My pet died after treatment — can I sue?

You can, but Canadian law generally treats animals as property, so damages are usually limited to value and costs rather than emotional loss. That is why many owners pursue the College complaint instead.

Is there a HPARB review?

No. Veterinary medicine is regulated outside the health professions regime — appeals go internally and then to the Divisional Court.

Should I have received an estimate?

Written estimates and informed consent before treatment are standards. Failing to provide them is a legitimate complaint.

College of Veterinarians of Ontario — Complaints About a Vet

College of Veterinarians of Ontario

This College regulates veterinarians in Ontario. Two things surprise pet owners. First, veterinary medicine sits outside the health professions regime, so there is **no HPARB review** — appeals go internally and then to the Divisional Court. Second, Canadian law generally treats animals as property, so damages are usually limited to the animal's value and treatment costs rather than reflecting the emotional loss.

What it does

Licenses veterinarians and accredits veterinary facilities
Investigates complaints about care and conduct
Sets standards on consent, estimates and records
Refers matters to its Discipline Committee

Matters it hears

Standard of care and misdiagnosis
Consent and written estimates before treatment
Records access and fee disputes
Facility standards and drug handling

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Divisional Court (Ontario).

Veterinary regulation is outside the health professions regime, so HPARB does not apply. Appeals proceed internally and then to the Divisional Court.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

My pet died after treatment — can I sue?: You can, but Canadian law generally treats animals as property, so damages are usually limited to value and costs rather than emotional loss. That is why many owners pursue the College complaint instead.
Is there a HPARB review?: No. Veterinary medicine is regulated outside the health professions regime — appeals go internally and then to the Divisional Court.
Should I have received an estimate?: Written estimates and informed consent before treatment are standards. Failing to provide them is a legitimate complaint.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with College of Veterinarians of Ontario. Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.