New Taipei City Creates Platform to Resolve Pet Medical Disputes, Facilitating 8 Settlements This Year

New Taipei City has launched a "Pet Medical Consumer Dispute Communication Platform" to address the growing number of conflicts arising from veterinary care. The initiative, a joint effort by the Animal Protection and Disease Prevention Office, the Banqiao District Conciliation Committee, and the New Taipei City Veterinarian Association, aims to provide a structured avenue for resolving disputes between pet owners and veterinary clinics.

According to Yang Shu-fang, director of the Animal Protection and Disease Prevention Office, New Taipei City has approximately 370,000 registered pet dogs and cats and 285 veterinary hospitals. The platform serves as a crucial resource for owners facing issues related to pet medical expenses and treatment. This year alone, the platform has successfully mediated eight cases, leading to resolutions acceptable to both parties.

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When facing medical disputes, the most important thing is to clarify the problem first. Mediation committee members and the veterinarian association can help both parties clarify the points of contention through rational communication, avoiding the escalation of disputes.

One case involved Mr. Zheng, whose dog passed away after surgery for pyometra and spleen removal. Zheng questioned the post-operative care and treatment, prompting the Animal Protection Office to refer the case to the Banqiao District Conciliation Committee. During mediation, a committee member facilitated discussions, while a veterinarian from the association provided expert opinions on the post-operative care and medical procedures. This process clarified misunderstandings, leading the veterinary hospital to refund the hospitalization fees and both parties to reach an agreement.

Luo Qing-bo, president of the New Taipei City Veterinarian Association, emphasized that pet medical disputes often stem from differing understandings of medical information and procedures, rather than necessarily indicating malpractice. He highlighted the platform's role in fostering rational communication to clarify issues and prevent disputes from escalating. The association advises pet owners to proactively inquire about treatment methods, risks, and costs, and to retain all medical records and receipts. Veterinary clinics are urged to provide thorough explanations and maintain accurate medical records as required by law.

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Pet owners should proactively understand the treatment methods, possible risks, and costs when taking their pets for medical treatment, and properly keep medical records, treatment records, and receipts. Veterinary hospitals should also fully explain the treatment and charging content, and record the treatment records in accordance with Article 12 of the "Veterinarian Act."