A practical guide for responsible pet parents
Written by Dr. Ramiz Mondal
Choosing the right veterinarian is one of the most important decisions a pet parent can make. In India, it is important to understand the difference between someone who has experience around animals and a qualified veterinary practitioner who is legally registered to practise veterinary medicine. A genuine veterinarian should have a recognised veterinary qualification and appropriate registration with the relevant State Veterinary Council/authority. Registration is not simply a title or a certificate displayed on social media—it is a professional status that can be verified through official records. Before allowing anyone to diagnose, prescribe medicines, perform procedures, vaccinate, or carry out surgery on your pet, pet parents should take a few minutes to verify the veterinarian’s qualification and registration details. This simple step can help protect your pet from inappropriate treatment, delayed diagnosis, medication errors, and unnecessary procedures. |
- Check the Veterinary Qualification
Ask for the veterinarian’s professional qualification, generally B.V.Sc. & A.H. or another qualification recognised under the applicable veterinary regulations. A clinic profile, social-media bio, or the use of “Dr.” alone should not be treated as proof of registration.
- Verify Registration
A registered veterinary practitioner is entered in an official veterinary register. The Indian Veterinary Council maintains the Indian Veterinary Practitioners Register, while State Veterinary Councils maintain State registers where applicable. Ask for the registration number and verify it through the appropriate official council or government source.
- Do Not Rely Only on Online Profiles
Google listings, Instagram pages, clinic websites, visiting cards, and advertisements can provide useful information, but they are not substitutes for professional registration verification. The safest approach is to cross-check the doctor’s name, qualification, registration number, and issuing authority against an official source.
- Ask Clear, Respectful Questions
A responsible pet parent can simply ask: “Doctor, may I know your veterinary qualification and registration number?” A genuine professional should be able to provide appropriate professional details without ambiguity. If the information cannot be verified, consider seeking advice from a registered veterinarian.
- Be Careful With Medical Claims
Be cautious if someone promises a guaranteed cure, recommends medicines without a proper examination, promotes secret remedies, or discourages you from seeking a qualified veterinarian. A professional consultation should include a reasonable assessment of the animal, an explanation of the likely problem, and appropriate advice.
- Check the Clinic and Treatment Process
A professional veterinary practice should maintain appropriate records and communicate clearly about diagnosis, tests, medicines, procedures, risks, and follow-up. For surgery, anaesthesia, hospitalisation, or long-term treatment, pet parents should feel comfortable asking what will be done and who will be responsible for the case.
- Remember: Registration Matters, But So Does Professional Conduct
Registration is an important first verification step, not the only factor to consider. Pet parents should also look for transparent communication, ethical conduct, appropriate clinical assessment, proper documentation, and a willingness to refer complicated cases when specialist care is required.
Quick Verification Checklist
✓ Veterinary qualification can be identified and verified.
✓ Registration number is available.
✓ Registration can be cross-checked with an official veterinary council/authority.
✓ The doctor explains diagnosis and treatment clearly.
✓ Medicines and procedures are recommended responsibly.
✓ The pet’s records and follow-up are handled professionally.
Doctor’s Note
“As pet parents, we naturally want the best care for our animals. Verification should not be about judging a person—it is about making an informed and responsible choice. Before treatment begins, take a moment to confirm that the veterinarian you are consulting has the appropriate recognised qualification and professional registration. Your pet cannot tell you whether the person treating them is qualified; you have to make that check on their behalf.”
— Dr. Ramiz Mondal
BVSc. & AH; MVSc. (Veterinary Nutrition)
Small Animal & Exotic Practitioner, Specialist in Veterinary Nutrition & Lifestyle Registration Number: 3564/WBVC
Reference: Veterinary Council of India (VCI), Indian Veterinary Council Act, 1984, and official VCI registration/Indian Veterinary Practitioners Register information.
