CACVT is the governing body for certified veterinary technicians in the state of Colorado. This is because technicians are certified (a voluntary action) and not governed by a state legal practice act. It is up to Colorado-licensed veterinarians to decide whom they wish to hire.

Colorado State Board of Veterinary Medicine (SBVM): Governs veterinarians, not technicians.

• Attending State Board meetings is encouraged by CACVT and CE can be earned by attending
• Meeting dates can be found on SBVM's website or on CACVT's monthly calendar
• Visit the state board site

The Colorado State Practice Act

(PDF of the statute)

Code for Veterinary Technicians

 

Laws Affecting the Veterinary Profession

Past or current laws/bills can be viewed on the Colorado General Assembly Home Page.

2007 Legislative Session:
Mandatory Reporting of Animal Abuse by Veterinarians.
For the exact wording, see section 12-64-121 in the Colorado State Practice Act.
Guidelines for reporting can be found on the CVMA Web Site.

2008 Legislative Session:
Several bills are being watched. Updates will be listed as known. Click on bill number for a PDF of the bill, or visit the Colorado General Assembly Home Page (link above) for the most current updates.

HB 08-1042: Concerning an exemption from the "Colorado Veterinary Practice Act" for trained animal massage practitioners. You can follow the progress of the bill on the CO General Assembly Web site (click on "History"). The bill passed through the House, then the Senate, and now the House is considering the ammendments made in the Senate.

HB 08-1185: requires state-licensed animal shelters and rescues in Colorado to spay/neuter cats and dogs before adoption. You can follow the progress of the bill on the CO General Assembly Web site (click on "History"). The bill has been signed by the Governor and will officially go into effect January 1, 2009.

HB 08-1308: An Act Concerning Treatment That May Result In Harm To Certain Animals, And Making An Appropriation In Connection Therewith
You can follow the progress of the bill on the CO General Assembly Web site (click on "History"). Several revisions have been made. The bill in still in the House committee. 

HB 08-1097: Protection for Emergency Volunteers - Signed into law by Governor Ritter on April 24th.
Click here for a PDF summary of the bill.