Veterinary medicine is a noble profession. Every day, licensed veterinarians commit years of study, training, and sleepless nights to care for animals. But sadly, there are people pretending to be veterinarians—fake vets—who put pets and their owners at risk.
In many areas, especially provinces, there have been reports of foreigners or non-licensed individuals acting as veterinarians without supervision from a duly licensed vet. Some even come from related fields like Animal Science but practice procedures far beyond their scope. This is not only illegal, it is dangerous.
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Why Fake Vets Are Dangerous
Fake vets may perform procedures without proper knowledge, prescribe the wrong medicines, or fail to recognize life-threatening conditions. Infections, overdoses, misdiagnoses, and even death of pets have been linked to unlicensed practice. Beyond that, owners are misled into trusting someone who has no right to handle animals medically.
How to Spot a Fake Vet
Here are signs you should look out for:
- No PRC License – Every real vet in the Philippines must have a PRC license (Professional Regulation Commission). Don’t hesitate to ask for it.
- No Clinic Accreditation – Veterinary clinics must be accredited by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI). If there’s no visible certificate, be cautious.
- Strange Prescriptions – If they prescribe human medicine without explanation, or avoid giving a written prescription, that’s a red flag.
- Unclear Background – Be wary if the person introduces themselves as “doctor” but cannot show a veterinary diploma, PRC card, or certificate.
- Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices – Very cheap services might mean they’re cutting corners—or worse, not licensed at all.
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What Pet Owners Can Do
- Always Ask for Proof – Licensed veterinarians are proud to show their credentials.
- Check PRC Records – You can verify names on the PRC website.
- Report Suspicious Practice – If you know of a fake vet, report them to the PRC, the BAI, or your local veterinary group.
A Call to Protect Pets
Our pets cannot speak for themselves. They rely on us to keep them safe—not only from diseases, but also from impostors who pretend to care. Choosing a real, licensed veterinarian ensures your pets receive the right treatment, backed by years of education and professional oath.
To my fellow vets: let’s stay vigilant. Fake vets—whether foreign nationals or locals—are a growing threat to our profession and to animal welfare. Pangasinan vets, and all vets across the Philippines, please be careful.
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Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
