South Carolina Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners

1. How do I obtain my drug license(s)?

South Carolina requires both a DEA and a state drug license. You may apply for both licenses through the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Bureau of Drug Control, by calling (803) 896-0634 or use www.scdhec.gov.

2. Where do I obtain my accreditation/certification to sign health certificates?

Accreditation to sign health certificates may be obtained through the U.S. Department of Agriculture - APHIS. International Health certificates are mailed to the U.S.D.A. Telephone (803) 788-1919 or use https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/nvap/ct_areavet.

3. Where do I mail interstate health certificates? What are phone number for inquiring about interstate health certificates and overseas health certificates?

Mail interstate health certificates to: Clemson LPHD, Post Office Box 102406, Columbia, S.C. 29224-2406. Contact their office at (803) 788-2260 or use www.clemson.edu/LPH/Lab.htm.

For overseas health certificates, call (803) 462-2910.

4. How do I join the South Carolina Veterinary Association?

You may contact the Association’s offices by calling (803) 254-1027 or use www.scav.org.

5. When practicing under a temporary license that requires “direct supervision”, is the licensed supervising veterinarian required to be on the premises at all times?

Yes, direct supervision means that a veterinarian currently licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the state of South Carolina is available on the premises and within immediate vocal communication of the supervisee. See S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(3).

6. When practicing under a temporary license that requires “immediate supervision”, is the licensed supervising veterinarian required to be on the premises at all times?

Yes, immediate supervision means that a licensed veterinarian is within direct eyesight and hearing range. See S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(6).

7. Are distance learning courses for veterinary technician’s acceptable courses for an animal health science degree?

Yes, as long as long the distance learning courses are offered by an AVMA accredited school.

8. Foreign Graduates

A foreign graduate must have received an Education Commission of Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) Certificate from the AVMA. 

For applicants who have not received their certificate but are applying to take the NAVLE exam, a letter from the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners must be submitted directly to the Board’s office attesting to the applicant’s enrollment and eligibility to take the NAVLE exam.

9. Is there a state exam? What are the dates for state exams?

The Board requires the passing of the online SC Jurisprudence exam.  The exam covers South Carolina statues and regulations pertaining to SC law for veterinarian medicine that can be found on the Board website at https://www.llr.sc.gov/vet/laws.aspx.

Once a completed application is received and approved, the applicant will then be made eligible to take the online jurisprudence exam. Notification will contain the applicant’s UserID and how to access the exam online. Exams are open book and are available twenty four (24) hours a day.

10. Is there a requirement that a veterinarian must own or be a part owner in a veterinary facility or practice in South Carolina?

No, that is not a requirement in the statutes or regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine.

11. Is it a must to renew on-line?

No.  The renewal application is provided on-line on the Board’s web site for the licensee to print, complete, and mail to the Board’s office.

12. If I wish to not renew, do I need to contact the Board’s office?

As a courtesy, it would be appreciated; and it would keep the licensee from getting unnecessary mail about non-renewal.

13. How long does it take to process an initial application for licensure?

Applications are processed on a daily basis.  Once a completed application is received and approved, the applicant will then be made eligible to take the online jurisprudence exam. Upon passing of the exam, the applicant will be processed through to licensure. 

If an applicant does not meet licensure requirements, this may result in the need for an application hearing before the full board or the application being denied. The applicant will be notified should this be the case and additional instructions provided on how to proceed.

14. When querying Licensee Lookup, how do I know if a licensee has been disciplined? Can I see the discipline?

If the licensee has incurred any disciplinary action, it will be indicated that there is discipline.  Board Orders for licensees are located on the Board’s web site for the public to review.  https://eservice.llr.sc.gov/PublicOrdersWeb/?divisionId=40

1. Are there specifics in the amount of continuing education (CE) hours a veterinarian should earn?

Thirty (30) hours of continuing education are required biennially in conjunction with the renewal cycle. Visit the Board CE webpage at https://www.llr.sc.gov/vet/ce.aspx for additional information.

