Under what conditions may a veterinarian prescribe controlled substances?

A veterinarian may prescribe controlled substances within the context of a valid Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). A VCPR establishes the relationship between the veterinarian and the client, ensuring that the veterinarian understands the animal's medical history and current health status. This is crucial for responsible prescribing practices, especially for controlled substances, which have potential for abuse and require careful management.

A valid VCPR involves the veterinarian having sufficient knowledge of the animal through examination or medically appropriate visits, and the veterinarian must be available for follow-up care. This relationship ensures that the veterinarian can make informed decisions about the necessary treatment while considering the welfare of the animal and adhering to legal and ethical standards.

Other factors such as the animal's insurance status or client requests do not justify the prescription of controlled substances without the proper veterinary oversight provided by a valid VCPR. Emergencies can dictate certain prescribing actions, but these situations still require a proper VCPR to be established beforehand.