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Dogs Trust Welcomes Newly Announced Reforms To The Veterinary Sector
2 hours ago 
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Dogs Trust has welcomed today’s announcement from Defra outlining the biggest reforms to the veterinary sector in over sixty years, aimed at improving transparency, fairness and value for pet owners.
The proposed changes are designed to ensure pet owners can better understand costs, avoid unexpected charges and make informed choices about their pets’ care. This follows an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority that found problems in the veterinary market could cost households up to £1 billion over five years, with vet fees rising at nearly twice the rate of inflation.
Some of the measures announced include:
- Vet practices will have to clearly display prices for common treatments and explain treatment options and any changes. This transparency helps pet owners make informed decisions and choose the best care and value for their pets.
- Vet practices must clearly state who owns them, so pet owners know whether their local vet is part of a large chain or an independent business. In addition, every vet practice will need an official operating licence, similar to GP surgeries and care homes.
- Veterinary practices must provide an easier and more effective route for customers to raise concerns.
This announcement comes at a time when Dogs Trust continues to see high levels of handover requests – almost 40,000 last year – with many owners citing the cost of caring for their dogs, including vet bills, as the reason for relinquishing their pets.
In response to the announcement, Karen Reed, Veterinary and Welfare Director at Dogs Trust, says:
“Dogs Trust welcomes the decision to consult on reforming the Veterinary Surgeons Act, which the professions have been long calling for. We work closely with the veterinary professions and rely on their support, so we particularly welcome the announcement to review the regulations governing RVNs and other allied professions.
“We recognise that clear information, transparent pricing and high professional standards are essential to protecting animal welfare. Pets are family members, and owners need confidence that they can make informed decisions about their care. Improving owner satisfaction while supporting veterinary professionals would be a positive step towards a system that works better for both animals and the people who care for them.”
For more information on the changes proposed by Defra, visit www.gov.uk/government/news/pet-owners-to-benefit-from-biggest-vet-sector-reforms-in-60-years
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