What must be included in an informed consent form before any veterinary procedure?

An informed consent form must include the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the veterinary procedure to ensure that pet owners are comprehensively informed before allowing their animals to undergo treatment. This comprehensive approach allows the client to weigh the potential outcomes and make an educated decision regarding their pet's healthcare.

Including risks ensures that the client understands what negative outcomes could potentially arise from the procedure. Benefits highlight what the procedure aims to achieve or the positive outcomes that the owner can expect. Presenting alternatives is critical as it informs the owner of other possible treatments or procedures that could be considered, allowing for a more informed choice that may better suit the individual needs of their pet.

This holistic information empowers owners and reflects the ethical duty veterinarians have to ensure clients are fully educated about their decisions, fostering trust and transparency in the veterinary-client relationship.