You may be surprised to learn some of the limitations of the existing legislation

Does RCVS regulate vets and vet nurses?

Yes. Veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses are
regulated and each profession works to a Code of
Professional Conduct.

Does RCVS regulate veterinary practices?

No. Under the existing Veterinary Surgeons Act, there is no provision of mandatory regulation of veterinary practices by the RCVS. While approximately two thirds of veterinary practice premises in the UK volunteer to be assessed under the Practice Standards Scheme, there is no mandatory requirement for them to do so.

Our recommendation is that the RCVS should be granted statutory authority to regulate all veterinary practices.

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Is everyone providing treatment to animals regulated by the RCVS?

No.

Our recommendation is that allied professionals should be regulated and work to a mandatory Code of Professional Conduct like veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.

Can anyone call themselves a Veterinary Nurse?

Yes. There is currently no protection of title for Veterinary Nurses.

We recommend that statutory protection must be given to the professional titles of veterinary nurses as well as other allied professionals including veterinary technicians, equine dental technicians, physiotherapists and hydrotherapists.

Do all Royal Colleges also regulate their professions?

No. The RCVS is in a unique position in that we are a ‘Royal College that regulates’, which allows us to take an holistic approach to public assurance.

We recommend retaining this function which will ensure that our Royal College functions are properly funded, allowing us to pursue some Charter-based activities carried out as part of the proactive and supportive approach to regulation such as initiatives in the area of mental health and leadership.