Inspection Reveals Stomach-Turning Violations (Image Credits: Images.ctfassets.net)
Selma, Calif. – State regulators stripped a local veterinarian of his license last month after a 2022 inspection revealed deceased neonatal puppies stored in open buckets inside a clinic freezer amid widespread unsanitary conditions.[1]
Inspection Reveals Stomach-Turning Violations
On August 16, 2022, Jessica Sieferman, executive officer of the California Veterinary Medical Board, conducted a surprise inspection at South County Veterinary Hospital. The visit uncovered 25 serious violations that painted a picture of neglect and poor hygiene.
Inspectors noted cluttered, dirty rooms emitting foul odors of blood and organs. Sinks and countertops held trash, used scalpel blades, syringes, pet hair, and buckets of animal parts. Nearly every area lacked proper ventilation and sanitation.[1]
Among the most disturbing findings, several deceased neonatal puppies sat in five open white buckets within the freezer. A soda can rested nearby next to frozen canine semen, while expired medications and misbranded drugs lined shelves elsewhere.
- Unsanitary storage of deceased animals
- Unsterile surgical equipment
- Improper food and beverage placement near biologics
- Expired and mislabeled drugs
- Overall facility filth and clutter
Malpractice Cases Span Nearly a Decade
Court documents detailed five malpractice incidents from 2015 to 2022. The veterinarian, Rodney Ken Hatayama, often skipped proper examinations, issued incorrect dosages, and neglected post-surgical pain relief. Record-keeping fell short in multiple cases.
One prominent example involved Eric Garcia’s Chihuahua, Mr. Tillman. In May 2015, Hatayama performed an orthopedic surgery on the 4-year-old dog’s hind legs using a non-standard technique. He drilled holes into the bones and secured them with wire, despite lacking board certification in orthopedics. No pain medication followed the procedure.[1]
Garcia filed a complaint with the board in 2016 after another vet reviewed X-rays and remarked, “That is not how you perform this surgery.” Mr. Tillman endured four corrective operations but, at age 15, still battles chronic pain and mobility problems.
Regulatory Timeline Leads to Revocation
The board granted Hatayama two chances to correct the violations in the year after the inspection. He addressed some issues but failed to resolve all concerns. Malpractice allegations surfaced formally in April 2025.
Officials revoked his license effective January 30, 2026. Hatayama surrendered it the next day. The Department of Consumer Affairs, which oversees the board, offered no comment on whether he practiced in the interim.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Botched surgery on Mr. Tillman |
| 2016 | Garcia files complaint |
| Aug. 2022 | Inspection finds 25 violations |
| April 2025 | Malpractice charges filed |
| Jan. 2026 | License revoked and surrendered |
Pet Owner’s Lasting Ordeal
Garcia described the ongoing toll on his pet. “He has his good days. On the days that it’s bad, it’s work. I have to stay up with him all night because he can’t sleep,” he said. The owner now carries the elderly dog in a backpack for outings.
Garcia urged others facing concerns. “If you see something [that’s concerning], don’t stay silent. Speak up, or ask the doctor what’s going on.” His experience highlighted delays in regulatory action despite early complaints.
- Unsanitary storage of dead puppies triggered deeper scrutiny.
- Botched surgeries caused prolonged animal suffering.
- Owners should report issues promptly to veterinary boards.
This case underscores the importance of oversight in veterinary care. Facilities must prioritize hygiene and competence to protect pets. What steps can pet owners take to vet their veterinarians? Share your thoughts in the comments.