COLLEGE UPDATES SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDANCE FOR PROFESSION
VISIT CVO . ORG / HUB FOR GUIDANCE WITH YOUR ETHICAL DILEMMAS
COLLEGE UPDATES SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDANCE FOR PROFESSION
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If a veterinarian is obtaining client consent to share an animal ’ s case story , be sure the client understands and agrees to what information will be shared . Consent from clients can be verbal or written . If a veterinarian chooses to get verbal consent , it should be documented in the patient record that consent was obtained . Posting pet photos or case stories on a clinic ’ s website or social media should not be used as testimonials .
When someone posts a negative review on social media or a third-party review site , a suggestion is to move the conversation off-line by asking the individual to contact the practice directly . The College has no regulatory authority over third-party websites . To remove a negative review , contact the thirdparty review site , or seek legal advice depending on the circumstances .
ETHICS RESOURCES HUB
Even when they are off duty , a veterinarian ’ s conduct can still affect their reputation , the reputation of their workplace , and the profession . It is important to apply the principles above when posting on social media outside of the workplace context .
We are all aware of examples of situations when a controversial post has gone viral . Things can quickly spiral out of a person ’ s control and be picked up by the broader media . Before posting something that may seem questionable , ask yourself if you would want it to be viewed by your boss , your clients , or shared with media outlets . Be proactive by putting practices in place for you and your veterinary team about social media use that will uphold professionalism and the public trust .
References : – Guidance on the Use of Social Media – Code of Ethics
VISIT CVO . ORG / HUB FOR GUIDANCE WITH YOUR ETHICAL DILEMMAS
Moral conflicts arise in daily practice - even in the most challenging ethical issue , a veterinarian must decide on the course of action that will best address the situation Throughout the Ethics Resource Hub , you will find online resources , including tools and frameworks , discussions , case scenarios and a library , to assist you in building your skills in ethical decision-making .
AVAILABLE ONLINE
Veterinary Facility Accreditation Emblem
The College ’ s facility accreditation program supports safe patient care . All facilities where veterinary medicine is practised in Ontario must meet the accreditation standards established by the College .
The College offers veterinary facilities the use of a facility accreditation emblem and window decal to demonstrate to the public they are committed to veterinary health care , meet the accreditation requirements and support the College ’ s inspection program .
The emblem may be displayed on your facility ’ s website , and on your clinic ’ s social media sites . The emblem is also available as a window decal . More than 1,500 decals have been circulated to veterinary facilities .
The social media and website emblem and window decal are available upon request by contacting the College or submit your request online at cvo . org / getemblem . For further information : – Ethics Resource Hub – Ethics E-Learning Module
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Editor : Jan Robinson
Assistant to the Editor : Kim Huson
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