Brief Update on Developments
It’s frustrating that things move slowly. However, the RCVS has decided to close the book on Bella’s treatment (or lack of it) and suggested that we seek redress through the courts. Of course, they add that, if a court action is successful they will re-consider, but the fact is that their policy is to place owners who’s pets have received unprofessional care under extreme financial pressure before they will consider making a vet accountable in any way.
We plan to resubmit our complaint and have asked for support from our local MP. The Action Support Group has also offered help in preparing our resubmission. Comments of support continue to arrive, although there are some who seem to believe that there is something sinister in the fact that we have not laid out Bella’s medical history in full. We can only say that Bella’s medical history is not relevant to the cause of her death.
Medivet, having passed the issue to the Veterinary Defence Association (an indemnity organisation run ‘by vets, for vets’) are citing the conditions of their insurance to cease all communication with me, including my request for Bella’s medical records. I am considering contacting the Data Protection Act Ombudsman for help in this matter. DEFRA, the BSAVA and the Royal College have a meeting planned in January to discuss enforceable standards in veterinary premises. I plan to be there and support the case for enforceable standards.
Check out the media coverage page for new items over the next week or so.
