October 13, 2005
Pet Hospital Franchisee Subject of Animal Mistreatment Lawsuit
Employees of a Banfield Pet Hospital in Tennesee filed a $5 million lawsuit this week against the franchisee alleging gross misconduct and mistreatment of animals. According to a local new source, the lawsuit alleges that the franchisee, also a veterinarian, mistreated the animals, consumed alcohol before operating on them and made death threats against any employee who reported his behavior. In response to the filing of the lawsuit, Banfield released a statement stating that the franchisee is a private franchise owner and not employed by Banfield. Thus far, there is no indication that plaintiffs intend to hold the company vicariously liable for the franchisee's conduct.
Medical Management International, which operates under the Banfield name, is the nation's largest vet hospital operator, providing veterinary medical services and procedures at more than 380 franchised locations in the US, UK and Mexico. As a result of a partnership with PetsMart, the nation's largest retailer of pet related products, Banfield franchises are located at PetsMart stores nationwide.
Posted by franchiselawblog at October 13, 2005 04:38 PM