Pet owners sometimes request CCTV recordings of consultations, confinement areas, or surgery rooms, often citing transparency or concerns about malpractice. But in the eyes of the law, is the client automatically entitled to such footage?
The short answer: No. Asking for a CCTV clip is not a matter of right.
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Why CCTV Footage Is Not an Automatic Right
Property of the Clinic
CCTV systems are installed and maintained by the clinic.
Under property law, the recordings belong to the clinic, not the client. A pet owner cannot demand ownership or uncontrolled access.
Covered by Data Privacy Law
CCTV captures not only the pet, but also veterinarians, staff, and possibly other clients.
These are considered personal data under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (RA 10173).
Any release requires informed consent from all individuals recorded, or a lawful order (e.g., subpoena).
Medical Records vs CCTV
Veterinary medical records are the right of the owner and must be provided upon request.
CCTV footage, however, is not part of the medical record. It is classified as a security and monitoring tool, not a patient document.
Risk of Misuse
Raw video can be taken out of context, edited, or circulated online, potentially damaging reputations and violating staff rights.
Clinics have a duty to protect not only clients, but also their personnel.
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When Can Footage Be Released?
Although not a matter of right, clinics may choose to release specific clips under strict conditions:
- Written Request – the pet owner must make a formal written request stating the purpose.
- Consent of Other Parties – staff and third parties appearing in the clip must consent, or the clinic must blur/redact their identities.
- Clinic Discretion – release remains at the discretion of the clinic owner, not the entitlement of the client.
- Legal Compulsion – if ordered by a court or regulatory agency (e.g., Professional Regulation Commission, National Privacy Commission), the clinic must comply.
Best Practices for Clinics
- Clinic Policy – state in admission forms that CCTV is for security and internal monitoring, not for public or client access.
- Transparency Notices – display signage that the clinic is under CCTV surveillance.
- Controlled Release – if footage is given, ensure it is partial, redacted, and logged under a “chain of custody.”
- Legal Consultation – always seek counsel before releasing clips in malpractice or negligence disputes.
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Conclusion
While pet owners may request CCTV recordings, they have no inherent right to obtain them. Clinics are not legally obligated to release raw footage, except under due process of law.
CCTV should be understood as a clinic-owned, privacy-sensitive record, subject to professional discretion and legal safeguards—not a demandable entitlement.
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Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
