and preceptees; and owner notification required for practice by interns and residents

Subject to the further provisions of this Section 150-20-XXX, where students, externs, preceptees, interns, or residents will practice on a privately owned animal, in advance of such practice the owner shall be notified; and in the case of students, externs, or preceptees the owner’s consent shall be obtained.

A. In any situation where an individual who is enrolled in but has not yet graduated from an AVMA accredited school or college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology performs a task within the scope of §54.1-3800 of the Code of Virginia at a time when the owner is not present with the animal and observing the student, the owner shall be notified in advance and consent obtained. However, the following tasks do not require notification and consent:
1. Grooming;
2. Feeding;
3. Cleaning;
4. Restraining;
5. Assisting in radiology;
6. Setting up diagnostic tests;
7. Prepping for surgery;
8. Dental polishing and scaling of teeth above the gum line (supragingival); or
9. Filling of Schedule VI prescriptions under the direction of a veterinarian licensed in Virginia.

B. In any situation where an intern or resident will participate in diagnosis or will order, perform, or assist with any diagnostic or surgical procedure or treatment, the owner shall be notified in advance and shall be provided with an explanation of the role of the intern or resident and the role of the supervising veterinarian.

C. In any case where notification is required, if the owner is on the premises, the notification (and consent if applicable) shall be in writing. If the owner is not on the premises, notification may be provided (and consent obtained if applicable) by telephone or electronic communication. In an emergency situation, care may be provided before notification is given, but the owner shall be fully informed of the care provided, and by whom, at the first opportunity.

D. For students, externs, and preceptees notification shall include:
a. name;
b. level of education
c. task(s) to be performed;
d. whether the task will be performed with immediate, direct, or indirect supervision; and
e. name of the supervising veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician

As the owners of valuable livestock and beloved pets, and as clients of veterinarians throughout the Commonwealth, it is vital to the people of Virginia to know who is making the medical decisions regarding their animals' care.  These recommended changes will ensure that they have that information and may make informed decisions regarding the continued patronage of a particular veterinary practice.

Thank you,

S. Dawn Heyse

I support the petitioner's request as summarized on this Town Hall site and as described in more detail in the Change.org petition.  If I take my cats to a veterinary practice, I have the right to know who will be treating my pets. If a student is going to be providing medical treatment, I want to know what type of supervision he/she will receive and from whom. I want to have the right to refuse student involvement. I think that it's disrespectful not to inform clients and obtain their consent.   In general I think that there should be limits on what kinds of care/treatment students can provide based on their level of education and experience -- these decisions shouldn't be left totally to the discretion of the veterinarian who is supervising the student.  

I have spoken with many of my friends who have pets and they all agree they want to be notified when students are involved in the pet's care. This seems like good common sense to me, there is no reason not to notify the owners about who is providing veterinary care.

I support the changes described in the Change.org petition regarding owner notification when students will be treating our beloved pets   I understand the need for students to practice and learn - but only if they are supervised and only if we, the pet owners, know and give consent.

Thank you for your consideration.

Rebecca Dameron

As someone who originally planned on going to vet school I recognize the need for hands-on experience. However, it seems like common sense that all students, interns, and externs be supervised, and that the owner has given prior consent.

Thank You

I am totally favorable to full disclosure and full transparency regarding veterinary student assistance or practice regarding my family members--often considered pets.  I want to be told in advance if a student is being asked to offer any service for my family and this should be a minimum standard.  What level and type of service and level of supervision by the practicing vet needs full disclosure in advance as well.  I like the model I have seen used in some physicians office.  The Dr says am I willing to see the doctor in training, I say yes, the in training doc does an exam, makes recommendations, then my regular physician comes back in and reviews all with me present.  And sometimes a discussion happens about recommendations because agreement is not automatic.  I'm for this kind of supervised learning.  And beyond diagnosis right up to practice where an intern is supervised on site when surgery is required. 

I was a student social worker 35 years ago and worked with clients in a public mental health clinic.  They were always told that I was a student working under supervision and were given the option of working with me.  Some declined and we respected their right to decide that their problems were not going to be well served by a student.  Our pets cannot register their approval; we must do that for them.   To avoid this due process is very wrong.

