The Surrey Animal Hospital in Surrey BC has filed a lawsuit against Victoria Veira for defamation on TikTok.

A recent legal battle involving Victoria Veira, who made widely-viewed TikTok videos accusing the Surrey Animal Hospital of veterinary malpractice, is still unfolding.

Her video content alleges improper care for her dog, Charlie, during a neutering procedure in 2022, which she says resulted in a subsequent infection.

Relying on her freedom of speech, Veira insists her content is true and falls within the boundaries of fair comment, while the Surrey Animal Hospital pushes back, arguing the videos are defamatory and damaging to their reputation.

Post-surgery infection statements

They insist that the infection in Charlie’s post-surgery was not due to their negligence, but rather a result of Veira’s lack of care.

In a twist, the Surrey veterinary hospital attempted to secure an injunction to take down Veira’s TikTok videos in advance of the trial, but the request was rejected.

Supreme Court Justice John Gibb-Carsely argued that such action, in a defamation context, is only reserved for extreme cases and when the defamatory content is impossible to justify.

The judge did recognize that Veira referring to the clinic as a “slaughterhouse” could be seen as defamatory, lowering the clinic’s public standing.

He went on to suggest, however, that the core of Veira’s assertion was that the clinic offered poor veterinary service, which may be defensible at trial.

The Surrey Animal Hospital

In a reaction to the decision, the Surrey Animal Hospital emphasized the judge’s statement on the defamatory nature of Veira’s comments.

On the other side, Veira’s lawyer, Noah Abrahams, expressed satisfaction at the failure of the injunction, affirming Veira’s intention was only to share her experiences.

Lawyers for both parties seem open to settling before the matter goes to trial. The case is emblematic of an increasing trend of defamation lawsuits linked to social media posts, specifically on platforms like TikTok, which has a broad audience.

The opinion is strong, these incidents are more than personal disputes, they reflect a changing legal landscape in the age of social media.

It’s worth noting that the Surrey Animal Hospital has a 1.7-star rating on Yelp.

What to do if your pet is injured by the vet during surgery

In a world where we love our pets as much as our family, a vet’s mistake during surgery can be deeply distressing. We entrust them with our companions’ health, expecting meticulous care. However, mistakes can happen, even in the best clinics.

The moment you discover your pet is injured, remain calm. Your pet’s well-being depends on your ability to think clearly. Start by assessing the extent of the injury.

Serious or minor, it’s crucial to consult a professional. Reach out to another vet or a specialized animal hospital. Quick and accurate advice can prevent further complications.

Avoiding any confrontation

Speaking to the vet who performed the surgery is equally important. Stay composed, avoiding any confrontation. Inform them about your pet’s condition. Many vets will want to rectify any mistake they may have made. However, remember to prioritize your pet’s health above all.

If the injury is severe, consider getting a second opinion. It’s a step that can provide reassurance and additional information about your pet’s condition. Locate another reputable vet in your area. Be sure to communicate every detail of the prior surgery.

Documenting the injury

Documenting the injury is a crucial part of the process. Take photographs, keep a record of any correspondence with the vet, and maintain a log of your pet’s symptoms. These records can serve as evidence if you decide to take legal action.

Engage a veterinary malpractice lawyer if you believe your pet’s injury was due to negligence. They can guide you through the legal landscape. Pursuing legal action can be emotionally and financially draining.

Hospital in Surrey BC Sues TikToker

While you handle these issues, never forget to care for your pet. Monitor them closely, provide them comfort, and ensure they’re eating and drinking properly.

If medications have been prescribed, administer them as directed. Spend quality time with your pet to help them recover both physically and emotionally.

Reach out to support groups or pet loss hotlines in times of distress. They offer resources and emotional comfort to pet owners in crisis. Share your experience with others. It can be therapeutic and help others facing similar situations.

Remember that vets are human, and humans make mistakes. It doesn’t make it right, but it’s important to stay rational. Your goal is to ensure your pet’s recovery and well-being. Let your love for your pet guide your actions in these challenging times.