What is a “Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship”?

VCPR stands for Veterinary–Client–Patient Relationship. It is the legal and professional foundation that allows a veterinarian to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for your animals. In simple terms, it means:

• The veterinarian knows you (the client) and has agreed to provide care for your animals.
• The veterinarian knows your animals because they have personally examined them and are familiar with their health, living conditions, and management.
• You agree to follow the veterinarian’s instructions for ongoing care.

Why an In-Person Exam Is Required

Your vet is not insisting on a visit to rack up farm call and exam fees — they care about safety, accuracy, and good medicine.  Your veterinarian must see your animals in person to:

1. Avoid misdiagnosis. Many health problems look alike from a description over the phone but require hands-on evaluation to tell apart.  A misguided “guess” over the phone could kill your animal. 
   • SIDE NOTE: Most veterinarians recognize that experienced producers are very knowledgeable.  We don’t doubt that you know something is wrong and maybe even know how to fix it.  Farmers are very capable!  But client skill level does not negate the doctor’s need to examine affected patients and apply their own medical expertise and judgement.
2. Ensure correct medication use. Drugs that work for one species may be dangerous—or even deadly—for another. The correct dosage often depends on weight, age, and health status.  Furthermore, not all medications are approved for use in food animal species.  Your veterinarian will advise on appropriate drug withdrawal times in your dairy and meat animals.
3. Protect against drug resistance. Responsible prescribing helps ensure medications remain effective for everyone.  Your veterinarian is not a drugstore.  It is illegal (and irresponsible) for us to blanket prescribe medications at the request of a client or (more often) non-client.

The Legal and Ethical Side

Veterinarians are not drug stores—we cannot dispense medication without a valid VCPR. In most states, it is illegal to prescribe or sell prescription drugs without first establishing this relationship. Ethically, it’s our responsibility to make sure every treatment we recommend is safe, necessary, and tailored to your animals’ needs.  And to ensure proper dosing and withdrawal recommendations are followed.

You would never receive medication from your family physician without an exam and prescription first.  In fact, repeated fishing for medication from human doctors and pharmacists – without a valid physical exam and current Rx – lands you on criminal drug-seeker watch lists! Your veterinarian is also a doctor.  We are bound by oath and by law to follow prescribing and reporting regulations.  We cannot sell you medication without a valid VCPR.

Why Building a VCPR Early Is Important

There are far too few large animal and livestock veterinarians to go around. When an emergency strikes—like a difficult calving, sudden illness, or injury—having an established VCPR means:

Your veterinarian already knows your animals and setup.

They can legally and quickly prescribe medication or provide treatment.

You’re more likely to get timely help when every minute matters.

Regular herd checks, preventive care, and livestock health planning not only keep your animals healthier but also ensure your veterinarian can legally and ethically step in during emergencies.

Help us, help you! If it’s been a while since your last farm visit, reach out to your veterinarian to schedule routine work now—your animals (and your future self) will thank you.