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The current Law of Ukraine "On Veterinary Medicine" was initially adopted in 1992 and has undergone several amendments over the past three decades. However, the dynamic changes of our time necessitate a new version of the law that meets modern demands and aligns Ukrainian veterinary legislation with European requirements and standards.  

Thus, after prolonged negotiations and consultations, a new Law of Ukraine "On Veterinary Medicine" was adopted in 2021 and will be in force on September 1, 2025. Notably, representatives of private veterinary practices were involved in the law’s development for the first time, allowing a professional perspective on proposed regulations by state authorities, as well as the incorporation of feedback from the veterinary community.

This article provides a brief overview of the key changes that will affect licensed practicing veterinarians. As the subordinate regulations envisioned by this law are developed and adopted, we will continue to keep you updated on these regulatory changes.

Expansion of Powers for Private Veterinarians (Article 49)
Licensed private veterinarians will now have the authority to issue veterinary passports and certificates, a function previously reserved exclusively for state veterinarians. This change will significantly simplify the document acquisition process for pet owners, though it will impose additional administrative responsibilities on private veterinarians.  

For instance, private veterinarians will need to obtain the necessary authorizations (in accordance with the current procedures) and follow specific protocols, such as entering issued documents into the Unified State Register of Veterinary Documents.  

Importantly, obtaining the authority to issue veterinary passports and certificates is optional for private veterinarians.  

Integration of Licensed Veterinarians into the State Animal Disease Control System (Articles 15, 23, 24, 30, 32, 35, 87, 91)
The listed articles provide for the engagement of licensed veterinary specialists in implementing veterinary and sanitary measures, monitoring animal diseases, and ensuring the execution of disease eradication and quarantine plans when needed. The law also specifies the mechanisms for involving licensed facilities and veterinary professionals in these efforts, including payment for their services.  

However, details on the terms of such cooperation, including payment arrangements for private veterinarians, remain unclear. Bureaucratic hurdles related to employment contracts and state funding of these services complicate the practical implementation of these provisions. Resolving these issues will require further dialogue with government authorities to ensure the effective implementation of the law.  

Licensing of Veterinary Drug Trade (Article 74)
The new law introduces licensing requirements for both wholesale and retail sales of veterinary medicinal products. This will be regulated under a separate law, “On Licensing Types of Economic Activities,” with consideration of specific nuances in the veterinary sector.  

A license for retail sales certifies the right to sell veterinary medicinal products directly to end users. Conversely, a license for wholesale sales allows the supply of such products to licensed veterinarians, veterinary institutions, and other licensed operators in the veterinary medicine market. The licensing terms for both wholesale and retail trade are yet to be developed and approved.  

Online Veterinary Drug Sales and Prescription Regulations (Articles 76, 77)
Operators licensed for retail veterinary drug sales will be permitted to sell these products online, provided that no prescription is required for their purchase.  

Drugs requiring a prescription must be sold based on a veterinary prescription in paper or electronic form. Licensed veterinarians or veterinary professionals from licensed institutions may personally administer prescription drugs without a written prescription, provided they maintain appropriate records.  

Additional Reporting Requirements (Articles 78, 79)
The law introduces quarterly reporting requirements for veterinary specialists regarding the quantities of antimicrobial veterinary drugs used. The reporting procedure is yet to be developed.  

Operators in the veterinary drug market will also be required to maintain detailed records of prescription drug sales. An annual audit will be conducted to compare incoming and outgoing stock, identify discrepancies, and ensure compliance with inventory requirements.  

Conclusion  
While the law addresses many pressing issues, certain provisions still require clarification and refinement. For example, the challenges related to state payment for private veterinarians’ services remain unresolved. Additionally, Article 88, which concerns the material and social security of veterinary specialists, has sparked debate.  

According to this article, the lives and health of veterinary professionals must be insured by their employers against occupational injuries or diseases sustained while working with animals.  

We hope that continued collaboration with government bodies will result in the development and approval of effective regulations to ensure the successful implementation of this foundational law in the veterinary medicine sector.