Tag: BVA

Pet owners to benefit from biggest vet sector reforms in 60 years

Clearer pricing will help pet owners compare costs and shop around, saving families money

Millions of pet owners and vet professionals across the country will benefit from major reforms to the veterinary sector – the first overhaul in sixty years.

The reforms help households understand what they are paying for, avoid unexpected costs and choose the best value care for their pets.

They come after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found problems in the veterinary market could be costing households up to £1 billion over five years. The CMA found that vet fees have risen at nearly twice the rate of inflation – which is why this government is taking action.

The proposals will make the system clearer, fairer and more transparent for owners – while supporting veterinary professionals alike.

Benefits for pet owners:

  • Clearer prices easing the ability to look around: Vet practices will be required to publish price lists for common treatments, and be transparent about options and changes allowing pet owners to choose the best treatment for their animals. Knowing key prices beforehand helps owners to choose the best value.
  • More competition to lower costs over time: Vet businesses must disclose who owns them so pet owners know if their local practice is part of a larger chain or independent. This knowledge and price transparency helps owners to decide which practice to use which increases competition and bring down costs over time.
  • Greater confidence in care: Every vet practice will need an official operating licence – similar to GP surgeries and care homes.
  • Fairer treatment complaints process: Stronger rules on how veterinary businesses must operate with an easier and more effective route for customers to raise concerns along with more support offered to allow vets and vet nurses to carry out their roles successfully; benefitting animal health and welfare.
  • Better access to quality care: New measures will bring veterinary nurses and certain allied veterinary professionals into regulation, freeing up veterinary surgeons to focus on more specialist care, improving access and reducing delays.

Benefits for veterinary professionals:

  • Legal recognition for veterinary nurses to strengthen professional identity, helping improve job satisfaction and boosting retention rates. 
  • Regulatory oversight of veterinary businesses, not just individual vets, so the responsibility for upholding standards is shared and clearer.
  • Modernised processes for registration and “fitness to practice”, focusing on current competence rather than past mistakes. 
  • A modern governance model for the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), whose current structure has remained largely unchanged since 1966 and now lags behind other healthcare regulators. Proposals will reduce potential conflicts of interest and strengthen public and professional trust.

Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Hayman said: “Pets are part of the family, and owners deserve clear information, fair treatment and confidence in the care their animals receive.

“We’re focused on making vet services work better for families by improving transparency, increasing choice and helping people make informed decisions, while continuing to support the professionals who care for our animals.”

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss said: “Updating these rules will help build a modern veterinary service that is easier for the public to understand and navigate, while strengthening animal health outcomes and supporting a skilled, resilient workforce.

“Reforming the Veterinary Surgeons Act is a crucial step towards building a stronger, more resilient profession. This consultation gives pet owners and professionals the chance to help shape a system that works better for everyone.”

British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams MRCVS said: “Veterinary teams play a vital role in society, from caring for the nation’s animals and supporting our farmers and food production, through to assisting international trade, disease control and public health.

If we’re to continue delivering this work effectively, we need reformed veterinary legislation, and those changes will impact how we go about all aspects of our work; it’s therefore imperative that colleagues engage with Defra’s proposals, ensure their voices are heard and grasp this opportunity to shape a veterinary sector that’s fit for the 21st century.” 

Martin Coleman, Chair of the CMA Inquiry Group said: “We welcome the government’s consultation to update this vital regulation and protect pet owners.

“Our vets investigation is ongoing, but we have already set out our strong concern that the current rules are not fit for purpose and need reforming to keep pace with commercial practice and further build pet owner trust in veterinary businesses.”

Why change is needed:

60% of vet practices are owned by non-vets, with many operating under unclear ownership structures. The reforms propose a new licencing system requiring businesses to meet clear standards – with enforcement action, including potential loss of licence, where they fail to do so.

A modern disciplinary process will accompany the reforms, with a wider range of sanctions to ensure customer concerns are properly addressed and support veterinary professionals to safely carry out their roles. This will work to improve care whilst reducing punitive outcomes and will benefit both owners and professionals alike.

Veterinary professionals are essential to the UK’s high animal health and welfare standards. These reforms strengthen professional recognition, modernise outdated regulation and help safeguard the profession’s ability to continue to protect the UK from the threats to disease and food security. 

This announcement follows the publication of the Animal Welfare Strategy, and is part of this Government’s ambitious reforms to animal welfare – improving the lives of millions of animals across the UK. 

The consultation will run for 8 weeks.

Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “For years, Which? has been exposing unclear pricing and poor practice in the vet industry so it’s good to see the government taking steps to modernise the sector and ensure it treats pet owners fairly. 

