Can I Take Legal Action if a Vet Euthanized My Dog Without My Permission?

Question

I brought my sick dog to the vet on Saturday. Different treatment options were discussed, including hospitalization, IV therapy, and testing. I made it clear that I wanted my dog to be saved and told the vet to do whatever it took. The vet explained that treatment could cost thousands of dollars, but I agreed to move forward. We also briefly discussed euthanasia, but I did not want my dog euthanized.

There were financial options available, including insurance that I had recently obtained, although I later had to cancel it because of this unexpected situation. We agreed that the vet would perform tests and eventually hospitalize my dog. However, when I was later called into the room, I discovered that they had euthanized my dog without my approval. No tests had been performed first. I felt like I was going to faint.

This experience has caused me extreme stress physically and mentally. I have been emotionally drained and have experienced chest tightness, depression, confusion, and overwhelming grief. My dog, Mindy, was loving, beautiful, funny, caring, devoted, trustworthy, and overall a very good dog. I am struggling deeply with the loss.

Answer

I am very sorry to hear about your dog. It is important to review any documents that you may have signed.

Oregon’s Administrative rule pertaining to veterinary medical facilities states, in part: “Documented consent shall be obtained and a physical exam conducted prior to performing euthanasia…”

Oregon law also provides, in part, that a veterinarian or veterinary technician is not civilly liable for euthanizing a seriously injured or seriously ill animal if “the animal has been brought to the veterinarian or veterinary technician by a person other than the owner of the animal; and the veterinarian or veterinary technician does not know who owns the animal or is unable to contact an owner of the animal before a decision must be made with respect to emergency treatment of euthanasia…”

People who believe that their animal was euthanized without legally required consent may commence a civil lawsuit for monetary damages. Also, complaints about veterinarians may be made to the Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board. Depending on the results of the Board’s investigation, a veterinarian may face sanctions, such as a civil penalty and having his/her license suspended or revoked.