2. Are there specifics in the amount of continuing education hours a veterinary technician should earn?          

Ten (10) hours of continuing education are required biennially in conjunction with the renewal cycle. Visit the Board CE webpage at https://www.llr.sc.gov/vet/ce.aspx for additional information.

3. Can hours of CE acquired in the current renewal period be applied toward the next renewal period?

No, CE hours cannot be carried over from one renewal period into another. 

4. How do I submit the required CE Hours?

CE hours and documentation are to be submitted through the CE Broker system, www.cebroker.com. Please do not submit to the Board office.  The Board will conduct a random audit after the close of the renewal period.

Veterinarians and Veterinarian Technicians may set-up a free basic account with CE Broker here: https://cebroker.com/sc/account/basic/.

1. Who serves on the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners?

There are 10 members on the Board who are all appointed by the Governor.  There are seven veterinarians - one each from each congressional district, one veterinarian at large from the state, one veterinary technician at large from the state, and one consumer member. Members must also have advice and consent of the Senate.

2. Can a veterinarian dispense pharmaceuticals without a veterinary-client-patient-relationship (VCPR)?

In accordance with S.C. Regulation 120-10(D), a veterinarian is prohibited from prescribing, dispensing, or administering a legend drug in the absence of an established VCPR.  The Board has interpreted this to mean that a veterinarian may prescribe and dispense from his or her own pharmacy for qualifying clients/patients, and may prescribe to a licensed pharmacy but may not act as a pharmacy for non-clients/patients.

3. Who can administer the rabies vaccination?

On May 20, 2010 Senate Bill 328 passed to amend S.C. Code of Law 47-5-60 relating to inoculating pets against rabies, so as to provide that these inoculations must be administered by a licensed veterinarian or someone under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian, as defined in S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(3).

The veterinarian is required to sign a certificate of inoculation, keep a copy of it on file for not less than three (3) years, furnish a serially numbered metal tag to match the certificate, and provide the owner of the pet one (1) copy of the certificate of inoculation.

Rabies vaccination records shall comply with all DHEC requirements, including, but not limited to record content, record retention, public health record retrieval request responses, location of records and ownership of records. Compliance with all DHEC requirements is the professional responsibility of the veterinarian performing the vaccination and signing the rabies certificate. S.C. Code of Regulations Section 120-8(B)(4).

4. How long should a veterinarian retain patient records?  What is best practice with communications notations in records?

South Carolina requires that records be maintained for a minimum of three (3) years after the last entry or as otherwise provided by law. S.C. Regulation Section 120-8(C)(1).

It is considered "best practice" to make detailed notations in every patient's record per all client communication. It is advised to note the mode of the contact (email, text, telephone call, face to face), the time, and the content of the information. 

5. What are the rules for keeping client records and radiographs?

Records shall be maintained for a minimum of three (3) years after the last entry, or as otherwise provided by law.  S.C. Regulation 120-8(C)(1).

A radiograph is the property of the facility within which the original radiograph was exposed and it, or a copy, must be released upon the request of another veterinarian who has the written authorization of the owner of the animal to whom it pertains and such radiograph(s) shall be returned within thirty (30) days to the facility where the original exposure took place.  S.C. Regulation 120-8(C)(2-4).

The record-keeping requirement in S.C. Regulation 120-8(B)(3) shall not apply to the treatment of economic animals. Records for economic animals may be maintained on a per client basis.

6. Do I need to display my license certificate or my license renewal pocket card at my primary place of business?

Yes, all veterinarians licensed to practice in this state will conspicuously display (1) a valid South Carolina license and (2) a current license renewal certificate, at their primary place of business. S.C. Code of Law 40-69-250(D).

7. How do I notify the Board of a name change?  Do I need to notify the Board of a change in my practice name and location?

You must notify the Board in writing and send legal documentation of the names change such as a copy of your marriage or divorce decree certificate.  S.C. Code of Law 40-69-250(E).

Indicate how the name change should be listed.

Fees are applicable for duplicate copies of your license certificate(s) and renewal cards.

Changes in practice names and locations must be reported to the Board as it is the responsibility for licensees to keep all contact and practice information current with Board. (The Board does not approve names or changes in names of practices.) If the Board notices a duplicate name, you will be informed.

