The veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is the basis for interaction among veterinarians, their clients and their patients.
A VCPR exists when your veterinarian has:
- Assumed responsibility for diagnosing and treating your animal(s) and you agree to follow the veterinarian’s instructions;
- Seen your animal(s) at least once in the past 12 months and is aware of the keeping and care of your animal(s) by examination or through visits to where you keep your animal(s);
- Has sufficient knowledge of your animal to provide the proposed service;
- Offered you emergency coverage for follow-up evaluation in the event of adverse reactions or failure of the treatment regimen.
Prescribing a prescription product requires the existence of a VCPR. Your veterinarian will determine the best course of treatment for your animal(s).