Source: Kentucky Lantern
Veterinarians and animal welfare advocates in Kentucky are voicing concern over a proposed state regulation that could restrict pop-up Veterinary vaccine clinics in retail stores, limiting access to affordable preventive care in rural areas. The Kentucky Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners proposal would require all treatment areas to be fully enclosed, purpose-built spaces separate from non-veterinary retail areas. This is a rule that could make mobile operations, like those run by VIP Petcare in Tractor Supply Co. stores, unfeasible.
Supporters of the clinics, including the Franklin County Humane Society, argue that the rule would reduce access to critical rabies, parvovirus, and distemper vaccinations for low-income pet owners. The board cites public safety concerns, such as potential exposure to needles or aggressive animals, as justification. VIP Petcare representatives counter that their clinics have safely served thousands of pets for over a decade. The board may amend the regulation before it advances to state legislative review.