Now Even the Veterinary Hospital is Being Blamed?
Dr. Geoff Carullo, DVM, FPCCP, DPCVSCA
- Articles
- 2 min read
First, 29 dead animals were discovered in Bulacan. Then came the allegations against Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium.
Now, a veterinary hospital that reportedly referred a client to the crematorium is being blamed, too.
And some netizens are already accusing the hospital of receiving commissions.
Jurisvet Pet Emergency Hospital in Bacoor has issued an official statement denying any ownership, partnership, affiliation, or involvement in the operations of any pet crematorium.
The hospital acknowledged sharing contact information for independent cremation providers, but clarified that arrangements were made directly between pet owners and those businesses.
Yet the accusations continue.
Veterinary clinics routinely refer clients to laboratories, specialists, diagnostic centers, and crematoriums.
A referral does not automatically mean a commission, partnership, or knowledge of wrongdoing.
If a veterinarian refers a patient to a specialist who subsequently commits malpractice, should the referring veterinarian automatically be held responsible?
Of course not.
We must exercise reasonable care when recommending third-party services.
Check their permits. Verify their facilities. Evaluate their reputation.
In fact, this controversy strengthens my earlier proposal that veterinary clinics should establish a proper accreditation and verification system for pet crematoriums.
However, even reasonable due diligence cannot guarantee that a third-party business will never commit misconduct.
If investigators discover that a veterinary clinic knowingly participated in fraudulent cremation arrangements, hold it accountable.
But accusing veterinarians of receiving commissions simply because they made referrals is irresponsible.
The grieving pet owners deserve justice. The crematorium must answer the allegations against it.
But we should not allow the alleged misconduct of one business to destroy the reputation of veterinary professionals without proof of their involvement.
Because recommending a business does not make you automatically responsible for everything that business does.
And suspicion, no matter how popular on Facebook, is not evidence.
Sharing this helps others understand what it really means to be a vet. Like and follow if you’re with us.
Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
