(a) Animal Physical Rehabilitation (APR):
- (1) is defined as the treatment of injury or illness to address pain and improve function by means of physical corrective treatment.
- (2) does not include relaxation, recreational or wellness modalities, including but not limited to, massage, athletic training, or exercise.
- (b) Prior to performing or authorizing APR, a veterinarian shall establish a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship as defined in Section 2032.15 or Section 4826.6 of the Business and Professions Code.
- (c) R.V.T.s may perform APR under the degree of direct or indirect supervision determined by the veterinarian who has established the veterinarian-client-patient relationship.
- (d) Veterinary assistants may perform APR under the direct supervision of a veterinarian.
- (e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to restrict or amend Section 2038 regarding the performance of MSM.
- (f) This section shall not apply to wildlife rehabilitation regulated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Note: Authority cited: Sections 4808 and 4836, Business and Professions Code. Reference: Sections 4825, 4826, 4826.6, 4836 and 4883, Business and Professions Code.
History
1. New section filed 11-15-2021; operative 1-1-2022 (Register 2021, No. 47). Filing deadline specified in Government Code section 11349.3(a) extended 60 calendar days pursuant to Executive Order N-40-20 and an additional 60 calendar days pursuant to Executive Order N-71-20.
2. Change without regulatory effect amending subsection (b) and Note filed 2-12-2025 pursuant to section 100, title 1, California Code of Regulations (Register 2025, No. 7).