In what case can a veterinarian accept an animal as a patient without establishing a VCPR?

A veterinarian must establish a Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) to ensure ethical and legal standards in providing care. The VCPR is fundamental in maintaining trust and ensuring that the veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of the animal in question, which allows the veterinarian to make informed decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment.

In certain emergency situations, a veterinarian may treat an animal in dire need without a prior VCPR, emphasizing the urgency to alleviate pain or suffering rather than adhere strictly to administrative protocols. Additionally, when an animal is referred by a specialist, there often exists a VCPR between the referring veterinarian and the client already, thereby facilitating care under the existing relationship rather than negating the need for one.

For ongoing patients already under treatment, the VCPR is already established, which permits continued care without having to renegotiate the terms of the relationship.

Thus, while establishing a VCPR is critical in most scenarios, exceptions exist in cases of urgent care, ongoing treatment, or referrals where a prior VCPR is maintained, underscoring that option 'D' does not accurately represent the circumstances under which a veterinarian may accept an animal as a patient without a VCPR.