Understanding the VCPR in Equine Veterinary Medicine
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
A common buzzword and topic of discussion in veterinary medicine right now is VCPR- or the Veterinarian-Client-Patient-Relationship. If you’ve ever heard your equine veterinarian mention a VCPR and wondered what it actually means—or why it matters so much—you’re not alone. The VCPR is a core part of equine veterinary medicine, and it plays a big role in how your vet can care for your horse.
So, What Is a VCPR?
A VCPR simply means that your veterinarian knows you, knows your horse, and has seen your horse in person often enough to make informed medical decisions. Michigan law defining a VCPR follows current federal regulations. It consist of three basic parts:
Your veterinarian has agreed to be responsible for your horse’s care, and you’ve agreed to follow their medical recommendations.
Your veterinarian has firsthand knowledge of your horse, typically through a recent physical exam and an understanding of their routine, environment, and management.
Your veterinarian is available for follow-up care, whether that’s checking how treatment is working or addressing side effects or complications.
Why Does the VCPR Matter?
The VCPR isn’t just a technical rule—it’s there to protect everyone involved, especially your horse. For your horse it means that medical decisions are based on real, hands-on knowledge, care is more consistent, and there’s less risk of missed details or inappropriate treatment. For you as the owner it means a veterinarian can legally diagnose and treat your horse, prescription medications can be provided when needed, and emergencies can be handled more efficiently.
Prescriptions, Refills, and the VCPR
One of the most common sources of frustration around the VCPR is prescriptions. By law, veterinarians cannot prescribe or refill prescription medications without an active VCPR.
That means:
A quick phone call, text, or social media message isn’t enough
Your veterinarian must have examined your horse within a required timeframe
Online pharmacies still need veterinarian approval under a valid VCPR
If it’s been over a year since your horse was last examined, your veterinarian may need to see them again before refilling medications.
How Long Does a VCPR Last?
In many states, a VCPR must be renewed at least once a year, though some situations require more frequent exams. Horses with ongoing medical conditions or those on certain medications may need to be seen more often. For example, a horse needing antibiotics for a sudden illness would need to be seen before prescribing.
Regular wellness visits are one of the easiest ways to keep your VCPR active—and they’re great for catching small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Doing this makes you an established client at your veterinary practice, which has advantages for you and your animals!
What About Emergencies?
In emergencies, being an established client with an active VCPR can make a real difference. Without one, veterinarians are often limited in what advice or treatment they’re legally allowed to provide. And while Shoreline Equine makes every attempt to see all equine emergencies, the emergencies of established clients always come first and are seen at a discounted rate.
Your Part in the VCPR
A strong VCPR is a team effort. You can help maintain it by:
Scheduling routine wellness exams
Letting your veterinarian know about changes in health or management
Following treatment plans as prescribed
Reaching out early when concerns come up
Open communication goes a long way in keeping your horse healthy!
The Takeaway
The VCPR is the foundation of good equine veterinary care. It allows your veterinarian to provide safe, effective, and timely treatment—while making sure everything is done legally and ethically.
If you’re not sure whether your VCPR is current, or if it’s time to schedule a wellness visit, please reach out! Staying up to date helps ensure your horse gets the care they need, when they need it.
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