NASHVILLE, TN — Prashant Pandya, the East Nashville veterinarian accused of practicing without a license, has bonded out after his arrest, according to law enforcement. Pet owners who say their animals were harmed at Caudle Veterinary Clinic welcomed the news, but they said the case still leaves them worried about what happens next.

The Facts

• What: Prashant Pandya was arrested and later bonded out in a case tied to allegations that he practiced veterinary medicine without a license.
• Where: Caudle Veterinary Clinic in East Nashville.
• When: The arrest was reported this week, and the alleged animal injury described by one pet owner dates to 2020.
• Who: Prashant Pandya, pet owners who say their animals suffered after visits to the clinic, and investigators handling the case.
• Charges: Police say Pandya faces a felony charge for impersonating a veterinarian.
• Status: He has bonded out, and police expect more charges later.

What police say

Authorities say the case centers on whether Pandya held himself out as a veterinarian despite not having the required license. Police have not said publicly how long they believe the conduct went on, but the allegations have drawn concern from former clients and animal owners.

One pet owner, identified only as Chris, said he took a foster cat named Sandy to the clinic in 2020 after the cat developed a limp. Chris said the animal later lost a leg after treatment there, and the experience left him angry and fearful for other pets that might be taken to the clinic.

The case has also raised broader questions about what state oversight can and cannot catch. A longtime Middle Tennessee veterinarian said a person can be involved with a veterinary practice without holding a license, even though only licensed professionals may practice veterinary medicine.

“What does the license mean if someone can practice for years without it and no one finds them?” Chris said.

The investigation

Police say they expect additional charges as the investigation continues. That usually means detectives are still reviewing records, speaking with witnesses, and checking whether there are more complaints connected to the same practice.

In cases like this, investigators often look at clinic files, patient histories, staffing records, and any evidence that shows who provided care and under what title. They may also compare statements from pet owners with business records and licensing information.

Pandya’s attorney has said the defense is cooperating with the investigation. No public tip line was included in the information released with the case.

What the charges mean

A felony charge for impersonating a veterinarian generally means prosecutors believe a person pretended to be licensed or represented himself as qualified to do work that requires a valid license. The state must still prove the case in court, and a charge is not the same as a conviction.

Bond allows a defendant to be released while the case moves forward, usually with conditions set by the court. Those conditions can include appearing for hearings and avoiding new legal trouble. If a defendant fails to appear, the court can revoke bond and issue a warrant.

More charges, if filed, would normally reflect additional alleged conduct uncovered during the investigation. In a case like this, prosecutors may file them after reviewing more witness statements or records from the business.

What happens next

Pandya’s case will now move through the court process, where formal court dates, filings, and any further charges could come next. The timeline depends on what prosecutors decide to pursue and what the judge sets on the docket.

For pet owners, the immediate concern is whether the investigation expands and whether any additional safeguards come from the case. Those who spoke publicly said they hope the legal process brings accountability and prevents more animals from being harmed.

Have information on a crime? Contact local police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).