The duty of care in veterinary medicine

The duty of care in veterinary medicine refers to the legal and ethical obligation that veterinarians have to provide a standard of care that ensures the health and well-being of animals in their care. This means that veterinarians must act with competence, knowledge, and compassion, following established protocols to diagnose and treat animals responsibly. If a veterinarian fails to meet this standard, leading to harm or injury, they may be held liable for negligence. Essentially, it reflects the commitment of vets to prioritize the welfare of animals while performing their professional duties.