Texas licensing board denies veterinary license to Catherine Pantiglione amid regulatory review

In a recent meeting of the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, significant discussions centered around the eligibility of a foreign-trained veterinarian seeking to practice in Texas. The board reviewed a contested case involving Catherine Pantiglione, who graduated from the University of Bologna in Italy and has over 20 years of experience in veterinary rehabilitation.

The board's staff attorney, Kristen Stavroff, presented a proposal for decision indicating that Pantiglione is ineligible for both a special and standard veterinary license in Texas. This determination stems from the fact that her educational institution is not accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), a requirement under Texas law for obtaining a veterinary license.

During the meeting, it was clarified that Pantiglione could pursue two alternative pathways to licensure: the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) certification or the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE). However, both options require meeting specific criteria, which may be challenging given her lengthy absence from formal education.

Pantiglione's representative, Theresa Byrd, argued that her client’s lack of response to previous proceedings was due to unawareness of the legal deadlines, not neglect. Byrd emphasized Pantiglione's extensive experience and capability in animal rehabilitation, urging the board to reconsider the decision based on her qualifications.

The board ultimately acknowledged the constraints of current Texas statutes, which do not allow for exceptions in Pantiglione's case. The discussion highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by foreign-trained veterinarians in Texas, raising questions about the accessibility of licensure for experienced professionals who may not meet specific educational criteria.

As the board moves forward, the implications of this case resonate with the broader community, particularly in addressing the need for qualified veterinary professionals in Texas. The board's decisions will continue to shape the landscape of veterinary practice in the state, impacting both practitioners and the animals they serve.