In a case that proves the importance of taking pets to a trained veterinarian, a Houston man has been accused of pretending to be a veterinarian. The man tricked numerous pet owners into allowing their pets to undergo treatment with him. The man has pleaded guilty to practicing medicine without a license.

There are around 50 individuals that took their pets to the bogus veterinarian. He worked as a veterinary technician at an undisclosed Houston office, but was not licensed to operate independently. In Texas, veterinary technicians do not need to be licensed to work with a licensed veterinarian.

The man has been accused of spaying one cat, improperly fixing the broken leg of a dog, and giving fake vaccines to dozens of animals. It is unclear if any animals died as a result of his sham treatments.

Sting Operation Catches Fake Veterinarian in the Act

The man was discovered when police were called about a dog that was not receiving medical attention. The owners said their dog was treated by the suspect and only given an elastic bandage around a broken leg. Authorities partnered with the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners to launch an investigation into the veterinary services.

The agencies brought the fake veterinarian a dog with a skin condition. He diagnosed the dog, claimed it needed a dip, oral medications, and a vaccination for a charge of $150. Authorities were able to charge him with a crime when he provided diagnosis and treatment options. He has further been charged with a felony drug possession for morphine, which is believed to have been acquired illegally.

If Your Pet May Have Been Affected, Contact Authorities

Police are seeking anyone whose pets may have been treated by a veterinarian under the aliases of:

• DogSmart Veterinarian Services
• Wilfredo Gutierrez Pet Services
• Mobile Vet Vaccinations

Authorities are encouraging anyone that may have received treatment by the veterinary to take their pet to a licensed veterinarian immediately.