“The current regulation is decades out of date and oversight of veterinary businesses, not just individual vets, is urgently needed. The government needs to ensure that its new licensing system has the right sanctions in place for businesses which break the rules. 

“The government must ensure these changes are introduced as soon as possible to restore consumer confidence in the sector. As part of these reforms, it should also legislate to establish a mandatory Ombudsman scheme with the power to make binding judgements about customer complaints and take action against any vets or vet practices falling short.”

BVA calls on vets to support reform of outdated veterinary legislation as Government launches proposals

Following years of campaigning by the British Veterinary Association (BVA), the UK Government has today (27 January 2026) taken a major step towards reforming the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA), launching a public consultation seeking views on its proposals for reformed legislation.   

The consultation will run for eight weeks and seeks input from across the veterinary team and from the public on a range of proposals that could see significant changes to how veterinary professionals are regulated, including the introduction of regulation for allied veterinary professionals (e.g. equine dental technicians and cattle hoof trimmers); vet businesses could be regulated for the first time; and there could be significant changes to the governance arrangements including the roles undertaken by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).  

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has published its proposals following months of intensive engagement with a group of key organisations including BVA, RCVS, the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) and the Vet Schools Council (VSC), to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the sector and develop recommendations on what the options for proposed reform could look like.  

Reform of the VSA will have a significant impact on vets’ daily work, the service they provide their clients and the care given to animals. BVA will formally respond to the consultation on behalf of its members. BVA is also strongly encouraging all vets to support reform by engaging with the proposals and sharing their views with Defra via the consultation. 

British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams MCVRS said: “Vets play a vital role in society, from caring for the nation’s animals and supporting our farmers and food production, through to assisting international trade, disease control and public health.

“If we’re to continue delivering this work effectively, we urgently need reformed veterinary legislation, and those changes will impact how we go about all aspects of our work. It’s therefore imperative that colleagues engage with Defra’s proposals, ensure their voices are heard and grasp this opportunity to shape veterinary legislation that’s fit for the 21st century.” 

For more information on what Defra’s proposals mean, BVA members can access a series of recorded webinars explaining the detail.

There is also a Frequently Asked Questions section on the BVA website:

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/veterinary-surgeons-act/  

BVA members can share their views with BVA via email at policy@bva.co.uk.  

The consultation closes at 23:59pm on 25 March 2026.

Massive win for animal welfare as new new vet-backed law set to clamp down on puppy smuggling  

After a long and sustained campaign by British Veterinary Association, the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill has received Royal Assent to become law. 

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has hailed the passage of the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill into law today as a huge win for animal welfare, as well as public health.  

Introduced as a Private Members’ Bill earlier this year by vet and MP Danny Chambers with support from BVA, this legislation will introduce crucial measures to clamp down on puppy smuggling and ban the import of dogs and cats with illegal mutilations like cropped ears or declawing. 

It will also better protect public health by reducing the risk of diseases such as rabies and Brucella canis from being imported into the country, by increasing the minimum age that puppies can enter the UK and preventing heavily pregnant dogs from being brought in.    

Data from BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey revealed that 1 in 5 UK small animal vets had seen puppies they believe to have been imported illegally into the country in the last year. French bulldog puppies were by far the most common breed vets reported concerns about, with just under half (48%) of vets who had seen suspicious puppies referring to this breed.  

Responding to news, British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams MRCVS said:  “Every day, vets in practice see the devastating consequences of puppy smuggling and the loopholes that allow illegal and brutal mutilations like ear cropping and tail docking to continue. 

“After years of tireless campaigning by the British Veterinary Association, the wide-ranging measures in this new legislation will finally stop criminal gangs from abusing pet travel rules for profit as well as tackle rising cases of imported diseases, such as Brucella canis, which are not currently endemic to the UK and which can be passed from pets to people.”  

Danny Chambers, vet and MP for Winchester who introduced the Bill, said:  “As a vet, I’ve treated many dogs with cruelly cropped ears or docked tails, leaving them physically scarred and emotionally traumatised.

Knowing this Bill will help us put a stop to this abuse and have a bigger impact on animal welfare than I could possibly have achieved in a lifetime treating individual animals, demonstrates how important this legislation will prove to be.

“Thanks to the support of organisations like the BVA and other animal welfare nonprofits, we got the Animal Welfare Bill through the Commons, through the Lords, and today passed into law.” 

