
What is Happening:Oklahoma's State Legislature is considering passage of bills (House 3202 & Senate 1999, 2000) that will allow non-certified people to perform veterinary services in our state.
Oklahoma's Veterinary Practice Act already provides two levels of state certification for these services: Veterinarian and Veterinary Technician. These careers are available to all Oklahomans who wish to pursue state certification.
This bill would allow people failing to receive certification from the state to perform veterinary services, with no protections for the livestock and pet owners.
Remember, this bill will affect both livestock owners and pet owners and does not only apply to "teeth floating" of horses. This bill would set a dangerous precedent that WILL be used to eliminate nearly all protections for our citizens
Livestock and Pet Owners need to act immediately: Contact your state legislator by phone, fax, email, or even in person. There is a form at the bottom of this page where you can find the contact information for your senator and representative.
This issue is moving FAST! Please contact your representative today... before it is too late.
Click here to view the various Bills for yourself.More Resources Regarding this Legislation Lawmaker Questions Unintended Consequences of Ag Bill Equine Dentistry Talking Points NEW: Breakdown of the Bills, Including a Compromise NEW: Texas Equine Dentistry School Contradicts Bills View a Sample Letter to a Congressman Right To Work, Right To Choose Background of the House Bill 3202 Pet Owner ALERT!! HOUSE BILL 3202Equine Dental HealthDr. Brett Boatsman discusses general aspects of equine dentistry.
Background of the House Bill 3202In 2008 and 2009 the Oklahoma State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (OSBVME) acted on complaints pertaining to equine tooth floating and reproductive services involving cattle. In both instances prescription labeled drugs (RX) were being used by lay individuals to perform their tasks for hire. The Board cited both individuals/groups for practicing veterinary medicine without a license and possessing and using RX drugs without a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR). The actions that followed were astounding and deserve the attention of all who practice veterinary medicine as well as all citizens who wish to preserve professional conduct in the management of animal welfare and health by licensed individuals.
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Pet Owner ALERT!! HOUSE BILL 3202.It is extremely important that you, your spouse, staff, and anyone that care about the welfare of the pets and livestock in the State of Oklahoma make those calls. The more calls and letters we can do, the more that the Ag. Committee and the legislature as a whole will realize that this bill is detrimental to the welfare of animals in Oklahoma and is bad for the citizens of Oklahoma. Find your state legislator by using the form at the bottom of this page
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Equine Dentistry Talking Points1. Current Law The practice of equine dentistry has been in the Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act since 1991 and has always restricted the practice to licensed veterinarians. [Sec. 698.11, A.(1)] The law did not change last spring as has been reported. The current Veterinary Practice Act does not prohibit owners, their employees, and helpers from caring for or treating animals belonging to the owner.
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Tooth Floating DemonstrationDr. Mark Bianchi demonstrates modern equine dental care including tooth floating from start to finish.
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