Veterinary Medical Ethics

A 6-month-old crossbred dog is presented to you early one morning with unusual central nervous system signs. The husband and wife are new clients and appear “edgy.” They are there with their two young children. It is difficult for you to obtain a clear history regarding the onset or progression of the clinical signs. Due to the reluctance of the couple to provide an adequate history, you assure them that anything they tell you will be kept confidential within the veterinary-client-patient relationship. They then admit that the dog consumed some of their recreational opioids. The dog responds well to treatment with naloxone. The couple and their children are relieved and grateful. You are not comfortable lecturing these people about the dangers of recreational narcotics; however, with two young children and the dog as evidence that these drugs are not always stored in a secure manner, it does not seem right to register this as a successful treatment outcome and get on with your day. You have a professional obligation to report animal abuse. What are your professional obligations in this situation