Pre-signing the interstate certificate of veterinary inspection without inspecting the cattle has a Kentucky DVM waiting for sentencing. Illegally moving cattle across state lines with fraudulent paperwork is a federal offense.
Source: Drover’s, January 21, 2019. Link.
Under federal law prior to shipment across state lines cattle are required to be inspected by a veterinarian. Health certificates are then issued by the veterinarian attesting to the inspection with appropriate state authorities.
INSIGHTS: This case highlights the importance of managing the veterinary-client-patient relationship, routine site visits and regulatory compliance.