Biggest veterinary reforms in 60 years promise cheaper fees and new ombudsman
Government unveils plans to modernise the veterinary sector with greater transparency and accountability.
Millions of pet owners are set to benefit from the biggest overhaul of veterinary regulation in six decades.
The government today (Thursday 9 July 2026) publishes its White Paper aiming to modernise the sector and provide pet owners with better protections and more transparent pricing.
Among the key measures are requirements for vet practices to publish price lists for common treatments and a £21 cap on written prescription fees.
An independent veterinary ombudsman is being considered to help resolve disputes more quickly and fairly between pet owners and practices.
The proposed reforms include mandatory licensing and inspections for vet businesses, increased transparency around practice ownership, and the introduction of a 'Find a Vet' comparison service to help pet owners make informed decisions about their care.
Emma Reynolds, Secretary of State for Defra, expressed optimism about these changes:
"Pets are part of the family, but for too many households the cost of caring for them has become a real worry. These reforms will help owners avoid unexpected bills, compare prices more easily and get the best value care for their pets. We're modernising a system that hasn’t been updated for sixty years, putting pet owners first while giving vets the modern framework they need to support the future of the profession.”
These reforms respond to concerns raised by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) regarding transparency and competition within the veterinary sector.
The CMA's findings have highlighted the need for clearer regulations, which are now part of the government's proposal.
Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, supported the initiative:
“We back the government’s proposals, which include our recommendations on regulating the sector. For the first time, these proposals would ensure that vet businesses are accountable to an independent regulator, while offering consumers more protection and a fairer deal.”
The White Paper follows extensive public consultation, incorporating feedback from thousands of respondents across the public and veterinary sector.
The plans also aim to enhance the regulatory framework for veterinary nurses and allied professionals to improve job satisfaction and retention rates while ensuring higher standards of care.