11/1/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner -Adams was concerned.a.bout the medical aspect of this activity as well as the overall impact on _the local businesses. She pointed out that we do not allow roses to be sold on the side of -the road and we should worry about these outside veterinarians who are not registered or licensed. Commissioner Macht likened it -to physical examinations being performed in the hospital parking lot. Attorney Vitunac cautioned the Board against passing an ordinance which will only protect the economic viability of local veterinarians. We cannot base an ordinance on economics. It must be based on public health, safety and welfare. Dr. Michael Herman, West Side Animal Hospital on 10th Avenue, presented the following: 00,mmissioner Carolyn Eggert Doug Wrighli 4rector _ Emergency Services DATE: October 11, 1994 SUBJECT: Conversation with Dr. Neil Heskel, M.D., Regarding Veterinarian Discount Animal Vaccination Clinics Pursuant to your ' request, I spoke by phone with Dr. Neil Heskel ( 567- 4445) today. As you know, Dr. Heskel is the spouse of Linda E. Aiken, VMD (567-2929) who provides veterinarian services at The Animal Hospital located at 1849 20th Straet, Vero Beach. The main thrust of Dr. Heskel's concern related to the county permitting or allowing out of town discount vaccination clinics to occur within the county in parking lots, pet shops, etc., which has an adverse effect on local veterinarians businesses in terms of revenue loss. He also expressed dismay that adequate medical history of the animals is not available and medical examinations are not performed by personnel from the vaccination clinics before the vaccines are administered and this situation has resulted in one animal's death. He also stated the vaccinations are not administered in a -clean and sterile .environment. which is adverse to the future health of animals vaccinated. Dr. Heskel felt the Commission would not allow a medical doctor to set up a short term medical practice in a parking lot and he suggested some consideration should be given to the adoption of an ordinance which would preclude discount vaccination clinics unless and until they meet similar criteria as local -veterinarians have to comply with. Dr. Heskel requested that you consider asking the County Attorney to look into this matter to ascertain if an -ordinance could be drafted and public hearings held -to formalize some prohibition against this type of business activity in the county similar to what has been done relative to regulating the sale of flowers and vegetables. Based on quarterly meetings with the:].ocal veterinarians in the county, I feel substantial support exists for the Board to consider Dr.-Heskel's request. 57 BOOK mu November 1, 1994