ABSTRACT
Every day, more and more veterinarians and related professionals are called to collaborate in cases of crimes involving animals. However, their performance is generally reduced to an opinion based on the classical knowledge of the profession, but in many cases without a forensic perspective. The presence of a veterinarian at the crime scene from the beginning of the investigation would reduce the omission of evidence generated by animal action. It also favours a deficient or incomplete interpretation of the evidence due to ignorance of the context of the place where the events occurred. The same results can be obtained with the participation of a veterinarian who is unfamiliar with forensics, field criminology, and criminology aspects. In both cases, the expert report could be based on incomplete, disjointed, and decontextualized information. The foregoing translates into the need to carry out the work in a multidisciplinary manner with professionals with knowledge and skills to face the investigation in an ethical manner. This would reduce the omission of evidence present at the crime scene and a poor interpretation of the context in which it is found. One of the critical points of the investigation is the application of good forensic practices at the crime scene that allow the collection and analysis of scientifically and legally valid evidence necessary to substantiate an accusation or allow the exoneration of a suspect. While the legal world advances in the possibility of incorporating in a protocol way and from the beginning of an investigation, veterinarians and related professionals, it is essential to acquire the necessary knowledge to face these challenges. What to do or what not to do will preserve the integrity of those who participate in the crime scene, live animals, witnesses, vestiges, and evidence. In general, the entire investigation process.
