Decision to remove vet from register clarified

After concerns from members of the profession, the RCVS has clarified its decision to remove veterinary surgeon, Munhuwepasi Chikosi, from the register.

Mr Chikosi was struck off on June 18 after a Disciplinary Committee (DC) hearing found that he caused unnecessary suffering to a 14-year-old labrador cross, by failing to attend to her for over an hour after she was run over at a farm.

The RCVS has reportedly received a number of comments on the case, and has responded to confusion and anxiety from some members of the profession by issuing a statement.

"Cases around 24-hour emergency cover do tend to spark debate," said Gordon Hockey, RCVS head of legal services and registrar.

"Nothing takes the place of reading the full decision of the DC, and I would urge veterinary surgeons with an interest in this area to take the time to do this."

Further, the college stated that the decision over Mr Chikosi is consistent with current guidance in the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.

Advice on first aid and pain relief is currently: "1.4 Veterinary surgeons in practice must take steps to provide 24-hour emergency first aid and pain relief to animals according to their skills and the specific situation."

To read the full decision of the DC, click here.