Read more about BVA’s campaign here: 

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/pet-imports/  

Have a pet with fireworks phobia? Prepare now to prevent injury and distress, urge vets

With fireworks season fast approaching (it’s arrived already in Drylaw! – Ed.) , the British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued top tips to help owners protect their pets and livestock from possible injury and distress in the run up to Diwali (20 October), Bonfire Night (5 November) and New Year’s Eve. 

Signs of fireworks-related distress can vary from animal to animal. While some pets show obvious signs of fireworks-related anxiety, such as panting, drooling and attempts to escape, there are also more subtle signs that owners should be aware of, including restlessness and toileting in the house.

Cats often hide, while rabbits may keep very still and thump the ground with their back feet. Poultry are especially at risk of ‘smother’, where in a fear response birds huddle together, which can result in death for some. 

Each year, vets across the UK see animals with firework-related injuries at this time of the year. By far the most commonly reported cases are self injuries caused by fireworks-related anxiety, such as tooth injuries to dogs from chewing furniture or fractures in horses that had bolted from their fields.

The debris and remnants of fireworks and paper lanterns in fields and surrounding countryside can also pose a serious risk of injury to livestock, wildlife and zoo animals. 

British Veterinary Association President Dr Rob Williams MRCVS said: “While fireworks displays can be fun for some of us, they can be extremely traumatic for pets, farm animals, wildlife and animals in zoos. Each year, vets treat animals with injuries caused as a result of stress and fright, as well as burns. 

“You can also take simple steps around the house now, such as creating a den for dogs and cats, to keep them safe and calm when fireworks start. Make sure pets are microchipped with up-to-date details in case of escape.  

“Longer-term treatment options can be successful with professional input and owner commitment and patience. If your pet gets significantly distressed by fireworks, you should contact your vet now to discuss noise desensitisation techniques, pheromone products and other treatments that may be appropriate for your pet.” 

BVA suggests ten top tips to help pet owners and livestock keepers prepare animals as fireworks season approaches: 

  1. Talk to your vet to discuss treatment options for fireworks-induced stress. This may include drugs to help dogs with noise phobias or pheromone products to apply next to your pets’ den and around the house to keep them calm. 
  2. Create a well-padded den for your pet to access ahead of fireworks season so they have a safe place to hide when fireworks start. 
  3. Ensure your pet is microchipped and your details are up to date on the database, in case it runs away from home. 
  4. Move small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs to a quiet place indoors. 
  5. Close windows and curtains and provide background noise to help mask the fireworks. 
  6. If your pet is distressed, remain calm yourself. Restlessness or toileting in the house can be signs of stress, so don’t punish them. 
  7. Keep livestock housed at times when fireworks are likely to be set off locally and remove any firework debris from grazing pasture before letting them out. 
  8. Horses may be better turned out in a field than stabled, as in a stable they may feel enclosed and unable to move. Owners should consult a qualified equine behaviourist if they have significant concerns about their horse’s response to fireworks. 
  9. If you’re hosting a fireworks display, avoid setting them off near horses, livestock or companion animals. Dispose of any debris and remnants of fireworks responsibly. 
  10. Before lighting a bonfire, remember to check for any wild animals that may be hiding in it. 

BVA continues to call on Government to introduce stricter regulations around the sale and use of fireworks. On 12 November, the Fireworks Impact Coalition, of which BVA is a member, will hold an event in parliament hosted by Sarah Owen MP to lobby MPs for changes in the law to better take account of the impact of fireworks on both people and animals. 

See BVA’s recommendations on firework controls: 

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/fireworks-and-animal-welfare/  

Vets should publish prices, says competition watchdog

Major reforms would require vet businesses to make ‘fundamental changes’ to the way they support pet owners

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today published the provisional decision in its market investigation into the UK’s £6.3 billion veterinary services market.

  • Proposals to transform consumer experience will lead to more choice and savings. 
  • Twenty-one measures proposed, including better information on prices, treatments, medicines and ownership, a price cap on written prescriptions and a new comprehensive price comparison website.
  • Current regulatory system not fit for purpose and must be modernised to keep pace with commercial practice and ensure pet owners are protected.

CMA Provisional Finding

The market investigation – which is principally into vet businesses, not individual vets – identifies concerns, including that pet owners:

  • are often unaware of the prices of commonly used services and whether their local practices are part of large national chains
  • have no effective way of comparing vet prices when they get a pet or move areas
  • may be paying twice as much for commonly prescribed medicines from vet practices than they could pay online, amounting to hundreds of pounds more than they need to pay
  • often receive no written estimate for courses of treatment running to hundreds – or even thousands – of pounds
  • are often unable to tell if they are getting good value for money from pet care plans
  • may be overpaying for individual cremations often have no effective means of complaining when things go wrong

These factors are market wide and mean consumers do not benefit from strong competition between vet businesses. Average vet prices across the market rose by 63% between 2016 and 2023 – well above the rate of inflation.

