Oklahoma board withdraws emergency rules on animal husbandry

In the midst of a dispute over what are described as “misinterpretations” of rules centered around farmers and ranchers continuing to care and treat their own animals, and concern for protecting Oklahoma public health and safety, an important state agency has withdrawn proposed rules.

The Oklahoma State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners has voted to withdraw emergency rules requested and signed into law by then-Governor Brad Henry to help define the term “animal husbandry,” in order to clarify who can provide medical services on livestock.

“Since 1913, the Vet Board has never taken action against a farmer, rancher, horseman, nor employees or helpers of livestock producers in treating and caring for their own animals,” Cathy Kirkpatrick, Executive Director of the Oklahoma State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, told CapitolBeatOK.

Kirkpatrick added, “Nothing has changed from decades of how owners can care and treat their own animals. The Board has always supported the rights of Oklahoma farmers and ranchers to treat and care for their own animals and understands that assistance is required by employees, neighbors, friends and family to carry out this task. These provisions of the Veterinary Practice Act were never changed.”