Q COSTARICA — After clarifying that a person’s self-identification as a domestic or wild animal does not imply any biological transformation that justifies veterinary intervention, the Colegio de Médicos Veterinarios (College of Veterinary Physicians) asked its members not to provide consultations to “Therians.”
It even warned of possible legal consequences.
The term “Therian” refers to people who identify spiritually or psychologically as an animal. Unlike a costume or a hobby, for a Therian this identity is intrinsic; they feel that, inside, they are an animal, even though they recognize that they inhabit a human body.
In recent weeks, the Therian phenomenon has sparked curiosity, ridicule, and astonishment as it has spread rapidly throughout Latin America.
“To veterinary professionals and veterinary healthcare providers: Reject any request for medical care from humans who self-identify as ‘Therian.’ Examinations, diagnoses, and treatments on humans are not permitted, under penalty of ethical sanctions, possible charges of practicing the profession without a license, professional misconduct, and related civil liability,” the College stated.
Furthermore, Dr. Silvia Coto, president of the College, indicated that they “respect identity diversity as long as it does not compromise public health and animal welfare.”
Prohibited Activity
On another note, the Municipality of Santa Ana is the first local government to reject the holding of a Therian event this weekend in the canton.
“The local government informs the community that the municipality has not authorized this mass event for the use of Santa Ana Park,” they stated on their Instagram account.