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The Consult RoomAuthor: The Consult Room
The Consult Room is the podcast that explores the evolving world of modern pet care. Hosted by vet surgeon Dr Paul Manktelow, each episode dives into the key issues shaping the lives of pets and the people who love them. Whether you're looking for deeper insight into modern veterinary healthcare, curious about the pet care industry, or simply passionate about animal welfare, The Consult Room brings clarity, compassion, and real-world expertise to the conversation. Visit www.theconsultroom.co.uk or get in touch at hello@theconsultroom.co.uk. Language: en Genres: Kids & Family, Pets & Animals Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Why the Veterinary Surgeons Act Is Being Reformed - And What It Means for Pet Care
Monday, 16 February, 2026
In this episode of The Consult Room, I explore something that sounds technical - but actually affects every single pet guardian in the UK: the government’s decision to reform the Veterinary Surgeons Act.This is the 1966 law that regulates veterinary surgeons and shapes how veterinary care is delivered behind the scenes. But veterinary medicine has changed dramatically in the past 60 years - from the James Herriot era of kitchen table stitching to advanced imaging, complex surgery, and multidisciplinary teams.Following the CMA investigation into the veterinary sector, DEFRA has launched a public consultation to modernise this legislation. But what is actually being proposed? What could change? And just as importantly…what won’t?I share my perspective as a vet working in both clinical and charity settings, including why I believe the role of veterinary nurses deserves greater recognition, why regulation needs to reflect team-based care, and why reform is not a silver bullet for affordability.This episode is about clarity, context and balance, not headlines.In This Episode:What the Veterinary Surgeons Act actually doesWhy 1966 legislation no longer reflects modern veterinary practiceThe impact of the CMA investigationWhy veterinary businesses currently aren’t regulated as entitiesThe role and recognition of veterinary nursesWhat reform could realistically improveWhat reform will not fixKey Takeaways:Veterinary medicine has evolved far beyond what the 1966 Act envisagedThe consultation is about modernisation, not blameReform may improve transparency and efficiency - but won’t magically reduce costsRecognising the wider veterinary team could improve sustainabilityGood reform requires scrutiny and realistic expectationsResources and More Info:🌐 DEFRA Consultation: Reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 🌐 RCVS Position on Reform 🐾 Follow @DrPaulTheVet for ongoing updates and discussion🎙️ Enjoyed the episode? Follow and review The Consult Room wherever you listen.