8. What is the difference between an “emergency clinic” and an “emergency hospital”?

An emergency clinic or emergency hospital is a facility which advertises or otherwise purports to provide veterinary medical services during specified hours of operation or during periods when these services are not normally available through other facilities. S.C. Code of Law 40-69-290.

S.C. Code of Law §40-69-20(4) "Emergency clinic" means a facility having as its primary function the receiving, treatment, and monitoring of emergency patients during its specified hours of operation.

S.C. Code of Law §40-69-20(5) "Emergency hospital" means a facility whose primary function is the receiving, treatment, and monitoring of emergency patients during its specified hours of operation and includes the confinement of emergency patients.

9. How can I get help with a problem with alcohol or other drug problems and preserve my career?

Licensed Veterinarians and Licensed Veterinary Technicians who experience problems with alcohol or other drug problems can find help with the South Carolina Recovering Professional Program (SCRPP). SCRPP is a confidential professional substance abuse program uniquely tailored to assist individual healthcare professionals in getting quality services and preserving their careers. Early identification, referral, and monitoring help assure good recovery from this progressive, deadly disease.

Licensees who enroll with RPP before their substance abuse problems impact their practice are not disclosed to the licensing board while in compliance with RPP’s requirements. SCRPP’s team of specialized professionals identifies resources for each individual that best match their personal needs and situations. That individualized personal care from RPP builds strong relationships and provides tools to save or reactivate their careers.

SCRPP’s monitoring also provides employers, the licensing board, and patients with assurance of safe, effective practice. A solid record of participation with RPP certifies a licensee’s personal commitment to professionalism today and in the future.

If you or a colleague is experiencing a problem with substance abuse or dependence, you can find help by contacting SCRPP at 1-877-349-2094 (toll free). Learn more about SCRPP at http://www.scrpp.org.

10. Is there a section in the Code of Law regarding information on animals, livestock, and poultry?

Code of Laws Title 47 - Animals, Livestock, and Poultry

CHAPTER 1 - CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

CHAPTER 3 - DOGS AND OTHER DOMESTIC PETS

CHAPTER 4 - STATE LIVESTOCK-POULTRY HEALTH COMMISSION

CHAPTER 5 - RABIES CONTROL

CHAPTER 6 - PSEUDORABIES CONTROL AND ERADICATION ACT

CHAPTER 7 - ESTRAYS; LIVESTOCK TRESPASSING OR RUNNING AT LARGE

CHAPTER 9 - LIVESTOCK GENERALLY

CHAPTER 11 - SALE, GRADING AND INSPECTION OF LIVESTOCK

CHAPTER 13 - DISEASES AND INFECTIONS

CHAPTER 15 - FEEDING OF GARBAGE TO SWINE

CHAPTER 17 - MEAT AND MEAT FOOD

CHAPTER 19 - POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION LAW

CHAPTER 20 - CONFINED SWINE FEEDING OPERATIONS

CHAPTER 21 - FARM ANIMAL AND RESEARCH FACILITIES PROTECTION ACT

CHAPTER 22 - RENDERING OF LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY RAW MATERIAL

11. What is difference between “immediate supervision”, “direct supervision” and “indirect supervision?”

Immediate supervision means that a licensed veterinarian is within direct eyesight and hearing range.         S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(6).

Direct supervision means that a veterinarian currently licensed to practice veterinary medicine in this state is available on the premises and within immediate vocal communication of the supervisee. S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(3).

Indirect supervision means that the supervising licensed veterinarian is available for immediate voice contact by telephone, radio, or other means, and shall provide consultation and review of cases at the veterinary facility. S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(7).

1. What is the law for abandoned animals?

An animal is considered abandoned when the animal has been placed in the custody of a licensed veterinarian for boarding, treatment, or other care and is unclaimed by its owner or the owner's agent and the owner or the owner's agent has not paid the charges for the boarding, treatment, or other care within ten (10) days of notice of these charges being provided to the owner or the owner's agent in accordance and no other payment agreement with the owner or the owner's agent has been reached.

