RCVS launches new help and advice resource for animal owners this National Pet Day

This National Pet Day, Friday 11 April, we are launching a brand new online advice resource to help pet owners do their best for their pets by building a good understanding of how vet teams and practices work.

The new pet owner help and advice section on the RCVS website has been designed to highlight the shared responsibilities of animal owners and their vet teams in ensuring the health and welfare of the animal.

It contains information for pet owners about what they can expect from their vet team, as well as what is expected of them, throughout the different stages of pet ownership. It also explains the professional obligations that shape how vets and vet nurses work, provides valuable tips to help create a successful partnership between pet owners and vet teams, and addresses key questions, such as:

• How do I know if this is the right practice for me and my pet?
• Who is responsible for what in the veterinary practice setting?
• How do I decide on treatment options?
• How do I find out more about vet fees?
• How should I plan for an emergency?

Covering a wide range of topics, the help and advice resource is split into ten sections:

• Shared responsibilities
• Choosing a veterinary practice
• I’ve found a practice I like – what next?
• Who’s who in your veterinary practice
• Treatment and care
• Prescription medication
• Fees and pricing
• Emergency and out-of-hours care
• When things go right
• If things go wrong

The creation of the resource was informed by the views of our Public Advisory Group (PAG), whose members comprise owners/keepers of companion animals, equine and production animals, as well as other users of veterinary services.

Established in 2023, the PAG helps us gain insight into animal owner views and opinions, supporting us in effectively upholding our role as a regulator working in the public interest.

Veterinary surgeon and Chair of the PAG, Louise Allum MRCVS, said: “We’re a nation of animal lovers who all want the best for our pets, which is why this National Pet Day we’re proud to be launching our animal owner help and advice resource.

“This new resource will support pet owners in making informed decisions and collaborating effectively with their veterinary teams, helping to ensure the best outcomes for all parties and uphold animal health and welfare."

“This new resource will support pet owners in making informed decisions and collaborating effectively with their veterinary teams, helping to ensure the best outcomes for all parties and uphold animal health and welfare.

“As a regulator, it is important that we stay connected with the concerns and views of pet owners and use these insights to guide our work. The PAG has performed an essential role in informing the content for this new resource, highlighting the need for greater transparency and support, particularly around veterinary fees, treatment options, and what to expect from vet practices.”

We will be expanding our help and advice section to include further information for horse and livestock owners in due course. To access the new resource, visit our help and advice webpage.