IDFPR Enforcement of Veterinary Medicine Practice Laws and Regulations

The primary statute that applies to veterinarians is the Illinois Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act. There are also extensive administrative regulations. The law and regulations include:

• Licensing standards and requirements
• Scope of veterinary practice and standards of care
• Education requirements and standards
• Disciplinary action for violations of laws and regulations

The significant degree of regulation for veterinarians reflects the government’s interest in protecting the health, safety, and welfare of citizens by promoting competent veterinary care. Only professionals who meet specific requirements are permitted to practice veterinary medicine in Illinois. IDFPR offers several licenses for veterinarian professionals including:

• Veterinarian, Licensed
• Veterinarian Technician, Certified
• Veterinarian, Controlled Substance

When Can a Veterinarian Lose His or Her License — or Face Professional Discipline — in Illinois?

The Illinois Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act contains numerous types of conduct that can warrant disciplinary action. Examples of issues that are regulated by the Act and the corresponding administrative rules include:

• Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining a license or providing information to IDFPR
• Conviction of a felony or certain misdemeanors
• Professional incompetence
• Malpractice
• Conduct that is dishonorable, unethical, or unprofessional and likely to harm the public
• Excessive or habitual use or abuse of alcohol or drugs
• Disciplinary action by the licensing authority in another state or country
• False statements of fees, including charging for professional services not rendered
• False records or reports
• Physical or mental illness that results in the inability to practice
• Fraud or dishonesty in biological tests
• Failure to report infectious or contagious diseases
• Conviction of a charge of cruelty to animals
• Exploiting clients for financial gain through sale of drugs or other goods
• Violating state or federal laws or regulations relating to controlled substances or legend drugs
• Failure to report a case of suspected aggravated torture, cruelty, or animal fighting