The notice required must be given to the owner of the animal or the owner's agent at his last known address by registered mail or by certified mail, return receipt requested, and must contain a statement that if the animal is not claimed and if the charges are not paid within ten (10) days after receipt of the notice, the animal may be sold, donated, turned over to the nearest humane society or animal shelter or otherwise disposed of as the person having custody of the animal considers proper.

The owner of an abandoned animal is deemed to have relinquished all rights and claims to the animal by virtue of the abandonment.

Providing notice to the owner or the owner's agent relieves the custodian of the animal of any liability for the sale, donation, euthanasia, or other disposal of the animal. S.C. Code of Law 40-69-280 and 40-69-285.

2. What are the responsibilities of a veterinarian in emergency care?

During non-business hours, veterinarians are required to provide emergency service for their patients or refer them to an emergency clinic. Alternatively, the veterinarian may make arrangements to work with another veterinarian in his or her area to provide emergency care.

3. Internet Pharmacies

The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding announcing their intent to develop a Veterinary Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites Program (VIPPS). The NABP developed the program in 1999 in response to public concern for the safety of Internet pharmacy practices.

VIPPS-certified pharmacies have been determined to meet and must follow stringent criteria developed by a broad-based coalition of regulatory agencies, professional associations and consumer-advocacy groups.

The program will not be expanded to offer VIPPS certification to legitimately operating Internet pharmacies and veterinarians who meet the criteria and offer veterinary drugs online.

The program will give veterinarians a creditable source to refer clients when they seek to obtain prescription medications via the Internet.

4. Are veterinarians required to release prescriptions to clients?

A veterinarian is not required to release a prescription to the client; however, the AVMA and the Board strongly encourage doctors to release a prescription unless there is a "legitimate medical reason."

5. Who owns the patient's medical records?

It is well established that the veterinarian is the owner of the patient records. While the veterinarian owns the records, the client has a right to see the records and to have a copy of them.

The doctor may charge a reasonable fee for copying the records, including administrative costs if the file is very large; and the doctor may collect those fees prior to releasing the records.

Records may not be withheld for non-payment of a bill.

There are other means of collecting bad debts. A signed release for records is always recommended, whether or not the original or copies of the records are released.

6. Is it a state law that a veterinarian has to test for heartworms when a dog has consistently been on heart guard?

No, it up to the discretion of the veterinarian.

7. Is there a Heartworm Preventive Medicine law?

There is not a specific state law regarding heartworm medication. The veterinarian is responsible for making sure the animal is in proper health to receive the medication.

8. Musculoskeletal Manipulation (MSM)

Musculoskeletal manipulation (MSM) may be performed only by a veterinarian who has examined the animal patient and has sufficient knowledge to make a diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal and/or a licensed chiropractor working under the direct supervision of a veterinarian as defined in S.C. Code of Law 40-69-20(3).

It is the responsibility of the treating veterinarian to determine that MSM will not be harmful to the animal patient and to discuss a course of treatment with the owner of the animal.

Since MSM is considered to be an alternative (nonstandard) veterinary therapy, the veterinarian shall obtain a signed acknowledgement from the owner of the patient or his/her authorized representative and retain it as part of the patient's permanent record.

When the supervising veterinarian has ceased the relationship with the chiropractor who is performing the MSM treatment, the chiropractor shall immediately terminate such treatment. A chiropractor who fails to conform to the provisions of this policy, and in turn S.C. Code of Law 40-69-10, when performing MSM upon an animal shall be deemed to be engaged in the unlicensed practice of veterinary medicine.

9. Massage Therapy

An animal massage therapist should be involved with a licensed veterinarian in some way. It is the responsibility of the veterinarian to determine that the therapy will not be harmful to the animal and to discuss a course of treatment with the owner of the animal.

The veterinarian should be readily available or have made arrangements for follow-up evaluation in the event of adverse reactions.

Since massage therapy is considered an alternative veterinary therapy, the veterinarian shall obtain a signed acknowledgement from the owner of the patient or his/her authorized representative and retain it as part of the patient's permanent record.

When the veterinarian has ceased the relationship with the massage therapist who is performing the massage treatment, the therapist shall immediately terminate such treatment.

