Actuuuuuallllly, the reasons are a bit more technical than that. The sad fact is that most states recognize pets as chattel- property, and the recovery is limited to the value of the animal- i.e,. how much did it cost, or how much will it cost to get a replacement. I am all for raising the status of animals in our world. They aren't disposable items, and should be afforded more status. Maybe if they ARE afforded more status, then some of the ANIMAL ABUSE that happens in this world will be treated more seriously.
While everyone makes a mistake, some mistakes are deadlier than others. If a cashier makes a mistake, well, the damage is usually slight. Wrong amount of change, overcharged, etc.
If a doctor (be it people or animals) makes a mistake, the damages can be far greater. Why should someone not be held accountable for thier mistakes? What if they weren't up to date on the latest/safest way to medicate an animal or person? What if they were drinking the night before, and were sloppy?
Accidents are just that- accidents. Negligence is something else.
It isn't lawsuits that drive up malpractice rates. It is insurance companies that drive up malpractice rates. Malpractice cases are the hardest to win and the most expensive to try. The insurance companies do not settle. Next to never. So, if they don't settle, and never pay out..then, why is it that these malpractice cases are driving up rates? Seems like rates should be lower..since nothing gets paid out. It is hoopla. Hype.
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