Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine Suspends
Bonaire Veterinarian Charged With Animal Cruelty

ATLANTA … The Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine has issued an emergency suspension of the license of Bonaire veterinarian Dr. Emmett J. Ashley, after finding credible evidence that Dr. Ashley poses an imminent threat to the public health, safety and welfare for failing to meet minimum standards of veterinary care.

The Veterinary Board voted unanimously to take emergency action after receiving evidence that Dr. Ashley failed to provide appropriate medical treatment to a dog found suffering from a neck laceration and dehydration at his Bonaire clinic. The dog was later euthanized as a result of its injuries. Dr. Ashley also faces animal cruelty charges in Houston County.

“The Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine has closely monitored the criminal charges brought against Dr. Ashley while conducting its own investigation into this matter,” Secretary Cox said. “Based on our investigative findings and information received from local law enforcement officials, the Board believes suspension of Dr. Ashley’s license is necessary to protect the public from further potential harm.”

Dr. Ashley’s suspension is effective immediately and prohibits him from practicing veterinary medicine in Georgia. Under state law, he can request an expedited hearing to appeal the Board’s decision. In 1991, Dr. Ashley’s license was suspended for six months with five years probation for violations of the veterinary practice act related to his clinics in Atlanta and Lithia Springs.