To: Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine

As a multi-pet household living near Virginia Tech, I support the below-noted changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine. I would expect the same treatment for my 4-legged family as I would expect for myself in the medical system. It appears clear to me that the current statutes do not adequately protect the animals we seek to serve.

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition:
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on...

I support these changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine:

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition:
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on observation and diagnosis of the patient within the last 36 hours.

And replace it with these three definitions:
“Direct supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is on the premises at the time the patient is receiving veterinary care and is quickly and easily available to assist the person being supervised.

“Immediate supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is in the immediate vicinity of where veterinary care is being provided and is actively engaged in supervising this care throughout the entire period it is being provided.

“Indirect supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is not on the premises but is available for immediate contact by telephone, radio, or other electronic means; has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the patient; the patient has been examined by the supervising veterinarian as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires; and the patient, if previously anesthetized, has recovered to the point of where it can safely be left in the care of a licensed veterinary technician.

In 18VAC150-20-130. Requirements for practical training in a preceptorship or externship, delete the following section:
B. Prior to allowing a preceptee or extern in veterinary medicine to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed veterinarian shall receive written approval from the client.

Replace 18VAC150-20-130.B with a new section, number to be determined:
18VAC150-20-XXX. Owner notification and consent required for practice by students, externs, and preceptees; and owner notification required for practice by interns and residents

Subject to the further provisions of this Section 150-20-XXX, where students, externs, preceptees, interns, or residents will practice on a privately owned animal, in advance of such practice the owner shall be notified; and in the case of students, externs, or preceptees the owner’s consent shall be obtained.

A. In any situation where an individual who is enrolled in but has not yet graduated from an AVMA accredited school or college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology performs a task within the scope of §54.1-3800 of the Code of Virginia at a time when the owner is not present with the animal and observing the student, the owner shall be notified in advance and consent obtained. However, the following tasks do not require notification and consent:
1. Grooming;
2. Feeding;
3. Cleaning;
4. Restraining;
5. Assisting in radiology;
6. Setting up diagnostic tests;
7. Prepping for surgery;
8. Dental polishing and scaling of teeth above the gum line (supragingival); or
9. Filling of Schedule VI prescriptions under the direction of a veterinarian licensed in Virginia.

B. In any situation where an intern or resident will participate in diagnosis or will order, perform, or assist with any diagnostic or surgical procedure or treatment, the owner shall be notified in advance and shall be provided with an explanation of the role of the intern or resident and the role of the supervising veterinarian.

C. In any case where notification is required, if the owner is on the premises, the notification (and consent if applicable) shall be in writing. If the owner is not on the premises, notification may be provided (and consent obtained if applicable) by telephone or electronic communication. In an emergency situation, care may be provided before notification is given, but the owner shall be fully informed of the care provided, and by whom, at the first opportunity.

D. For students, externs, and preceptees notification shall include:
a. name;
b. level of education
c. task(s) to be performed;
d. whether the task will be performed with immediate, direct, or indirect supervision; and
e. name of the supervising veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician

.

I support the changes described in the formal petition Lee Henkel has published at Change.org because I think they are realistic and reasonable. People who are paying to have their pet diagnosed and treated by a licensed veterinarian are entitled to expect that their pet will be diagnosed and treated by the vet, not a student. While some veterinary procedures (like giving rabies shots) are routine, and most pet owners would probably prefer to have them handled by students who might offer a reduced fee, I think pet owners have a right to insist that the fully licensed veterinarian of their choice handle diagnostic and surgical procedures.

I fully support this petition and the effort by the petitioner to protect our pets.  I believe that this is a great beginning but needs to go further in protecting our pets. 

This informed consent that an owner agrees to allow a student to care for the pet, MUST be in writing.

This consent must be given at the time that the pet is being cared for.  This consent needs to be a one time only consent for that day for that pet for that student.  The next time the customer brings a pet in to be treated, if a student is going to treat that pet, then the whole informed consent needs to be gotten again.

