In every profession, there will always be tension between skill and license. In veterinary medicine, this debate has become more visible as some licensed veterinarians pass on skills to individuals who are not even graduates of veterinary medicine, or in some cases, not even high school. These individuals are trained to perform blood collections, intubations, laboratory work, even euthanasia—acts that, by law and ethics, are reserved for licensed veterinarians.
Let me be clear: skill is valuable, but skill without the proper foundation of knowledge, training, and regulation is dangerous. Veterinary practice is not just about knowing how to insert a needle or administer fluids. It is about understanding anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and the legal and ethical obligations that come with the title “Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.”
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An underboard veterinarian—someone who has finished veterinary school but not yet passed the board exam—can work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. In that role, they are considered assistants or vet nurses, but not full practitioners. That distinction matters. It is the license that provides accountability, protects the public, and ensures that when something goes wrong, the professional is answerable to both law and ethics.
Unfortunately, there are also licensed veterinarians who compromise integrity
Unfortunately, there are also licensed veterinarians who compromise integrity by allowing unqualified individuals to perform acts of veterinary medicine, or worse, by using expired medications and unsafe practices. This not only endangers patients but disrespects the sacrifices of those who studied and worked hard to earn their license.
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To the underboards who remain honest, I say this: your integrity matters. Even if you have the skill, your choice to uphold proper practice protects the dignity of the profession. It may feel unfair when you see shortcuts being rewarded, but in the long run, professionalism and legality will always stand taller than convenience.
At the heart of this issue is respect
At the heart of this issue is respect—for the law, for the profession, for the patients, and for ourselves. Skills can be learned by anyone, but responsibility, accountability, and professional ethics belong only to those who have rightfully earned the title of veterinarian.
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Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
