SB 17-135

Senate Bill 17-135 removes a requirement for licensed animal chiropractors in Colorado. Previously, these professionals needed permission from a veterinarian before treating an animal. Now, they can treat animals directly without needing that veterinary approval, though the bill encourages them to consult with a vet if the animal is already under one’s care. This change affects animal chiropractors and pet owners seeking their services. Since the bill has been signed into law, it is now in effect and changes how animal chiropractic treatments are regulated in Colorado.

Official Summary

Under current law, a licensed chiropractor, whether or not he or she is registered with the state board of chiropractic examiners to perform animal chiropractic, must obtain a veterinary medical clearance from a licensed veterinarian before performing an act that falls within the chiropractor's scope of practice on an animal patient. The bill removes the veterinary medical clearance requirement for chiropractors who are registered with the state board as animal chiropractors. A licensed chiropractor who is registered as an animal chiropractor and performs animal chiropractic on an animal patient is encouraged, in a timely manner, to consult with a veterinarian treating the animal patient. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)

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