Question

A lady captured my cat and neutered him with out my consent. She did the procedure herself and also cut a piece of my cats ear. When he was returned he had an open wound for which I had to take him to the emergency room and the doctors told me that they had to do surgery on him. Can I sue the lady who did this or should I call the cops? I do not know what to do.

Answer

With respect to a non-veterinarian performing surgery on an animal, I suggest you contact the police. If the SPCA in your area of New York enforces the cruelty laws, I suggest you contact them as well. I also suggest you contact the NYS Education Department, Office of the Professions. This agency accepts complaints of suspected professional misconduct and unlicensed practice of a profession, www.op.nysed.gov; 800-442-8106. It is unlawful to practice veterinary medicine without a license. A civil lawsuit can also be commenced for monetary damages including, for example, veterinary expenses and punitive damages (for egregious behavior). Of course, in all of the above, there will need to be evidence that the alleged perpetrator actually committed these horrific acts. I hope the cat is doing well (and that he is kept indoors).

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