Owners MUST be given a copy of the consent.  This is very important.  The board requires that the acknowledgement of vet's hours be signed by the client. This is supposed to be given to the client as a separate document but it is usually given in with all the other first visit documents.   However, the client is not given a copy for their records, they only sign it on the first visit to the vet and 10 years later when the vet says the pet has to stay overnight so they can "keep an eye on her", the client believes that they will be doing so.

Owners must have a clear and easy way to "opt" out.  I will personally be notifying my vet that students are not to care for my furry family members.  This will be in writing.

We as pet owners must do everything that we can to protect our pets, the alternative is the pet is killed due to poor, negligent care and this board does not hold vets accountable, in my opinion.

Respectfully submitted

Molly Mittens (RIP) Mom  mollymittens7@gmail.com

All public services provided by the Virginia University system must have policies and follow policies with accountable oversite for the protection of the consumer: Esse quam videre!  Virginia Tech Veterinary  both appears and acts as though their services are not subject to public accountability, customer protection nor accountable oversite.  This must change.   Also, I believe this recommended change in policy would improve the national ranking of our veterinary schools. 

virginia can be the leader for Professional Standards in medical care for companion animals. Owner notification and consent must be made mandatory. Medical care and decisions must never be made without specific, lawful guidelines that include medical students working under strict guidance from veterinary doctors at all times and owner notification and consent for all medical care. The bond with an animal is as lasting as the ties of this world can ever be and in their time of medical need we must rely on specific protocol and guidelines used by the doctors in every situation.

Being a nurse, I understand the need for students to learn through the clinical experience. This was something we had to get permission for from the patients and/or their responsible party, and our clinical instructor was there and involved in all aspects of care we provided. I was surprised to learn that this is not the same for Virginia Tech veterinary students. Many that bring their pet to VT for vet services, this IS a family member, that is why they are paying quite a bit for these services. With that being said, it needs to be mandatory that all owners are informed of the involvement of all vet staff personnel and their role for their beloved pet. Patients or their responsible party must be informed and sign consent knowing who will be involved with any procedures that are done, and that should be the same here. When people bring their pets to VT vet services there is typically something wrong and they were referred to the teaching hospital. They are upset and worried about their family member so they don't ask who is following the students, they assume that there is a listened individual being an active participant, with the student, in all discussions and decisions for care services needed based on findings. If the students do not have that instructor to ensure they are taking everything into account prior to determining services needed, how do they know if they're doing the right thing? They may just get lucky for a while until their luck runs out, but that effects the pet and family. Please do the right thing and make it mandatory. It will be a win-win for all parties. 

There should be owner notification and consent for a student to provide services to our pets and senior supervision.

I support these changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine: 

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition: 
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on observation and diagnosis of the patient within the last 36 hours. 

And replace it with these three definitions: 
“Direct supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is on the premises at the time the patient is receiving veterinary care and is quickly and easily available to assist the person being supervised. 

“Immediate supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is in the immediate vicinity of where veterinary care is being provided and is actively engaged in supervising this care throughout the entire period it is being provided. 

“Indirect supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is not on the premises but is available for immediate contact by telephone, radio, or other electronic means; has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the patient; the patient has been examined by the supervising veterinarian as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires; and the patient, if previously anesthetized, has recovered to the point of where it can safely be left in the care of a licensed veterinary technician. 

In 18VAC150-20-130. Requirements for practical training in a preceptorship or externship, delete the following section: 
B. Prior to allowing a preceptee or extern in veterinary medicine to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed veterinarian shall receive written approval from the client. 

Replace 18VAC150-20-130.B with a new section, number to be determined: 
18VAC150-20-XXX. Owner notification and consent required for practice by students, externs, and preceptees; and owner notification required for practice by interns and residents 

Subject to the further provisions of this Section 150-20-XXX, where students, externs, preceptees, interns, or residents will practice on a privately owned animal, in advance of such practice the owner shall be notified; and in the case of students, externs, or preceptees the owner’s consent shall be obtained. 