The CMA also found that pet owners pay 16.6% more on average at large vet groups than at independent vets. For at least 3 of those large groups, average prices increased faster at practices they bought than at practices that remained independent. For a substantial part of the market as a whole, profits are much higher than they should be if competition was working well.

In addition, the CMA has found that the current regulatory system is not fit for purpose. It only regulates individual veterinary professionals and not vet businesses, despite the majority of practices being part of a large corporate group.

Given its market-wide concerns, the CMA’s independent expert inquiry group has provisionally decided that a far-reaching package of 21 measures is required to address the above concerns and reinvigorate competition in this market.  

Martin Coleman, Chair of the Inquiry Group, said: “Pet owners are often left in the dark, not knowing whether their practice is independent or part of a chain or what a fair price looks like.

“They are sometimes committing to expensive treatment without understanding the price in advance. And they do not always feel confident asking for a prescription or buying medicine online – even when it could save them hundreds of pounds.

“Even where pet owners could access some of this information, it is difficult for them to compare prices and services – despite the fact that, in most of the country, there are several local practices they could choose between.

“We are proposing major reforms aimed at bringing about a transformation in the experience of pet owners and empowering them to make the best choices for their circumstances.

“We believe that our proposals would enable pet owners to choose the right vet, the right treatment, and the right way to purchase medicine – without confusion or unnecessary cost.”

CMA’s proposed remedies

The CMA is today proposing a wide-ranging set of remedies to address these issues, including:

  • Requiring vet businesses to publish comprehensive price lists, be clear if they are part of a large group, and make sure that their policies and processes allow vets to act in the best interests of pets and pet owners. These measures will give pet owners the information they need to choose the right practice and treatment options for them.
  • Making it easier for pet owners to access cheaper medicines online, including by requiring vets to tell pet owners about savings they make by buying medicines online and, where a medicine is likely to be needed frequently, automatically providing a written prescription to enable the pet owner to purchase the medicine elsewhere (unless the pet owner chooses otherwise), and capping the price of providing prescriptions at £16. These measures will help prompt consumers to consider buying medication online and protect them from having to pay excessive prices for the prescriptions they would need to do so.
  • Requiring vets to give pet owners clear price information when they are choosing a treatment, with prices in writing for treatments over £500 and itemised bills. This will make it easier for consumers to consider different treatment options and providers.
  • Requiring the RCVS to enhance its Find a Vet website to include pricing data drawing on the price lists vets will be required to publish; this data can also be used by third party websites and apps. This will allow consumers to compare vet prices much more effectively, for instance when they first get a pet or move areas.
  • Requiring vets to give clear price information to pet owners arranging a cremation. This is important to allow pet owners to make the best decisions for their circumstances, at an especially emotional time.
  • Requiring vets to give pricing breakdowns for pet care plans. This will allow pet owners to better decide if these would provide good value for money in their own circumstances.
  • Recommending that the government urgently prioritises a new Veterinary Surgeons Act and updates regulation to include veterinary businesses, as well as individual vets and nurses, and give the regulator powers to set and enforce requirements and standards for these businesses. Reform is needed to make sure pet owners’ interests are protected and there is an effective complaints handling route if things go wrong.

The main focus of the inquiry is into veterinary businesses, not individual vets. The CMA is concerned to hear that some vets and vet nurses face abuse from frustrated clients – they deserve respect, not hostility.

The proposed remedies would be good for vets, further enhancing trust in the profession and protecting clinical judgment from undue commercial pressure.

Implementation

The CMA’s final decision will be published by March 2026. The reforms would be implemented through a legally binding CMA Order and could see some measures coming into force before the end of 2026. Small vet businesses will be given additional time for implementation.

Vet businesses can make changes that would benefit their customers in the meantime, and the CMA encourages them to consider doing so.

The CMA fully recognises that the proposed changes would require businesses to adapt systems or make other changes which would incur some administrative costs. The CMA’s provisional view is that the benefits to consumers of these measures would far outweigh the costs to businesses.

Next steps 

The CMA will now consult on the Provisional Decision. All interested parties are welcome to respond to the provisional conclusions by the deadline of Wednesday 12 November 2025 via our consultation page.

For further information, visit the Veterinary services case page, which includes key statistics and the administrative timetable.  

The British Veterinary Association (BVA), which represents more than 19,000 vets across the UK, has responded to the CMA’s ‘provisional decision’ following its market investigation into UK veterinary services for household pets.

