In this blog, BVNA Council Member Victoria Shaw highlights why it is so important that, alongside the veterinary profession, the public should also be part of the push towards legislative reform of the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.

UK Government and Defra have recently opened a consultation on proposed reform, which is only open for a few more days – closing on Wednesday 25th March 2026. We would urge ALL veterinary professionals, plus members of the public who make use of veterinary services, to contribute their views to this consultation. This can be accessed directly here; https://consult.defra.gov.uk/reform-of-the-veterinary-surgeons-act/consultation/

“As a Registered Veterinary Nurse with over 20 years’ experience, I have seen how much the veterinary profession has changed. Yet in that time, the law that governs our profession has not changed with it, in fact the Veterinary Surgeons Act (VSA) is 60 years old! We have a once in a generation chance to modernise the VSA. This is important, it isn’t just a technical policy update. It affects every animal, owner, member of the public and every member of the veterinary team.

“So why does it matter I hear you say? Well, I will tell you…

“By modernising the outdated system, it protects animals. In 1966 when the VSA was last updated, veterinary medicine didn’t have the benefit of the modern advanced diagnostics, surgical techniques and anaesthesia it has today, and nursing care simply did not exist. By updating the Act, it means clearer accountability, safer delegation and better oversight of everyone involved in animal care.

“Put simply, when the law reflects modern practice the treatment animals receive is safer and more consistent.

“Did you know anyone can call themselves a veterinary nurse? That’s right anyone, even people without training! The title ‘veterinary nurse’ is currently unprotected. This means the person carrying out procedures on your pet may not be fully trained, qualified and regulated.

“Legislative reform seeks to legally protect the title of ‘veterinary nurse’, ensuring that only those that have spent years in formal training and that are fully regulated and accountable may use the title. This change will give you the peace of mind that your animal is being treated by a trained professional, and give recognition to those individuals that have spent years becoming qualified.

“How will it benefit the veterinary team? We know that the veterinary industry is under tremendous pressure and those in the industry understand just how hard recruitment and retention is. Modernising regulation could support new roles and pathways, and allow better use of the whole veterinary team including allied veterinary professionals such as behaviourists and physiotherapists. Thus, aiding practices to deliver care more efficiently. This in turn creates a stronger, more defined workforce meaning improved animal welfare, and better support for vets and veterinary nurses.

“The consultation seeks to improve transparency for you as the owner, ensuring that you know who is treating your animal, what qualifications they hold, and how to raise concerns should you feel anything has gone wrong. Changes to the regulation process will also make it easier and more clear for professionals to ensure they are fit to practice and how they can return to work following a break, this will also mean clearer standards for businesses and individuals – again, benefitting you as owners and increasing animal welfare by improving consistency.

“Finally, benefits to the wider public will be seen through ensuring consistent standards across all providers.

“So, whether you are a veterinary professional, a pet owner or someone who cares about animal welfare, your response will help to shape the future of veterinary care in the UK.

“Responding to the consultation is our chance to modernise the VSA, and in doing so protect animals, increase animal welfare, supports veterinary professionals and strengthen public trust.

“As a veterinary nurse and animal lover, I am asking you to take part – not for me, but for the animals and people we care so passionately about.”

Find out more about how BVNA is ensuring your voice is heard in VSA reform; https://bvna.org.uk/project/veterinary-surgeons-act-reform/