Our animals in Alaska are in danger when they are operated on by irresponsible veterinarians. Imagine entrusting the life and safety of your beloved pet to a professional meant to heal and help them, only to find out that they might be under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the procedure. As pet owners, this is not only alarming but utterly unacceptable.

Alaska, with its unique wildlife and beloved domestic pets, relies heavily on the expertise and integrity of veterinary professionals. The recent troubling reports from Ethos Veterinary Health clinics in Alaska, suggesting that some veterinarians have been seen operating under the influence, are both shocking and unacceptable. Pets are not just animals; they are integral parts of our families who deserve the highest standard of care.

Substance abuse affects decision-making, motor skills, and overall ability to perform medical procedures, putting our pets’ lives at serious risk. This should not happen under any circumstances. Veterinary medical errors can lead to grave outcomes, including the unnecessary suffering or loss of an animal. Ethical practice demands that veterinarians are always sober, alert, and fully capable of making the best decisions for their patients.

We urge Ethos (PET Emergency Treatment, Anchorage) to take immediate and stringent actions to rectify this. This includes mandatory drug and alcohol screenings for all veterinary staff prior to surgeries, continual random checks, and the establishment of a robust system to report any suspicions of substance abuse without fear of retaliation. We also call for a review of current staff and the implementation of mandatory drug and alcohol awareness education as well as stop veterinarians who have already been unethical and practiced under the influence of substances to be removed from practice.

The safety of our animals depends on the trust and reliability of veterinary professionals. Ethos must take responsibility and ensure the absolute sobriety of the experts they employ, thus safeguarding the wellbeing of our beloved pets. Our pets, who can't speak for themselves, need every safeguard and protection we can afford them.

Sign this petition to demand that Ethos demonstrates transparency and commitment to the safety and health of our animals in Alaska.