The Council of the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO) is seeking input from the public on a draft standard regarding humane animal handling and restraint by veterinarians.
“Animal welfare is central to the practice of veterinary medicine,” said CVO president Steven Jacobs, DVM. “Handling animals and restraint are part of daily practice for the majority of veterinarians and the public trusts us to demonstrate compassion when doing so.”
The draft standard is posted on CVO’s website for feedback until Nov. 16.
“This draft standard outlines the expectations for veterinarians in this important area as reflections of the Veterinarians’ Oath and guided by the Five Freedoms, which are internationally accepted practices in the care and handling of all animals,” Dr. Jacobs said.
To assist in the development of this policy, the council appointed an advisory group to draft the standard with consideration of current educational, organizational, and professional resources and approaches related to the humane handling and restraint of animals.
“The draft standard reinforces the importance of monitoring, assessing, and addressing the fear, stress, pain, and anxiety of animals during treatment and the necessity to educate clients about the humane handling and restraint required for examination and treatment,” said Jan Robinson, CVO registrar and CEO.
