Shared responsibilities

What to expect from your vet team

Your vet team must follow the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct. This means you can expect them to:

• Put your pet's health and welfare first in all decisions
• Provide 24-hour emergency first aid and pain relief, either at their practice or through arrangements with other vets
• Prescribe, supply and administer medicines responsibly, and only when they have sufficient information to do so
• Ensure only veterinary surgeons prescribe veterinary medicines
• Be clear about treatment costs upfront and seek consent for any treatments or procedures
• Keep your pet's medical information confidential, unless animal welfare or the public interest may be compromised, or you give them permission to share
• Explain treatment options in plain, clear language 

These standards aren't just professional guidelines - they're requirements that protect you and your pet.

Your responsibilities as a pet owner

Under UK animal health and welfare legislation, you are legally required to take positive steps to protect your pet from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

In addition, you should:

• Act promptly if you have any concerns about your pet’s health - when in doubt, contact your veterinary practice for advice
• Follow the advice given by your veterinary team and ask for more information if you need it
• Be open and transparent so your vet team can provide your pet with the best care
• Give medicine as directed, for as long as directed
• Familiarise yourself with your practice’s out-of-hours arrangements and plan how you would transport your pet in an emergency
• Ensure you have the means to pay for the medical care of your animal promptly, including through insurance or charitable support*
• Register all your pets with appropriate veterinary practices

* If you’re concerned about costs, talk to your vet team. They should be able to advise you on payment plans, cheaper medication options, pet insurance, or local charities that can help with veterinary bills.

Taking these positive steps will help create the partnership your pet needs for a healthy, happy life.