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Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.

I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.

I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.

The oath underscores the duty of the profession to aid in responding to animal cruelty. It is the veterinarian's responsibility to report cruelty when suspected, and to intervene before the potential for neglect in a client's animals becomes criminal. Animal welfare is the proper treatment of animals. According to the American Veterinary Medicine Association: “Ensuring animal welfare is a human responsibility that includes consideration for all aspects of animal well‐being, including proper housing, management, nutrition, disease prevention and treatment, responsible care, humane handling and when necessary, humane euthanasia” [2]. In each instance of examining an animal, a crime scene, or other evidence, the guidance provided to the veterinarian by the veterinarian's oath and the relevant law provide clarity to direct the actions of the veterinarian.