>Help!  I think a vet killed my ferret (follow up)
>What should I do about this?  The vet killed my animal.  Should I do small
>claims to recover the costs?  A higher court?  Nothing?  After all if a
>doctor killed a human a lawsuit would be definate.
 
First, I am very sorry about your recent and tragic loss.  It is an awful
thing.
 
Ok, so you think your vet screwed up big time.  Hey, it happens.  Laws vary
from state to state on recovering losses through small claims court so it
pays to check.  Many states limit the award amount to the actual dollar
value of the animal, and nothing more.  Also, be prepared for the difficulty
in finding an "expert" witness, i.e., another vet, who is willing to testify
"in person" against the defending vet.  Many courts will require this to go
to trial or even to a mediator.
 
But civil court is only one avenue.  There is another highly effective
avenue and it is cost free to the plaintiff.  You can contact the Board of
Professional Regulation in your state.  As most vets will tell you,
receiving a call from this group is the last thing any vet wants!  Be
prepared to state your case concisely and appropriately.  First, you will
need to contact them for any forms required which they will send you.  After
the BPR receives your complaint, they will contact you and the vet in
question.
 
However, it's always a good idea to allow your vet the time and opportunity
to explain what happened and why *before* adjudicating to another level.
Talk to other vets in the area and find out if what transpired is the
"standard of care" in your area.  This "standard" is the golden measure your
vet will be judged against.  Also ask around if any other ferret owners have
had similarly bad experiences with the vet in question.  Contact clubs,
shelters, etc., in your area.
 
Most vets are caring and competent, however, there are a few bad apples in
every profession.  Negligence is more difficult to discern when it comes to
ferrets because of their "exotic" nature.  Far less is known about ferrets
than dogs or cats.
 
Please keep in mind that anaphylactic reactions to medications, anesthesia,
even latex, do occur.  Any medication or foreign substance poses a potential
threat, especially if the history of the animal is not known or established.
 
Also, I am not any kind of legal or veterinary authority so my advice in
this matter comes only from experience and not credentials.
 
best wishes,
until next time,
alphachi
 
PS.  Good Luck!
[Posted in FML issue 2182]