A. In any situation where an individual who is enrolled in but has not yet graduated from an AVMA accredited school or college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology performs a task within the scope of §54.1-3800 of the Code of Virginia at a time when the owner is not present with the animal and observing the student, the owner shall be notified in advance and consent obtained. However, the following tasks do not require notification and consent: 
1. Grooming; 
2. Feeding; 
3. Cleaning; 
4. Restraining; 
5. Assisting in radiology; 
6. Setting up diagnostic tests; 
7. Prepping for surgery; 
8. Dental polishing and scaling of teeth above the gum line (supragingival); or 
9. Filling of Schedule VI prescriptions under the direction of a veterinarian licensed in Virginia. 

B. In any situation where an intern or resident will participate in diagnosis or will order, perform, or assist with any diagnostic or surgical procedure or treatment, the owner shall be notified in advance and shall be provided with an explanation of the role of the intern or resident and the role of the supervising veterinarian. 

C. In any case where notification is required, if the owner is on the premises, the notification (and consent if applicable) shall be in writing. If the owner is not on the premises, notification may be provided (and consent obtained if applicable) by telephone or electronic communication. In an emergency situation, care may be provided before notification is given, but the owner shall be fully informed of the care provided, and by whom, at the first opportunity. 

D. For students, externs, and preceptees notification shall include: 
a. name; 
b. level of education 
c. task(s) to be performed; 
d. whether the task will be performed with immediate, direct, or indirect supervision; and 
e. name of the supervising veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician

Many pets are family members to many people.  If a human family member was to be used for medical practice of medical students the family would have to authorize.  Any medical experiement humans parrticipate in has to be authorized.  the same should happen for any pet.

Many years ago, I was a nursing student, so I know that students need to have clinical practice.  But, the patient or the gardian or owner should be made aware that a student is treating them or their family member or pet, and that the student is closely supervised. If the person or owner is not comfortable with this, they should not have to be treated by the student.

I agree with Lee Henkel's petition and stance concerning pet owners' right to know whether it is a vet student or a certified veterinarian who will be in charge of the pet's care and diagnosis. 

I am a resident of Virginia and I support these changes to the Code of Virginia as they apply to the practice of veterinary medicine:

In 18VAC150-20-10. Definitions, delete the following definition:
"Immediate and direct supervision" means that the licensed veterinarian is immediately available to the licensed veterinary technician or assistant, either electronically or in person, and provides a specific order based on observation and diagnosis of the patient within the last 36 hours.

And replace it with these three definitions:
“Direct supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is on the premises at the time the patient is receiving veterinary care and is quickly and easily available to assist the person being supervised.

“Immediate supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is in the immediate vicinity of where veterinary care is being provided and is actively engaged in supervising this care throughout the entire period it is being provided.

“Indirect supervision” means the supervising veterinarian is not on the premises but is available for immediate contact by telephone, radio, or other electronic means; has given either written or oral instructions for treatment of the patient; the patient has been examined by the supervising veterinarian as acceptable veterinary medical practice requires; and the patient, if previously anesthetized, has recovered to the point of where it can safely be left in the care of a licensed veterinary technician.

In 18VAC150-20-130. Requirements for practical training in a preceptorship or externship, delete the following section:
B. Prior to allowing a preceptee or extern in veterinary medicine to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by a licensed veterinarian, a licensed veterinarian shall receive written approval from the client.

Replace 18VAC150-20-130.B with a new section, number to be determined:
18VAC150-20-XXX. Owner notification and consent required for practice by students, externs, and preceptees; and owner notification required for practice by interns and residents

Subject to the further provisions of this Section 150-20-XXX, where students, externs, preceptees, interns, or residents will practice on a privately owned animal, in advance of such practice the owner shall be notified; and in the case of students, externs, or preceptees the owner’s consent shall be obtained.

