Informed consent in veterinary medicine: legal and medical perspectives in Italy

During the last four decades the doctrine of informed consent (IC) has become a legal standard and an essential component of ethical guidelines in medicine, due to its relevance for basic human rights such as autonomy and respect of dignity. Over the last few years, this legal formula has gained importance in veterinary medicine, thereby influencing the everyday activities of the veterinary practitioners. This paper briefly describes the ethical and legal background of IC in Italy and examines how it relates to the practice of veterinary medicine, considering the change in social sensibility towards animals. It also outlines the discussion that should take place between Veterinarian and client before a planned procedure.