Who owns a pet's medical records?

The correct answer is that the veterinarian who treated the pet owns the medical records. In veterinary practice, the medical records are considered the property of the veterinarian or the clinic where the treatment occurred. This ownership enables the veterinarian to maintain a detailed account of the pet's health, treatments, and any interactions.

Having ownership over the medical records allows the veterinarian to ensure their confidentiality and manage access to those records, while still providing the pet owner with the right to request copies or summaries. This distinction is crucial as it establishes the veterinarian's responsibility for maintaining the records' integrity and accuracy.

Understanding this ownership is essential for both pet owners and veterinary professionals, as it affects how medical information is shared, accessed, and utilized in ongoing care or consultations.