Vet's license revoked: Naughty business of the week
We've told you before about disciplined doctors and medical professionals that have been sanctioned. But did you know veterinarians are also subject to similar oversight?
The State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, part of the Maryland Department of Agriculture, has revoked the license of Dr. Gary W. Dehne. The small-animal vet made home visits to patients in the Bethesda/Chevy Chase area of Montgomery County.
He is accused of ...
... not delivering results of a blood test to the cat's owner, not responding to requests for a refund and not responding to the board when it investigated the issue.
The owner filed a complaint in 2007 and he faced formal disciplinary charges in December. Last month, he was deemed to be in violation for failing to conform to standards of care and treatment, not keeping adequate records and other problems.
Pet owners can also file a complaint about a Maryland veterinarian at the state veterinary board's Web site. You can also find lists of Maryland registered veterinarians.
Here's a good tip from the frequently asked questions list on its Web site: you don't have to buy your pet's medications from your vet. According to the board, veterinarians must provide a prescription for drugs if he or she was willing to dispense that drug for your pet.
(photo: Kenneth K. Lam/Baltimore Sun; edited by Liz Kay)
