What should a veterinarian do if they have a conflict of interest with a client?

When a veterinarian faces a conflict of interest with a client, disclosing the conflict is crucial for maintaining ethical standards and trust in the veterinary-client relationship. Transparency allows the client to understand the potential bias that may affect the veterinarian’s judgment or recommendations. If the conflict is significant enough, recusing oneself from the case ensures that the client receives objective and impartial care.

Handling conflicts of interest appropriately is part of the veterinary professional’s responsibility to uphold integrity and prioritize the welfare of the animal in question. This approach helps to avoid any compromise in the quality of care provided and respects the client's autonomy in decision-making.

In contrast, ignoring the conflict could risk compromising the client's trust and the care provided, and consulting with another veterinarian without informing the client fails to uphold ethical standards. Advising the client verbally about the conflict alone may not be sufficient; proper documentation and formal disclosure are generally expected to completely address the situation.