What is a “Consent Form?”
In 2007, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) ruled that “owner consent” refers to when an owner agrees to treat their animal. They stated that the informed consent doctrine from human medicine shouldn’t apply to veterinary care, as animals are considered property under law. AVMA and other organizations aim to clarify this legal distinction.
If your clinic provides any service, you must have a signed consent form from the owner or their representative , confirming their understanding of the procedure and its risks, and releasing the clinic from liability.
What should be in a consent form?
- Establishes the name of the owner, the physical address of the pet (required in most states) and the name and description of the pet.
- Establishes the person signing the form is the owner or owner’s representative. It establishes that the person signing has a right to make decisions on behalf of the pet.
- Establishes the owner accepts the risks of anesthesia and surgery.
- Establishes that it may not be possible to do a pre-surgical exam if the pet is not able to be handled.
- Establishes what services the patient will receive on what date. All services must be listed in the consent form. These services are what the owner is agreeing to.
- Establishes what will happen if the owner does not pick up the animal.
- Releases liability for the clinic.
- Provides consent to photograph or video the pet and/or owner and use for social media, grant applications and press releases.
But, will they pre-sign them?
Heck yeah they will! Our research show about 65% of clients will pre-sign the consent form. Most people sign them on their phones.
Here is a link to our consent form templates. Download and make them your own!
