Press Releases

Veterinary surgeons registered under new system
Friday, January 8, 1999

The following is issued on behalf of the Veterinary Surgeons Board:

All veterinary surgeons in Hong Kong have to be registered with the full implementation of the Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance on January 15.

A spokesman for the Veterinary Surgeons Board (VSB) said today (Friday) the registration system would promote professional standard, enhance consumer protection and animal welfare in Hong Kong.

"The Ordinance, enacted in June 1997, aims at providing a locally-based regulatory system of veterinary surgeons to monitor professional standards and to provide disciplinary control," said the spokesman.

The VSB, comprising six veterinary surgeons, one medical member, two public members and a Board chairman, was established in September 1997 to implement the registration of veterinary surgeons.

Since the beginning of registration in April 1998, a total of 145 veterinary surgeons have already registered under the Ordinance.

The spokesman pointed out that the practice of veterinary surgery would be strictly monitored under the law.

"Anyone practising veterinary surgery without a valid practising certificate commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year on conviction.

"The Board has also promulgated a Code of Practice for registered veterinary surgeons to follow. The Code provides guidance on professional conduct and discipline. Any violation may result in inquiries and possible disciplinary action by the VSB," he said.

The notice on the full implementation of the Ordinance was published in the Gazette today (Friday).

The register of veterinary surgeons in Hong Kong will be available for public inspection on the 12th floor, Canton Road Government Offices, 393 Canton Road, Kowloon. Members of the public may also enquire with the Secretary of the Board on 2733 2245 or 2733 2349 about any matters related to veterinary surgeons.