Veterinary Malpractice

China's criminal laws don't cover malpractice by veterinarians and any disputes between pet owners and animal hospitals are currently dealt with through lawsuits. Suits are tough for pet owners to win, however, as it is extremely difficult to prove malpractice or to provide evidence of the animal's condition prior to treatment.

The association says it doesn't know how many such disputes have arisen in the city, as there are more unlicensed clinics than licensed facilities offering veterinary services.