The report, published today (Wednesday 15 October), was clear that ‘veterinary professionals work hard, act ethically, and put animal welfare first’.

It also set out 21 measures that it believes will improve ‘information on prices, treatments, medicines and ownership; introduce a price cap on written prescriptions; deliver a new comprehensive price comparison website; and highlights that the current regulatory system is not fit for purpose and must be modernised to keep pace with commercial practice and ensure pet owners are protected.’ 

Responding to the CMA’s provisional decision, British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams said: “At first glance, there’s lots of positives in the CMA’s provisional decision that both vets and pet owners will welcome, including greater transparency of pricing and practice ownership; reform of the outdated regulatory framework; and support for our calls for regulation of vet businesses. The CMA also recognises that vets and vet teams are highly professional, and ‘work hard, act ethically, and put animal welfare first’.  

“However, we do have concerns that some of the measures outlined will impact how services are delivered.

“In particular, we need clarity on the proposed introduction of comprehensive price lists, because how vet care is delivered is varied and complex and unless the CMA gets this right, it could end up creating greater confusion for consumers, which in turn could have a negative impact on animal welfare.” 

Read the full CMA provisional report here.

Prestigious award presented to University of Edinburgh veterinary student at BVA Day

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has honoured the achievements and dedication of two veterinary professionals at its annual BVA Day.  

The BVA Research Travel Scholarship (Harry Steele-Bodger Memorial Scholarship Fund) was awarded to University of Edinburgh final year vet student Natalie Bubenheim and the BVA Council Impact Award (Bleby Cup) was presented to Dr Veselina Trufcheva-Edwards at the annual BVA members event, held at its London headquarters in Mansfield Street on Thursday (25 September).

The event included the association’s Annual General Meeting and the election of its new President and Junior Vice President. 

Natalie Bubenheim – winner of the BVA Research Travel Scholarship (Harry Steele-Bodger Memorial Scholarship Fund) 

This travel scholarship was established in 1953 to honour Mr Henry Steele-Bodger, President of the BVA 1939-41, in recognition of his great services to the veterinary profession and to agriculture, particularly during the Second World War.

The full award has been granted to Natalie Bubenheim, to assist her towards her contribution to the project ‘Analysis of Performance and Health Indicators in a Commercial Goat and Sheep Herd/Flock in Malawi’. 

Natalie, a final year University of Edinburgh veterinary student, has a strong interest in wildlife and livestock health in low-income regions.

During her first degree, she spent six months studying in South Africa, an experience that inspired her pursuit of veterinary medicine and a commitment to improving animal health in Southern Africa.

She is also a committee member of the Edinburgh Farm Animal Veterinary Society, and a member of the Dick Vet Wildlife and Zoological Society.  

Veterinary student Natalie Bubenheim said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the funding which has made this project possible. Without this support, I would not have been able to travel to Malawi to carry out the research on-site.

“The opportunity to collaborate directly with local students and staff, visit the farms, and understand the real-world conditions is essential to the success and impact of the project.

“This funding is not only enabling valuable research into herd health and productivity but also helping strengthen veterinary education and food security in the Lilongwe community.” 

Dr Veselina Trufcheva-Edwards MRCVS – winner of BVA Council Impact Award (Bleby Cup) 

The BVA Council Impact Award (Bleby Cup) is presented annually to the BVA Council member who has made an outstanding contribution at Council.

This year, the award goes to Veselina Trufcheva.Having qualified as a vet in 2006 from Trakia University in Bulgaria and with experience in both EU and UK practices, she has been working as a small animal vet in the UK for 13 years, most recently as a senior vet in a West London small animal practice.

She was first elected for BVA Council as the representative for London in February 2023 and has since contributed actively to debates, representing the views of West London vets within Council discussions.

Veselina has also hosted many visits for BVA’s team, to give them an invaluable insight into veterinary life, and always takes the time to acknowledge hard work from everyone at BVA HQ. 

Small animal vet Veselina Trufcheva-Edwards said: “I am honoured and at the same time deeply moved to receive the John Bleby Cup.

“I am grateful to be part of an organisation that shapes the future for the veterinary profession and honoured to represent the diverse voices of our London region.

“Working with likeminded and passionate individuals, channelling all BVA tools to support others and representing members at council meetings to shape new policy, has been an empowering experience, both personally and professionally.” 

Outgoing British Veterinary Association President Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “It is such a pleasure to be able to highlight the achievements and dedication of exceptional members of the veterinary profession and these prestigious awards go to worthy winners.

