Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Brooke Goosman owned a three-year-old cat that suffered from epilepsy. A veterinarian prescribed phenobarbital, which Goosman obtained from Medicine Mart Pharmacy every few months. After filling the prescription, Goosman administered it to the cat twice daily. More than two weeks later, Goosman noticed that the medication bottle identified a different patient and drug.

Goosman called the pharmacy and allegedly was told that she had been given Azathioprine, a drug for dogs, but that her cat would be fine. A few days later, the animal became lethargic and was taken to the veterinarian. Despite intervention, the cat died.

Goosman sued Medicine Mart and others, alleging pharmacy negligence.

An arbitrator awarded the plaintiff more than $26,300.

Citation: Goosman v. Medicine Mart Pharmacy, No. 21-2-00807-39 (Wash. Super. Ct. Yakima Cnty. June 28, 2022).

Plaintiff counsel: Adam Karp, Bellingham, Wash.

Plaintiff expert: Hilary Hager, animal valuation, Mukilteo, Wash.