Treatment and care

The professional standards you can expect

All RCVS-registered vets must follow five guiding principles:

• Professional competence - your vet should have the right skills and knowledge
• Honesty and integrity - you should receive truthful, straightforward information
• Independence and impartiality - treatment recommendations should be based on your pet's needs
• Client confidentiality and trust - your information stays private
• Professional accountability - vets take responsibility for their decisions and actions

These principles ensure your pet's welfare comes first in every decision. We expect vets to communicate openly and involve you in treatment choices.

Making the most of your appointment

Visiting the vet can be stressful for both pets and owners. Here are some tips for making the most of your appointment:  

• Bring a list of any medication your pet is taking
• Describe changes in your pet's behaviour or appetite
• Ask your vet to explain anything you don't understand
• Take notes or bring someone with you to help remember important information
• Be honest about what you can manage at home

Remember that your vet wants to help your pet, and clear communication makes this easier for everyone.

Understanding treatment options

Your vet should explain different ways to treat your pet's condition where possible. This helps you understand the choices available and what might work best in your situation.

You might find it helpful to:

• Ask for written summaries of the main treatment options
• Request information about success rates for different treatments
• Understand the timeline for each option
• Learn what each treatment involves for you and your pet

Your vet should welcome questions and explain treatment options in clear, understandable terms.

What informed consent means

Before any treatment starts, your vet should ensure you understand and agree to what they're proposing. This is called informed consent, and it protects both you and your pet.

Your vet should explain:

• What the treatment involves
• Why it’s recommended
• What the likely outcomes are
• Any risks or side-effects
• What happens if the condition isn’t treated
• How much the treatment will cost
• What follow-up care your pet may need

You have the right to ask for time to think about your decision, especially for non-emergency treatments. You can also bring someone with you to appointments for support.

Good communication is essential for proper consent. Your vet should check that you understand the information they've given you and answer any questions you have.

For complex or risky procedures, your vet may ask you to sign a consent form. This helps ensure you've received all the important information about the treatment.

Making treatment decisions

You know your pet best, and your circumstances matter when choosing treatment. Your vet should work with you to find the right approach for your situation.

Consider discussing:

• Your pet's age and overall health
• How the treatment fits with your pet's lifestyle
• Your ability to provide follow-up care
• What you can manage financially

Your vet should respect your decisions, even if they differ from their recommendations. They should also be honest about what they can and cannot do. 

Understanding costs and planning

Your vet should clearly explain treatment costs before starting any procedure. This helps you plan and make informed decisions about your pet's care.

You could also:

• Ask for written estimates for expensive treatments
• Check what your pet insurance covers
• Discuss payment options with your vet if needed
• Ask about less expensive alternatives if cost is a concern

Vets should consider your financial circumstances when discussing treatment options and be upfront about costs, working with you to find suitable solutions.

When your pet needs inpatient care  

If your pet needs to stay at the veterinary practice or at a specialist veterinary hospital, you should receive clear information about what this involves.

Your vet should explain:

• Why inpatient care is necessary
• How long your pet is likely to stay
• What care your pet will receive
• Visiting arrangements and updates
• What the daily costs will be

While your pet is in hospital or at the practice overnight, the veterinary team should monitor their condition and keep you informed about their progress. You should receive regular updates, especially if your pet's condition changes or if they need additional treatment.

Second opinions

You have the right to seek a second opinion about your pet's condition and treatment. This means consulting another vet while keeping your current vet as your pet's main care provider. Getting a second opinion can be particularly helpful for complex conditions or major procedures.

Your current vet should:

• Respect your decision to seek a second opinion
• Provide medical records when requested
• Continue caring for your pet if needed
• Work professionally with other vets

Referrals

Sometimes your vet might recommend referring your pet to a specialist. This happens when your pet needs expertise or equipment that your regular vet doesn't have.

Before making a referral, your vet should:

• Explain why a referral is needed  
• Describe what the specialist might offer
• Discuss likely costs  
• Obtain your agreement before arranging the referral

You can ask questions about what to expect from the referral process. Your regular vet should also explain how they'll work with the specialist to provide ongoing care.