10. Practice Standards for: Licensed Veterinary Technicians; Unlicensed Veterinary Assistants.

Licensed veterinarians shall supervise the practice of licensed veterinary technicians and unlicensed veterinary assistants. The duties and required level of supervision is listed in S.C. Regulations 120-9 for licensed Veterinary Technicians and unlicensed veterinary assistants.

11. Is it illegal for a veterinarian to sell/dispense split prescription medications?

While there is no legal prohibition to selling and dispensing split prescription medications, it could pose problems for veterinarians with their prescriptions and labels. The practice of pill splitting is not encouraged unless the pills are scored.

S.C. Regulations 120-10(D) (3) (b) has the requirements for labeling of repackaged legend drugs, which include directions for use and name, strength and amount of drug dispensed. Additionally, the AVMA has published Guidelines for Veterinary Prescription Drugs which outline the Basic Information for Records (R) Prescriptions (P), and Labels (L). Licensees are encouraged to review prior to engaging in pill splitting.

12. Can licensed veterinarians treat and/or prescribe animals supplements containing cannabis derivatives?

Currently, there are no approved animal drugs derived from cannabis. Animal drugs must generally receive premarket approval by FDA via the New Animal Drug Application (NADA) process. The manufacture and marketing/sales of drugs in interstate that have not been FDA approved is a violation of federal law.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates drugs, food, and medical devices for humans and animals. Such products require FDA approval in order to be legal.

The FDA regulates dietary supplements through Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). And states: "Dietary supplements are products for humans and does not include products for animals. 21 U.S.C. § 321(ff) (1) (E)." https://agriculture.sc.gov/scda-regulators-to-notify-industry-regarding-cbd-and-hemp-in-food-and-feed-products-in-the-market-place/

Please see these additional resources for more information on this topic:

AVMA Article Link: Cannabis use and pets: What Veterinarians Need To Know

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/veterinarians-and-public-health/cannabis-use-and-pets

FDA Latest Consumer Update: What You Need to Know (And What We're Working to Find Out) About Products Containing Cannabis or Cannabis-derived Compounds, Including CBD: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-need-know-and-what-were-working-find-out-about-products-containing-cannabis-or-cannabis
AAVMA Article Link- (For members of AAVMA only): Cannabis, Cannabis-Derived, and Cannabis-Related Products: Regulatory Status FAQ https://www.avma.org/cannabis-cannabis-derived-and-cannabis-related-products-regulatory-status-faq

13. Is it legal for veterinarians to sell CBD products?

It largely depends on the intended use of the product and how it is labeled and marketed. Even if a CBD product meets the definition of 'hemp' under the 2018 Farm Bill, its marketing and sale must comply with other applicable laws, including the FDA and its regulations and those at the state level.

FDA has expressed its concern regarding products containing CBD and other cannabis -derived compounds that are being marketed for therapeutic use without approval by FDA. They have stated that, "Selling unapproved products with unsubstantiated therapeutic claims is not only a violation of the law, but can also put patients at risk, as the products have not been proven to be safe or effective." ⁴ Therapeutic claims include not only those on the label of the product, but also those used in promotion (e.g., websites, advertisements, circulars, testimonials) that suggest the intended use(s) of the product.

The marketing of unapproved treatments also raises the possibility that animal owners may choose to use these unapproved products in lieu of approved therapies to treat serious diseases and conditions in their animals, which may result in treatment failures and increased animal suffering.

The use of unapproved drugs can put patients at risk and may create a legal risk for veterinarians who administer, prescribe, dispense, or recommend them because they have not been evaluated for efficacy and safety by the FDA. Risk may be heightened when approved treatments are available and are not utilized, or when patients for which unapproved drugs have been administered, prescribed, dispensed, or recommended are adversely impacted (either side effects or treatment failures).

14. My state has laws that allow cannabis to be sold for medical use without FDA approval. Doesn't that mean, as a veterinarian, that I can legally use and/or recommend them for my patients?

No. To date, laws that have been passed by states that remove state restrictions on the use of cannabis for medical or recreational use by people do not apply to their use in animals.

