04/12/2023
New Guidelines from the RCVS
The Royal College Of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is the regulatory body for the veterinary profession in the UK.
As of September 1st 2023 the rules of the "Under Care Guidance" have changed and all veterinary professionals and practices have to adhere to these. These guidelines will be reviewed after a year.
The main changes affect the way prescription only medications (POM-Vs) are prescribed and dispensed to the animal owners (clients).
In summary this is how these guidelines are going to affect you:
Small animals (dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs):
No antibiotics can be prescribed if a physical examniation has not taken place beforehand. This includes antibiotics in any shape or form (tablets, capsules, injections, oral liquids or cremes). Even if the issue has occured before e.g. repeating diarrhea, the patient has to be seen and examined by the vet first!
Please note that a telephone conversation or a video is not classified as a physical examination!
For repeat prescriptions other than antibiotics or antiparasiticals (e.g. Loxicom or Metacam), the animal has to be seen for a physical examination at least every 6 months (for repeat heart medication, seizure treatment and some other conditions even every 3 months).
The rules for the dispensing of vet prescription only (POM-V) antiparasiticals, e.g. Flea- and tick treatment say that the animal has to undergo a physical examination at least every 12 months. If your animal visits the practice once a year for the annual vaccine/booster, this is sufficient, as a clinical examination is performed at the same time. It is also important that your animal is weighed here, so that the accurate strength and size of any product can be prescribed.
Horses and Donkeys:
Please note that the same rules regarding antibiotics, repeat presciptions and antiparasiticals apply for all equines. A physical examination is compulsory before any antibiotic dispension and every 6 months for repeat prescriptions. Antiparasiticals can only be sold for animals under our care.
Farm Animals:
We have to visit every herd and flock at least once a year. In some cases we need to perform a physical examination before prescribing antibiotics.
Please note:
This practice policy is based on the changes to the "Under Care" Guidance decided by the RCVS. It is compulsory for us as a veterinay practice to obey these rules. We understand that any change can cause uncertainty and frustration. However- We do not tolarate any abusive behaviour towards our staff!
Please ask us if you need any clarification on the new "Under Care" Guidance.
