Since when did Google Become the Judge of Veterinary Businesses?
Dr. Geoff Carullo, DVM, FPCCP, DPCVSCA
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- 2 min read
A veterinary clinic can spend millions building its facilities, hiring licensed professionals, and establishing its reputation.
Yet one Google review can potentially damage years of hard work.
Recently, screenshots circulated showing a single Google account posting negative reviews against several veterinary clinics, alleging negligence, malpractice, and animal deaths.
One clinic publicly stated that it could not identify the reviewer in its available client records.
While this does not automatically prove the reviews are fabricated, it raises a serious concern.
Since when did we give Google the authority to interfere with our businesses without first verifying the accusations published on its platform?
Google is not the Professional Regulation Commission. It does not investigate veterinary malpractice or evaluate medical records.
Yet its star ratings can influence public perceptions of professional competence.
I recently posted this statement:
“If you doubt every veterinarian you meet, maybe it’s time to become the veterinarian you demand—study, finish the course, and pass the licensure exam.”
Pet owners have every right to criticize poor veterinary services. But criticism is different from making serious accusations without evidence.
Google’s own policies prohibit fake reviews and fabricated experiences. Under Republic Act No. 10175, defamatory online statements may also constitute cyberlibel when the legal requirements are met.
My point is simple.
Veterinarians must be accountable for their actions. But reviewers must also be accountable for their accusations.
Google should strengthen its verification and dispute-resolution procedures, particularly when reviews allege serious professional misconduct.
A one-star review is not proof of malpractice. And a Google account is not a license to destroy someone’s professional reputation.
Google Maps
Prohibited and Restricted Content Policy:
https://support.google.com/contributionpolicy/answer/7400114
Google Business Profile
Report Inappropriate Reviews:
https://support.google.com/business/answer/4596773
Republic Act No. 10175
Cybercrime Prevention Act:
https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2012/ra_10175_2012.html
Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
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