14. What are the parameters compounding of veterinary drugs?

On June 26, 2020, the SC Board of Pharmacy Regulations were amended to address compounding of veterinary drug preparations.

99–47. Compounding of Veterinary Drug Preparations.

A. A licensed pharmacist, practicing in a permitted pharmacy, may compound veterinary drug preparations to be used by veterinarians in their offices for administration to animals.

B. Compounded office use drug preparations may be dispensed by a veterinarian to an owner of an animal for the treatment of a bodily injury or disease of the animal only in an urgent or emergency situation for use in a single course of treatment, not to exceed a 168-hour supply.

C. The compounded veterinary drug preparations may not be distributed by an entity other than the pharmacy that compounded such veterinary drug preparations. This does not prohibit administration of a compounded drug preparation in a veterinary health care setting or dispensing of a compounded drug preparation pursuant to a prescription drug order executed in accordance with federal and state law.

1. No More Homeless Pets Program
2. Consumer Rights to Reimbursement from Pet Dealers, Pet Shop, or Pet Breeders: Title 47, Article 13: SECTION 47-13-160
3. Pet Loss
   
4. Pets and Toxic Foods

5. Who handles animal cruelty and abandonment?

The Board would refer you to the police department in the area where the crime is believed to have been committed.  It may also be helpful to contact the local animal organization handling animal control issues. 

Only a law enforcement officer may seize an animal and charge a citizen with a crime.  Local animal organizations like the S.P.C.As and The Humane Societies may be able to provide some support in cases of animal cruelty and abandonment; however, they are not able to remove animals from property or charge someone with a crime.

In some cases, animal shelters are operated by city and county animal control officers. In this case, shelter workers may respond to suspected animal cruelty, but only if they are also law enforcement officers.

In South Carolina, animal cruelty includes acts of commission, omission, or abandonment.

6. Where is the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Code of Ethics?

Code of Ethics for the American Veterinary Medical Association is located at: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/principles-veterinary-medical-ethics-avma

7. What is the correct use of Rabies Vaccinations when they are labeled one (1) year and three  (3) years?

Rabies vaccinations are administered to dogs and cats based on principles of immunology. When an animal is vaccinated for rabies for the first time, it must be revaccinated one (1) year later. This is true of animals vaccinated as youngsters and animals with unknown vaccination history. This second vaccination is designed to boost the immune system’s immunity against rabies.

Rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats are labeled based upon their duration of immunity (DOI). The duration of immunity is the length of time that vaccination should provide immunity from disease. Manufacturers market rabies vaccinations with DOI of one (1) year or three (3) years. The primary and secondary vaccinations can be labeled with a DOI of one (1) year or three (3) years. However, regardless of the label, the secondary vaccination must be given one year later. After the secondary vaccination, the schedule can be followed based on the DOI label.

8. Are there any AVMA Council on Education accredited schools of veterinary medicine in South Carolina?

No, the nearest accredited schools are:

University of Georgia: www.vet.uga.edu

North Carolina State University: www.cvm.ncsu.edu

Auburn University: www.vetmed.auburn.edu

Tuskegee University: www.tuskegee.edu

9. Are there any AVMA Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities accredited schools of veterinary technology in South Carolina?

Yes, the schools are:

Tri-County Technical College, Pendleton, SC: www.tctc.edu

Trident Technical College, Moncks Corner, SC: www.tridenttech.edu  

Piedmont Technical College, Greenwood, SC: https://www.ptc.edu

10.    Can I use the term Veterinary Nurse?

South Carolina Code of Regulations 120-8 and 129-9 say that neither unlicensed veterinary aides nor licensed veterinary technicians can call themselves a veterinary nurse. Further, the South Carolina Board of Nursing Practice Act, in S.C. Code Ann. Section 40-33-30, restricts the use of the term, "nurse," to those licensed by the South Carolina Board of Nursing to engage in the practice of nursing in this state.

