Ranchers want to stay ahead of any potential diseases or animal health issues, and a veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR) helps specify the responsibilities of the producer and veterinarian, as well as to meet legal obligations for some antibiotics and medications that might be needed should an animal become ill.
A valid VCPR requires the following:
- The livestock owner consents to entering into this VCPR.
- The veterinarian of record (VOR) has sufficient knowledge of the farm and animals.
- The VOR takes responsibility for making medical judgements regarding the health and welfare of cattle on the farm.
- The farm owner, farm management and farm workers agree to follow the VOR’s instructions.
- The VOR is available for follow up and agrees on a schedule for timely visits.
Remember, if farm owners, managers or workers use or administer drugs contrary to the VOR’s instructions, it is a violation of the VCPR, making this agreement null and void.
When requiring a veterinary feed directive (VFD), a rancher should check if the state or federal definition of the VCPR applies in his or her state. Visit the FDA VCPR jurisdiction document to find your state.
Download the Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship Agreement
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