I've been using the same vet clinic for 5 years and have never changed my address on file. My pets have had all of their appointments on time, every time, every year. Suddenly, the vet clinic claims they need a valid proof of identity and I'll need a state ID to prove that my dog and cat are mine and for their records or I won't be able to get them their annuals or any form of care anymore.
I don't have a driver's license/ID, mine has expired because I don't drive and haven't been able to go to the DMV just yet. I've been using my passport for essentially everything, but the vet says it isn't a valid proof of identity. I have people telling me that they've never had to show any form of ID outside of if they were boarding their dog, dropping off for grooming services, and so on.
The vet tech told me that she's never worked in a facility that DIDN'T require owner's driver's license #/ID number, but other pet owners I've spoken to have never run into this issue. I'm terrified and I fear losing my pets just because I don't have my state ID renewed yet and annuals are coming up. I've made a DMV appointment, but the closest one is a way away. I know I messed up somehow. I've never heard of this before.
Is this normal? I've tried to look up laws in regards to this but I'm getting a lot of mixed answers. Any insight? Has anyone else ever experienced this?
EDIT: I'm in Tennessee, in the USA.