11.   What needs to be in a medical record?

In accordance with https://www.scstatehouse.gov/coderegs/Chapter%20120.pdfS.C. Regulations 120-8(B), the following items are to be included in the medical record:

1. Name, address and telephone number of the owner
2. Name and identification of animal including age, sex, species and breed
3. Medical History:
4. i) Treatment dates: Beginning and ending dates of each animal’s treatment. If the animal was hospitalized for a period of time, include periodic notes of the status. If the animal was seen on one date only, that date should be recorded.
5. ii) Diagnosis or condition at the beginning of animal care: The animal’s weight and temperature should be recorded. Additionally, physical examination notes should be recorded. What is the animal’s overall demeanor, medical condition, etc.? As is reasonable, note abnormalities in specific body systems.

iii) Medication and treatment, including amount, route, and frequency of administration

1. iv) Progress and disposition of the case: Treatment notes should be recorded, progressive status of the animal should be noted, client communication should be noted, and treatments or diagnostics that have been done or declined, should be noted.
2. v) Surgery, radiology, laboratory information: Surgery progress notes, monitoring information, etc. should be noted. Descriptions of X-rays, and copies of laboratory values, notes, etc. should be noted.

11. Can licensed veterinarians treat and/or prescribe animals supplements containing cannabis derivatives?

No. Currently, there are no approved animal drugs derived from cannabis. Animal drugs must generally receive premarket approval by FDA via the New Animal Drug Application (NADA) process. The manufacture and marketing/sales of drugs in interstate that have not been FDA approved is a violation of federal law.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates drugs, food, and medical devices for humans and animals. Such products require FDA approval in order to be legal.

The FDA regulates dietary supplements through Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). And states: “Dietary supplements are products for humans and does not include products for animals. 21 U.S.C. §321(ff)(1)(E). ” https://agriculture.sc.gov/scda-regulators-to-notify-industry-regarding-cbd-and-hemp-in-food-and-feed-products-in-the-market-place/

Please see these additional resources for more information on this topic:

AVMA Article Link: Cannabis use and pets: What Veterinarians Need To Know

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/veterinarians-and-public-health/cannabis-use-and-pets

FDA Latest Consumer Update: What You Need to Know (And What We’re Working to Find Out) About Products Containing Cannabis or Cannabis-derived Compounds, Including CBD:    https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-need-know-and-what-were-working-find-out-about-products-containing-cannabis-or-cannabis

AAVSB Article Link- (For members of AAVSB only): Cannabis, Cannabis-Derived, and Cannabis-Related Products: Regulatory Status FAQ https://www.avma.org/cannabis-cannabis-derived-and-cannabis-related-products-regulatory-status-faq

12. Is it legal for veterinarians to sell CBD products?

It largely depends on the intended use of the product and how it is labeled and marketed. Even if a CBD product meets the definition of 'hemp' under the 2018 Farm Bill, its marketing and sale must comply with other applicable laws, including the FDA and its regulations and those at the state level.

FDA has expressed its concern regarding products containing CBD and other cannabis -derived compounds that are being marketed for therapeutic use without approval by FDA. They have stated that, "Selling unapproved products with unsubstantiated therapeutic claims is not only a violation of the law, but can also put patients at risk, as the products have not been proven to be safe or effective." Therapeutic claims include not only those on the label of the product, but also those used in promotion (e.g., websites, advertisements, circulars, testimonials) that suggest the intended use(s) of the product.

The marketing of unapproved treatments also raises the possibility that animal owners may choose to use these unapproved products in lieu of approved therapies to treat serious diseases and conditions in their animals, which may result in treatment failures and increased animal suffering.

The use of unapproved drugs can put patients at risk and may create a legal risk for veterinarians who administer, prescribe, dispense, or recommend them because they have not been evaluated for efficacy and safety by the FDA. Risk may be heightened when approved treatments are available and are not utilized, or when patients for which unapproved drugs have been administered, prescribed, dispensed, or recommended are adversely impacted (either side effects or treatment failures).

13. My state has laws that allow cannabis to be sold for medical use without FDA approval. Doesn't that mean, as a veterinarian, that I can legally use and/or recommend them for my patients?

No. To date, laws that have been passed by states that remove state restrictions on the use of cannabis for medical or recreational use by people do not apply to their use in animals.