“BVA trustees were really impressed with Natalie’s application and exciting choice of project – they especially liked the fact it combines building her skills, benefits to animal welfare and sharing her knowledge with local students. This is a really special project and we know Natalie has a bright future ahead of her.

“Veselina’s dedication to the BVA Council and her efforts to always represent the voices of those in her region demonstrate her passion and dedication.

“We have also always noticed how she always takes the time to thank people for their own hard work. In a challenging profession, the simple kindness of a few words of thanks goes a long way.”

Hot summer sparks blue-green algae warning from vets

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners in Scotland to take precautions when walking dogs near freshwater bodies this summer, as the warm weather brings with it an increased risk of toxic blue-green algae growth.

The warning comes after several recent reports of algal bloom sightings in lakes, ponds of rivers in Scotland and the rest of the UK, including the Lake District, Greater Manchester and parts of Wales and Northern Ireland.

Confirmed sightings are identified by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology’s (UKCEH) Bloomin’ Algae app, which encourages people to submit details and photos if they suspect they have spotted it.

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins which can be harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds if ingested even in small quantities.

The algae may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water like lakes and ponds. Dogs can swallow it by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim.

It’s also possible for dogs to come into contact with it even if they don’t go for a paddle, as toxic blooms may be blown to the edges of water bodies.

British Veterinary Association Junior Vice President Dr Rob Williams said: “Lots of dogs love water and won’t hesitate to dive straight in when they see a lake or go for a paddle in a pond. But toxic blue-green algae is very difficult to identify and, if ingested, can make dogs seriously ill and can even be fatal.

“We’re urging pet owners to keep their dogs on leads near water bodies where blue-green algae has been confirmed or, if unsure if a water body is safe, to keep them away from it completely as it is not worth the risk.

“With no known antidote for the toxins, prompt treatment is critical to help give affected pets a chance of recovery. Symptoms can appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure, and commonly include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces. If you have any concerns or are worried your pet may have had contact with blue-green algae, speak to your vet as soon as you can.”

Top tips for pet owners

  • Look out for any warning signs near water bodies.
  • Keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have a blue-green algal bloom – don’t let pets swim in it or drink from it.
  • If your dog has been swimming outside, wash its coat thoroughly with clean water afterwards.
  • Seek emergency veterinary treatment if you’re concerned your pet may have ingested toxic algae.
  • Report sightings of suspected blue-green algae with a photograph via the Bloomin’ Algae app. You can also set up notifications for confirmed sightings in your area.
  • There are other ways to help your dog keep cool in the warmer weather: paddling pools can give them somewhere to cool off and you should always make sure they have access to clean water and shade if outdoors.

Vets issue urgent heatstroke advice for pet owners as temperatures soar

With hot weather conditions in Scotland this week, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe and to act quickly if they spot early signs of heatstroke. 

Each year, vets across the country report seeing large numbers of cases involving pets who require treatment for heat-related conditions such as heatstroke, burnt paw pads, sunburn and breathing difficulties, some of which can sadly be fatal. 

Dogs may particularly struggle to stay cool in high temperatures and humid conditions since, unlike humans, they are unable to cool down quickly through sweating, making them vulnerable to overheating.

Even a very short walk in the middle of the day or being locked in a car for a few minutes can prove to be fatal. Flat-faced breeds such as English or French bulldogs and pugs are at even greater risk, as their short muzzles can make breathing difficult, and therefore they struggle to cool down through panting, which is a dog’s main way to cool its body temperature. Overweight animals and densely coated animals are also at increased risk. 

Like dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs cannot sweat or pant to regulate their body temperature and cool down, which is why it’s important that their hutch or run isn’t exposed to direct sunlight at any time of the day.  

 British Veterinary Association President Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “Each summer, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn.

“Unfortunately, these can often be fatal. With heat warnings in place, make sure your animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times.

“When it comes to walking or exercising dogs, don’t take them out during the heat of the day- stick to early morning or late evening walks- and never leave them inside a car, caravan or conservatory even for a little while. If you’re concerned about your pet’s health, contact a vet as quickly as possible as heat-related illnesses can be fatal. 

“It’s important to recognise early signs of heatstroke as quick action could save your pets’ lives. In dogs, signs include heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and lack of coordination.

“Signs of heatstroke in rabbits include drooling, salivating, lethargy, short and shallow breaths, red and warm ears, wet nose and seizures.

“If you suspect heatstroke, take your pet to a cool, well-ventilated place, give it small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water to drink if possible, and pour room-temperature water over it to cool it down, before contacting your vet.” 

BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey during 2022’s record-breaking heatwave revealed that half (51%) of all vets in the UK saw cases of animals requiring treatment for heat-related illness. Dogs were the most common animal seen with heat-related conditions reported by 51% of small animal vets, followed by rabbits (9%) and cats (6%). 

BVA has shared the following top tips to keep pets safe in this heat: 

  • Make sure all pets always have access to fresh water to drink, adequate ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times. Provide them with a cool mat and fan and keep frozen water bottles covered in towels in their living space. For rabbits and guinea pigs, you can provide extra shade by covering the top of wire mesh runs with damp towels. Lightly misting rabbits’ ears with cold water is also an effective way to help cool them, as long as this doesn’t stress them. 
  • Don’t exercise dogs in the hottest parts of the day: especially older dogs, overweight dogs, flat-faced breeds or dogs that you know have heart or lung problems. Stick to early morning or late evening walks. 
  • Do the five-second tarmac test before taking a dog out for a walk- put your palm flat on the tarmac for five seconds, and if it feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. 
  • Never leave dogs in vehicles. If you see a dog in distress inside a hot car, call 999. 
  • Watch out for early signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and lack of coordination. Signs of heatstroke in rabbits include drooling, salivating, lethargy, short and shallow breaths, red and warm ears, wet nose and seizures. 
  • If heatstroke or any other heat-related condition is suspected, take your pets to a cool, well-ventilated place, give it small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water to drink, and pour room-temperature water over it to cool it down. Seek immediate advice from your vet. 
  • Spare a thought for wild animals. Keep out shallow bowls of water for wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs.

1 in 3 Scotland vets report seeing illegally imported puppies last year

BVA CALLS ON GOVERNMENT TO ACT

More than 30 percent (around 1 in 3) small animal vets in Scotland saw puppies they believe to have been imported illegally into the country in the last year, according to the British Veterinary Association (BVA).

With increased concerns around the risk to public health from imported diseases such as rabies, BVA calls on the UK Government to urgently put a stop to unlawful puppy smuggling by progressing the Animal Welfare (Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill through Parliament and into law without any further delay.  

The call comes on the heels of a roundtable in Parliament, hosted by vet and MP Danny Chambers to highlight the potential impact of this legislation, which would introduce crucial measures to clamp down on puppy smuggling, ban the import of pets with illegal mutilations like cropped ears, and secure public health by preventing diseases such as rabies from being imported into the country.   

The Bill, which passed its second reading in the Commons in November, has been awaiting a date for the committee stage since then.  

Data from BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey revealed that French bulldog puppies were by far the most common breed vets across the UK reported concerns about, with just under half (48%) of vets who had seen suspicious puppies referring to this breed. 

The biggest source of suspicion that these dogs may have been imported illegally was the client’s explanation of how or where the puppy was acquired (79% of vets said this). Half of vets who had seen illegal pups (52%) suspected they had been imported illegally because the puppies were too young to have been imported but they had been told they came from abroad.

A third of vets (33%) had suspicions because they found foreign microchips in puppies that were too young to have been imported legally, and a similar proportion (30%) had seen puppies whose age didn’t match the information on the passport.  

British Veterinary Association President Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “These new figures from our members who work in small animal practice show that puppy smugglers are continuing to use unscrupulous methods to bring puppies into the country and duping new owners into buying sick or poorly socialised pets.  

“Illegally imported puppies have often been poorly bred, without the correct vaccinations or necessary health checks needed, which can result in life-threatening illnesses for the pups and heartache for their new owners. 

“In the last few years, we have seen measures to stop puppy smuggling come close to becoming law but disappointingly failing to cross the line. We’re urging Government to progress vet and MP Danny Chambers’ Bill, which has broad support from vets, animal welfare charities, parliamentarians and the general public, into law in this parliamentary session.” 

BVA is calling on the public and its members to write to their local MP, urging them to support the Bill at every opportunity.  

The template letter and more information about BVA’s campaign against puppy smuggling is available at: https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/pet-imports/  

Licensing canine fertility services

New plans to improve animal welfare

Proposals to introduce a strict licensing framework for canine fertility businesses have been announced.

The planned licensing scheme will clamp down on unethical breeding practices, regulate the services offered, ensure higher standards of care and protect animal welfare.

Businesses offering canine fertility services will be licensed annually, and subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with licensing conditions.

The proposals are a response to concerns raised by those in the veterinary profession and key animal welfare organisations regarding the unregulated nature of businesses offering canine fertility services.

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “It is clear to me that there are significant concerns about the activities of canine fertility businesses. It is unacceptable that these businesses can operate with little in the way of regulatory oversight or accountability.

