Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants: scope of practice.

Assembly Member Kalra's veterinary practice legislation expands the scope of services that registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) and veterinary assistants can provide under veterinary supervision in California. The measure modifies existing law to permit these professionals to perform any animal health care services not explicitly prohibited, rather than limiting them to services specifically prescribed by statute.

The bill authorizes both RVTs and veterinary assistants to deliver care in public and private animal shelters, humane societies, and animal cruelty prevention organizations pursuant to veterinary orders. These orders may establish protocols for animal intake assessments, treatment of common conditions, disease control, pain management, and euthanasia criteria. RVTs would also gain authority to perform dental procedures including tooth extractions under veterinary supervision, apply independently for DEA registration to obtain euthanasia drugs, and help establish veterinarian-client-patient relationships for preventive care.

While expanding technical roles, the legislation maintains veterinary oversight requirements to ensure appropriate standards of care. The measure requires no additional state funding, indicating implementation would occur through existing regulatory frameworks and resources. These changes would affect operations at veterinary practices, shelters, and other animal care facilities throughout California.