Vet guilty of misdiagnosis

A vet who gave a dog an unnecessary operation and lied to the owner of a sick horse has been fined $5000 and suspended, pending a psychiatric assessment.

The North Island veterinarian, whose name and details are suppressed, pleaded guilty to charges of professional misconduct stemming from two complaints. An investigation by the Veterinary Council found the vet had also been dishonest in both cases.

A dog in his care was incorrectly diagnosed as having stifle joint disease and operated on, causing complications that were not recognised or treated effectively for three weeks. MORE>>