“Our decision follows careful consideration of the views expressed following public consultation last year, as well as extensive discussions with those in the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and local authorities.

“Our intention to bring in these measures demonstrates that we remain firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare in Scotland.”

Scottish SPCA Director of Innovation and Strategic Relations Gilly Mendes Ferreira says: “We have seen a surge in the establishment of canine fertility businesses in recent years, especially involving high value breeds like French Bulldogs who often struggle to give birth naturally.

“We welcome the Scottish Government’s responsiveness to our concerns and support the move to license these businesses. It will be imperative that licensing inspections are conducted by registered, experienced veterinary surgeons.

“We look forward to collaborating closely on the details of the new framework for licensing these establishments in Scotland.”

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed proposals announced today (16 August) by the Scottish Government to crack down on unregulated canine fertility clinics and unethical dog breeding practices in Scotland, following a sustained nationwide campaign by vets and animal welfare organisations.

Under the planned scheme, any businesses offering dog fertility services will need to get an annual licence and be subject to regular inspections.

The announcement follows recommendations published by BVA and BSAVA earlier this year, which included the licensing of establishments offering canine breeding services, a strengthening of enforcement of existing animal welfare regulation, and the closure of the legal loopholes that are allowing unregulated breeding practices to flourish.

Responding to the Scottish Government announcement, BVA President Dr. Anna Judson said: “The British Veterinary Association is pleased to see the Scottish Government act on the veterinary profession’s recommendations and take the lead in clamping down on unregulated canine fertility clinics.

“Vets across the UK have raised concerns over the growth in facilities offering dog breeding services without any qualifications or veterinary oversight over the last few years, fuelling a potential animal welfare disaster.

““Licensing is a hugely important first step in this crackdown. Any dog breeding facility must also have a named RCVS-registered vet in place, with requirements for active veterinary involvement and oversight at the facility at all times.

“Of course, licensing can only be successful if it is accompanied by mandatory inspections, sufficient funding for local authorities, and tough penalties for anyone found to be operating outside the law. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government in the development of a robust licensing framework.

“We are now calling on governments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow suit and act swiftly to address this pressing issue of dog welfare and breeding.”

Recommendations from BVA and BSAVA’s joint policy position on canine breeding services, published in January this year, can be seen at:

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/canine-breeding-services/

CMA takes next procedural step in vet services investigation

The Inquiry Group – made up of independent experts who will lead the market investigation – has set out its areas of focus

Following the launch of its market investigation into the vets sector, and in line with our usual market investigation procedures, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today published an issues statement which sets out the Inquiry Group’s initial theories on what might be affecting competition in the sector and the potential solutions or ‘remedies’ that could be considered.

These reflect the concerns and potential remedies set out during the CMA’s market review. The issues statement covers the types of further evidence the Group plans to collect in order to test these theories and explore any remedies needed.

The issues statement does not set out any findings or conclusions at this early stage of the investigation – it is for the Group to determine whether there are competition concerns in the market and how best to address them.

In determining its initial areas of focus, the Group – chaired by Martin Coleman – has considered all the work carried out so far, including evidence gathered during the market review and responses to the consultation on whether to launch a market investigation.

The Group will gather a wide range of evidence including information from veterinary professionals and businesses of all sizes, suppliers to those businesses, regulators and pet owners. The Group plans to hold hearings and roundtables, visit veterinary practices and referral hospitals to understand the vet sector more fully, and publish working papers to share its emerging thinking at certain points in the investigation.

At this early stage in the investigation, publishing this issues statement will assist those submitting evidence to focus on the issues the Group is most concerned about. As the investigation progresses, further issues may be identified.

The CMA must generally conclude a market investigation within 18 months from the date that the reference is made (with a potential additional 6 months for putting remedies in place) and the final report is expected by November 2025 at the latest.

The consultation on this issues statement is open until midnight on 30 July 2024 and responses should be sent to vetsMI@cma.gov.uk. The Group will consider the views it receives as part of its ongoing investigation. 

For more information, including the full administrative timetable and members of the Inquiry Group, visit the Vets case page. This page includes a video to Martin Coleman, Chair of the Inquiry Group and a member of the case team, answering questions about the investigation.

The Investigation timeline so far:

  • The CMA launched a market review on 7 September 2023.
  • A consultation on the proposal to launch a market investigation reference opened on 12 March 2024.
  • On 23 May 2024, the CMA, in exercise of its powers under sections 131 and 133 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (the Act), launched a full market investigation in relation to the supply of veterinary services for household pets in the United Kingdom.