The Brazilian Penal Code starts to include this Monday (8) the illegal practice of veterinary medicine as a crime.  According to legislation, anyone who practices the profession of veterinarian without legal authorization, even if free of charge, is subject to a prison sentence of six months to two years. Related news: Government opens public consultation on generic and similar veterinary drugs. Municipal veterinary hospital starts operating 24 hours in São Paulo. Chamber approves project that criminalizes illegal veterinary practice. The rule modifies Article 282 of the Penal Code, which already deals with the irregular exercise of professions in the health sector, such as medicine, dentistry and pharmacy. With the change, it now expressly includes veterinary medicine.  Penalty and aggravating factors The text also establishes aggravating circumstances for situations in which the conduct results in more serious consequences: In the case of serious or very serious bodily injury to a person, the perpetrator will also be liable for the corresponding crimes provided for in the Penal Code; If there is death, liability includes the crime of homicide; When the practice causes injury or death to an animal, the offender will also be liable for an environmental crime, in accordance with the Environmental Crimes Law. Professional suspension A professional who carries out the activity during a period of suspension or after cancellation of registration or professional qualifications commits the same crime.