NAC638.0175. “Veterinarian-client-patient relationship” interpreted.

For the purposes of this chapter, a veterinarian shall be deemed to have a “veterinarian-client-patient relationship” concerning a nonhuman animal if the veterinarian satisfies all of the following conditions:

     1. The veterinarian assumes the responsibility for making medical judgments concerning the health of the animal and the need for medical treatment of the animal.

     2. The veterinarian has knowledge of the present care and health of the animal sufficient to provide at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal. This knowledge must be acquired by:

     (a) Conducting a physical examination of the animal; or

     (b) Visiting the premises where the animal is kept in a timely manner that is appropriate to the medical condition of the animal.

     3. The veterinarian obtains the informed consent of the client for medical treatment of the animal.

     4. The veterinarian obtains the agreement of the client to follow the instructions provided by the veterinarian for the care and medical treatment of the animal.

     (Added to NAC by Bd. of Veterinary Med. Exam’rs by R059-01, eff. 10-12-2001)