Informed consent has always been part of veterinary care, but the expectations around it keep changing. Today, veterinarians are under more pressure to explain tests, treatment options, and surgery risks in a clear, honest way. Clients want to understand what’s happening with their pets, especially as new technology and telemedicine become more common. Because of this, practice leaders pay closer attention to the forms they use and how their teams communicate. Strong consent doesn’t just protect the clinic — it builds trust and helps pets receive better care.
Updating Consent for Diagnostics
Diagnostic tests can cause stress for clients, especially when they worry about cost. Most problems come from not fully understanding why a test is needed. Clear consent forms help by explaining each test in simple, direct language so clients appreciate its purpose and how it supports their pet’s care.
When a vet explains why a test matters, what it could show, and how the results might guide future care, clients understand the reasoning much better. This kind of clarity helps them see the test isn’t just an extra option — it’s an integral part of their pet’s treatment plan.
Written consent should support the conversation, not replace it. When clients understand why bloodwork, imaging, or advanced panels are suggested, they make more confident decisions and feel prepared for the next steps once results return.
Telemedicine and Remote Guidance
Telemedicine continues to grow across the profession, with practices relying on video consults, triage calls, and remote follow-ups. This growth creates new consent issues because clients sometimes misunderstand the limits of virtual care and expect more than the format can deliver.
In 2026, telemedicine consent should highlight scope, limits, and expectations. Clients need clarity on when remote care works and when an in-person exam is necessary. Because state rules continue to evolve, your consent language should reflect the most current guidance.
Many practices now use digital consent forms before virtual visits. These documents outline diagnostic limitations, follow-up needs, and risks associated with remote evaluation. Clear communication reduces assumptions, improves workflow, and lowers disputes over what was promised during virtual appointments.
Explaining Surgical Risks with Clarity
Surgery brings the highest level of consent scrutiny because clients want clear explanations of anesthesia risks, postoperative needs, and expected outcomes. The standard of care now leans toward full transparency about complications, even when the likelihood is low. Veterinarians should use direct, simple language and offer concise explanations of common and rare risks. Clients value honesty, and clear discussions reduce misunderstandings if complications occur.
Postoperative care instructions should always appear in writing. Many practices now ask clients to initial each section of surgical consent forms to confirm they have reviewed the plan. This process also helps teams highlight key points during discharge.
Strengthening Communication and Protecting Your Practice
Informed consent depends on clear communication throughout the visit. Many practices now use verbal discussions, digital forms, client portals, and follow-up messages. The most effective systems use standardized templates, digital signatures, automated reminders, detailed medical record notes, and a consistent workflow for reviewing forms during appointments. These steps create a predictable process for clients and staff while reducing errors, cutting miscommunication, and preventing lost paperwork.
Strong consent also protects your practice. Clear communication reduces conflict and misunderstandings and builds trust with clients. If a dispute arises, a lawyer will review your forms and records to understand what was discussed. Solid documentation will help them guide you through your next steps and craft an appropriate response to the issue.
Improving Consent With Veterinary Legal Help
Clear, informed consent helps keep your practice running smoothly and gives clients confidence in the care their pets receive. Strong communication also gives your team something solid to rely on if questions or concerns arise later.
If you need a second set of eyes on your consent process or require assistance with a legal issue, please reach out to Mahan Law. We can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.