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The CVBC has the authority and duty to investigate complaints about veterinarians in BC. The CVBC’s complaints process follows the framework set by the Veterinarians Act. The process is driven by the Investigation Committee who provides direction and decides how each complaint will be resolved. If a complaint proceeds to a discipline hearing, the Discipline Committee will determine the resolution.
The CVBC investigates allegations regarding the conduct or competence of veterinarians. The Veterinarians Act gives the CVBC authority to investigate complaints about or veterinarians and to address concerns that present a risk to the public.
If an investigation raises concerns about a veterinarian’s conduct or competency, the CVBC takes a remedial and collaborative approach to resolving those concerns.
The CVBC has the authority and duty to investigate complaints about veterinarians in BC. The CVBC’s complaints process follows the framework set by the Veterinarians Act. The process is driven by the Investigation Committee who provides direction and decides how each complaint will be resolved. If a complaint proceeds to a discipline hearing, the Discipline Committee will determine the resolution.
The CVBC investigates allegations regarding the conduct or competence of veterinarians. The Veterinarians Act gives the CVBC authority to investigate complaints about or veterinarians and to address concerns that present a risk to the public.
If an investigation raises concerns about a veterinarian’s conduct or competency, the CVBC takes a remedial and collaborative approach to resolving those concerns.
If you have a concern about the care your animal has received or your veterinarian’s conduct, often the best first step is to discuss the matter with your veterinarian. Many concerns relate to misunderstandings that can be resolved by clear and forthright communication. As well, when dealing with a major animal health issue, obtaining a second opinion may give you a different perspective or additional helpful information and added comfort regarding your questions.
If you are unable to resolve matters directly with your veterinarian, you may submit a formal complaint. To submit a formal complaint, you must deliver it to the Registrar in writing. The CVBC will not accept verbal or anonymous complaints. A complaint can be submitted to the CVBC office via e-mail to complaints@cvbc.pilotfish.dev, mail or fax. Contact information can be found here.
A complaint letter should include:
This information is necessary to ensure that the complaint is properly investigated.
Please note that we will generally share your complaint with the veterinarian to seek a reply.
The continuing use of a previously approved facility or practice name is addressed in the bylaws, s. 3.27, ‘Previously approved names’: A registrant whose facility or practice name was approved under former bylaws may continue with the use of that name and may transfer the facility or practice name to a new owner, who is required to comply with the bylaw provisions relating to facility and practice names as amended from time to time.
The CVBC makes every effort to handle all complaints as quickly as possible. You may be asked to provide additional information during an investigation. You are entitled to receive information about the progress of the investigation and to learn of its outcome.
The CVBC complaints process is confidential. Most complaints are resolved through the complaints process and do not proceed to discipline. Handling a complaint consists of several steps outlined below. As each complaint is unique, these steps provide a general outline subject to modification.
There are certain concerns that the CVBC is unable to address as they are not within our jurisdiction. If you submit a complaint, the CVBC is not able to:
