Handling a veterinary board complaint starts with the record
CURRENT BRIEF VERSION: Veterinary professionals facing a board complaint should expect a formal, state-specific process, but not necessarily discipline. In a January 20, 2026, Vet Blast Podcast episode published by dvm360, Beth Venit, VMD, MPH, DACVPM, chief veterinary officer at the American Association of Veterinary State Boards, discussed how complaints are handled and why they may be increasing. Broader guidance from AAVSB, AVMA PLIT, and state boards shows the same pattern: complaints are filed with state veterinary boards, investigations often center on records, communication, and informed consent, and many cases do not end in sanctions. Venit has also discussed the legal importance of practicing within a spectrum of care—offering options when gold-standard care is not feasible, while still meeting the minimum standard of care and documenting those discussions. California’s board says complaint details remain confidential during investigations, while AAHA reported that about 90% of complaints reviewed there do not result in disciplinary action. (dvm360.com)
Why it matters: For veterinary teams, the clearest takeaway is operational, not theoretical. Medical records, informed consent, and documented client communication are repeatedly described as the strongest defense if a complaint is filed. AVMA PLIT advises clinicians to notify their carrier immediately, avoid discussing the matter publicly, and understand that malpractice coverage may not cover license defense unless separate protection is in place. Beth Venit has also said strong documentation is often the best resource for getting a complaint dismissed, especially when clinicians are navigating spectrum-of-care decisions and need to show what options were offered, discussed, and declined. (blog.avmaplit.com)
What to watch: Expect continued attention to complaint prevention through better recordkeeping, consent workflows, staff training, and clearer protocols for discussing care options when clients cannot pursue ideal treatment. Boards and risk-management groups keep emphasizing documentation standards, and broader industry conversations around team wellbeing and leadership may also shape how practices support clinicians through the stress of complaints. (aavsb.org)