A. In any situation where an individual who is enrolled in but has not yet graduated from an AVMA accredited school or college of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology performs a task within the scope of §54.1-3800 of the Code of Virginia at a time when the owner is not present with the animal and observing the student, the owner shall be notified in advance and consent obtained. However, the following tasks do not require notification and consent:
1. Grooming;
2. Feeding;
3. Cleaning;
4. Restraining;
5. Assisting in radiology;
6. Setting up diagnostic tests;
7. Prepping for surgery;
8. Dental polishing and scaling of teeth above the gum line (supragingival); or
9. Filling of Schedule VI prescriptions under the direction of a veterinarian licensed in Virginia.

B. In any situation where an intern or resident will participate in diagnosis or will order, perform, or assist with any diagnostic or surgical procedure or treatment, the owner shall be notified in advance and shall be provided with an explanation of the role of the intern or resident and the role of the supervising veterinarian.

C. In any case where notification is required, if the owner is on the premises, the notification (and consent if applicable) shall be in writing. If the owner is not on the premises, notification may be provided (and consent obtained if applicable) by telephone or electronic communication. In an emergency situation, care may be provided before notification is given, but the owner shall be fully informed of the care provided, and by whom, at the first opportunity.

D. For students, externs, and preceptees notification shall include:
a. name;
b. level of education
c. task(s) to be performed;
d. whether the task will be performed with immediate, direct, or indirect supervision; and
e. name of the supervising veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician

As with a person's basic rights, I believe in disclosure & consent. If a vet tech or student will be deciding & performing medical procedures without supervision from an actual vet, a pet's owner should be informed & authorize procedures. This is in support of the Change.org petion http://www.change.org/petitions/virginia-board-of-veterinary-medicine-require-owner-consent-for-student-practice-on-our-animals?tk=A9tOiVAlzewursLLrIS3JfJMp2H8PDuha4hPdfYBxcE&utm_source=petition_update&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=petition_update_email

I support this petition, I cannot comprehend how full disclosure of who is providing care to my pet is not a good thing.  I understand that veterinary students need to work with animals to gain experience but I see no reason why pet owners should not be informed and allowed to decline such care if they so desire.  I also support the amendment to define supervision so that pet owners are aware of the level of involvment that is demonstrated by the supervising veterinarian.  I understand how an experienced veterinary resident would need less supervision than an intern but again I would want to know the supervising veterinarian's level of involvment.  Please consider making these changes for better transparency in veterinary care.

I should have the right to know who is treating my pets, whether that person is a licensed veterinarian, vet tech, or student, and I should be able to have full disclosure whether a student is providing veterinary treatment to my animals.

Reguardless of decisions made by the Board Of Veterinary Medicine should they choose to allow students to practice on animals without supervision the may be in violation of one or more regulations /(ie.)codes) of Virginia law ; suggest Va.Tech Legal Dept. check out the possibly the Vet School and the Univ as a whole being open to costly litigation.

I support the change.org petition. It makes no sense to me that we as animal owners wouldn't not have full upfront disclosure when it comes to the treatment of our animals. They are afterall out property, are they not? Wih the amount of money that is going into vetrinary care each year, how is it okay to not disclore WHO will be performing procedures on our animals? We as owners are paying for the procedure and expecting to get the best care possible. Please help us animal lovers take the best care of our pets by making it possible for us to provide the best for them.

I will never take an animal back to VA Tech after a visit a few years ago with my champion male. I was not permitted to go with him to get a urine sample and when he came back he was in so much pain he tried to bite anyone near him. This is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel...they do not bite..EVER. I found out later it was a student practicing on him...BAD.

If this rule is not passed I'm sure many other people will find the same thing happening to their animals.

It should be required that owners be informed and give consent for veterinary students to work with their animal. It's unethical to do otherwise. I strongly urge that a change be made to make this mandatory.

Thank you for your consideration of this critical issue.

especially since I had the terrible experience of losing a deeply loved dog on the operating table at Virginia Tech Vet School. Since the Veterinerian had done the procedure successfully before, there was no reason to make the deadly mistake that was done causing our beloved dog to die. I suspected that a student must have done the operation. 

I still feel like I should be compensated for this terrible mistake and re-imbursed with the tremendous amount of money paid them for a butchered procedure and killing our dog. 

Nan Fariss

Roanoke, Virginia