Can a RVT perform emergency procedures on an animal?
Yes. An RVT can perform emergency procedures on animals, but with limitations. As defined in B&P 4840.5, an emergency situation means that the animal has been placed in a life-threatening condition where immediate treatment is necessary to sustain life. CCR 2069 clearly specifies what limited treatments a RVT may perform after direct communication with a licensed veterinarian. If direct communication cannot be established the RVT may perform these limited treatments only in accordance with written instructions established by the facility’s veterinarian.
