[Doping in animal rights law: the responsibility of the veterinary surgeon]

Unlike the situation in humans, it is illegal to administer doping drugs to animals. The Doping Commission of the European Council has defined the term doping. According to this definition, the therapeutic use of drugs is not doping. The treatment of pain is also therapeutic. However, governing bodies of sport can apply stricter regulations (doping lists). It is possible for veterinarians to infringe paragraph 3 (11) of the German animal welfare act if they act recklessly or without due care, and a prosecution may result. It is therefore obligatory for the veterinarian to advise of the possible consequences of administering a drug which has a doping effect, or is included on a doping list.