Dr. Josh Gehrke, head of Veterinary Services at the AVMA Trust, joins Dr. Andy Roark for a conversation that might make every veterinarian sit up a little straighter. A recent New York court case awarded emotional damages after a dog was struck by a car, declaring the pet an immediate family member. If this precedent stands, what could it mean for veterinary liability insurance, client lawsuits, and the future of our profession? Andy and Josh unpack the case, explore how proximity and emotional distress factored into the ruling, and consider what ripple effects could land in veterinary medicine. From rising insurance costs to changes in how we deliver care, this episode tackles both the what-ifs and the practical pearls that vets need to keep in mind. If you’ve ever wondered how the evolving legal view of pets as family might impact your career, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Gang, let’s get into this episode!

Joshua Gehrke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-gehrke-400211218

AVMALife: https://avmalife.org/

Dr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/

Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/

Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shop

All Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoark

Dr. Joshua E. Gehrke serves as Head of Veterinary Services for the AVMA Trust, where he works alongside the CEO, Lead Trust Veterinarian, and the Trust Team to provide support and resources for veterinary professionals. A graduate of Michigan State University with both his BS and DVM, he went on to complete a small animal internship in Los Angeles, followed by a Neurology and Neurosurgery residency at The Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York.

His career includes roles with BluePearl and MedVet, as well as serving as an award-winning Assistant Professor and leader of the Neurology Service at Michigan State University. Later, as Chief Veterinary Officer for Veterinary United, Dr. Gehrke combined leadership, clinical practice, mentorship, and coaching to guide veterinary teams and strengthen medical care in the community. Today, he continues to champion the profession and support colleagues through his work with the AVMA Trust.