Introduction

This article examines Georgia statutes concerning veterinary clinic facility standards and board regulations in the context of visitor safety.

Scenario

A pet owner brings their cat to a veterinary clinic on Zebulon Road in Macon, Georgia. After the examination, while carrying their pet carrier, the owner slips on a wet floor in the exam room where cleaning solution was recently applied. No warning signs were posted about the wet surface. The owner falls, injuring themselves and dropping the carrier. The clinic regularly cleans exam rooms between patients but has no protocol for warning visitors about wet floors.

Georgia Law

Veterinary Facility Standards

Georgia Code § 43-50-90: “The board shall have authority to promulgate rules and regulations concerning the standards for veterinary facilities, including but not limited to sanitation, equipment, and record keeping, as necessary to protect the health and welfare of the public and animals.”

Veterinary Practice Act

Georgia Code § 43-50-3: “There is created the State Board of Veterinary Medicine which shall administer and enforce this chapter. The board shall have the authority to make rules and regulations not inconsistent with the laws of this state which are necessary for the performance of its duties.”

Premises Liability

Georgia Code § 51-3-1: “Where an owner or occupier of land, by express or implied invitation, induces or leads others to come upon his premises for any lawful purpose, he is liable in damages to such persons for injuries caused by his failure to exercise ordinary care in keeping the premises and approaches safe.”

General Duty of Care

Georgia Code § 51-1-2: “Every person owes a duty to all other persons to exercise ordinary care not to injure them by any act or by any failure to act.”

Conclusion

The scenario describes a visitor slipping on a wet floor at a veterinary clinic in Macon, Georgia. Georgia Code § 43-50-90 authorizes facility standards regulations. Georgia Code § 51-3-1 establishes premises liability duties. These statutes establish the framework for veterinary clinic liability under Georgia law.

FAQ

Q: What authority does Georgia Code § 43-50-90 grant the board? A: Georgia Code § 43-50-90 grants authority to “promulgate rules and regulations concerning the standards for veterinary facilities, including but not limited to sanitation.”

Q: What is the board’s role under Georgia Code § 43-50-3? A: Georgia Code § 43-50-3 states the board “shall administer and enforce this chapter” and has “authority to make rules and regulations not inconsistent with the laws of this state.”

Q: What duty does Georgia Code § 51-3-1 impose on clinics? A: Georgia Code § 51-3-1 creates liability “for injuries caused by his failure to exercise ordinary care in keeping the premises and approaches safe.”

Q: Where are veterinary practice regulations found in the Georgia Code? A: Veterinary practice regulations are found in Georgia Code Title 43, Chapter 50.

Q: Does Georgia Code § 51-1-2 apply to veterinary clinics? A: Georgia Code § 51-1-2 states: “Every person owes a duty to all other persons to exercise ordinary care not to injure them by any act or by any failure to act.”

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, recommendation, or guidance. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. No actions should be taken based on the content of this article. For any specific legal matter, consult with a qualified and licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Scenario Disclaimer

The scenario described is entirely fictional and intended solely for illustrative purposes. Any resemblance to real persons, events, or situations is purely coincidental.