UNAIR NEWS Last week, a heated discussion emerged among Veterinary Medicine students following the circulation of Instagram story templates addressing an individual accused of performing veterinary medical procedures without proper qualifications. This person, described as an unlicensed and untrained “fake veterinarian,” stirred outrage among certified veterinarians and aspiring professionals who endure extensive training to practice responsibly.
Dr. Nusdianto Triakoso, DVM, MP, a lecturer and clinician at 51动漫檚 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UNAIR), voiced his concerns over the issue. 淭his is disheartening from our perspective. How can someone take on the role of a veterinarian without the requisite education or training? We have a professional oath and a code of ethics. People should not perform tasks that fall under the exclusive purview of licensed veterinarians, Dr. Triakoso stated.
Risks to animal welfare
Veterinary care demands specialized knowledge and skills, requiring years of intensive study. These responsibilities are not to be undertaken lightly.
淭o carry out medical procedures, one must have the necessary competencies攕kills in diagnosis, treatment, anesthesia, surgery, and more. These are not tasks that just anyone can or should perform, he emphasized.
Confidence alone is insufficient for performing medical procedures; a thorough understanding and hands-on experience are essential. 淲ithout adequate knowledge, these actions could endanger the animal and pose significant risks, he warned.
Dr. Triakoso further explained the potential consequences of unqualified individuals performing surgery. 淲ithout the proper training, someone could inadvertently damage vital tissues, causing excessive bleeding and possibly leading to the animal檚 death, he added.
Legal framework governing veterinary Practices
Dr. Triakoso highlighted that veterinary care in Indonesia is governed by comprehensive legal frameworks. Veterinarians must secure a practice license, which requires meeting strict regulatory standards. These laws are outlined in Law No. 18 of 2009 and were later amended by Law No. 41 of 2014.
淭here are clear regulations in Indonesia concerning animal health and veterinary practice, including the specific qualifications and competencies required of veterinarians, Dr. Triakoso explained.
Author: Syifa Rahmadina
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
