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FIVP voices vets’ concerns at London Vet Show 2025
FIVP has expressed growing concern among the veterinary sector.

Many vets fear the CMA's provisional remedies will have unintended consequences.

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has expressed increasing concern within the veterinary sector, following conversations with independent practice owners at the London Vet Show (20-21 November).

The not-for-profit organisation, which represents independent practices across the UK, reports that many veterinary professionals believe the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) provisional remedies will have significant unintended consequences.

According to an FIVP survey, the measures - which aim to improve transparency and competition - will, in reality, increase costs for both practices and clients, and have a potential negative impact on animal welfare. Many attendees shared that the administrative and financial pressures created by the proposed regulations are placing additional strain on already stretched independent practices.

The organisation warns that, rather than making veterinary care more affordable, the current approach may result in rising fees for essential treatments, as practices struggle to absorb increasing operational costs. This could ultimately limit access to care and compromise animal welfare.

FIVP also notes that while the CMA investigation was initiated due to concerns over consolidation in the market, the remedies may in fact accelerate further consolidation - potentially reducing choice for clients and impacting the sustainability of independent practices.

Rita Dingwall, chair of FIVP, said: “Veterinary professionals are committed to delivering the highest standards of care, but the current proposals risk undermining that commitment. Without a more balanced and collaborative approach, the burden on independent practices will grow, and the quality and accessibility of veterinary care may suffer.

"We urge the CMA to recognise these wider impacts and work with the profession to find solutions that protect both animal welfare and practice sustainability.”

FIVP’s response can be read here. You can also read its Impact Assessment results here.

Image © Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock.com

 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.