Which procedures are considered the practice of veterinary medicine in Arizona?

The practice of veterinary medicine encompasses a range of activities that pertain directly to the health and well-being of animals. In Arizona, this includes the diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of animals. These activities require a veterinary degree and a license, as they involve the assessment and intervention in animal health issues, which can have significant implications for an animal's quality of life.

Diagnosis involves determining the nature of a disease or condition based on signs, symptoms, and diagnostic tests. Treatment may include prescribing medications, therapeutic interventions, or performing surgeries to resolve health issues. Surgery is often necessary for a variety of conditions, from routine procedures like spaying or neutering to more complex operations aimed at correcting health problems.

In contrast, activities such as grooming, boarding, providing training, and selling pet medications do not fall under the actual practice of veterinary medicine. Grooming and boarding involve basic care and management of pets rather than medical treatment, while training and behavioral consultations may enhance the human-animal bond but do not require veterinary oversight. The retail sale of pet medications typically requires adherence to specific regulations and is not considered the practice of veterinary medicine unless performed as part of a veterinary practice. Thus, the core focus of veterinary practice is on diagnosing and treating medical conditions, making