Rhode Island Man Charged After Operating on His Own Dog

February 5th, 2010 by Jeffrey P

Not being able to afford the surgery to remove a cyst from his 14-year labrador’s leg a Rhode Island man opted to perform the procedure himself. The man was apparently successful in removing the cyst however the labrador required a follow-up procedure to deal with the infection as a result of the at-home surgery. Alan MacQuattie pleaded no contest last week to misdemeanor charges of animal cruelty and unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine. He still insists he did not think there was anything cruel about it.

I certainly do not agree with what Mr. MacQuattie did but I am not sure how they classify this as unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine. That law is aimed at unlicensed veterinarians who open up a practice and profit from the practicing of veterinary medicine. Mr. MacQuattie was simply doing what he probably thought was best for his dog. Doesn’t mean it was the right conclusion to come to but nonetheless I do not think he thought he was doing anything wrong. If they are going to apply this law in this manner then where do they draw the line? If I accidentally injure one of my dogs while trying to clean their ears or eyes am I unlawfully practicing veterinary medicine?

Source: MSNBC