When caring for our dogs, we all want to do what’s best for them. Whether dealing with an injury, managing a long-term condition, or simply keeping them in top health, the right advice and treatment are essential. However, under UK law, there are strict regulations about who can provide veterinary care, diagnosis, and treatment.
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and the Exemptions Order 2015 outline who can legally provide medical advice and treatment for animals. While many professionals and experienced individuals in the pet care industry can offer general guidance, only qualified veterinary surgeons are legally permitted to diagnose conditions and prescribe treatment. This blog explores what this means for dog owners and professionals working with dogs.
What Is the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966?
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 was introduced to regulate the veterinary profession in the UK. The Act ensures that only adequately trained and qualified individuals can undergo veterinary surgery. This protects animal welfare by preventing unqualified people from diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medication, or performing medical procedures.
Under the Act, only registered veterinary surgeons can legally:
- Diagnose medical conditions in animals
- Provide medical advice relating to a diagnosis
- Prescribe medication
- Perform surgical or medical procedures
Anyone who carries out these activities without being a qualified vet is breaking the law. The Act is designed to safeguard animal welfare and ensure that pets receive the best care from those with the appropriate training and expertise.
What Is the Exemptions Order 2015?
The Veterinary Surgeons (Exemptions) Order 2015 allows specific treatments and therapies to be carried out by non-veterinarians, provided they do not involve diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, or performing invasive procedures.
This means that canine physiotherapists, hydrotherapists, massage therapists, behaviourists, trainers, and other professionals can work with dogs, but they must do so within legal boundaries. While they may have extensive knowledge and experience, they cannot:
- Diagnose medical conditions
- Prescribe or administer medication
- Perform surgery or invasive treatments
However, they can provide complementary therapies, such as physiotherapy and massage, but typically only after a vet has approved them. Professionals like physiotherapists and hydrotherapists often require a veterinary referral before starting treatment.
The Difference Between Advice and Experience
Many professionals and experienced dog owners have a wealth of knowledge about canine health, behaviour, and general care. However, a legal distinction exists between sharing experience and giving veterinary advice.
What Professionals Can Do:
- Share general knowledge and experience about dog care
- Offer guidance based on their training and expertise
- Provide non-invasive treatments, such as hydrotherapy or physiotherapy, if a vet has approved them
- Support owners in managing conditions alongside veterinary care
What They Cannot Do:
- Diagnose a dog’s medical condition
- Prescribe medication or suggest medical treatments
- Advise owners to stop or change prescribed veterinary treatments
For example, a canine massage therapist may notice a dog moving stiffly and suggest the owner speak to their vet. They can share information about how massage may help with mobility, but they cannot diagnose arthritis or recommend specific medications—that a vet must do.
Similarly, an experienced dog walker or trainer might recognise signs of pain or discomfort in a dog’s movement but should always advise the owner to seek veterinary advice rather than making assumptions about the cause.
Why This Law Is Important
The restrictions set by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 protect dogs and ensure they receive the best possible care. Veterinary professionals undergo rigorous training to develop the skills to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
Unqualified individuals could put dogs at risk by giving medical advice or performing treatments. Misdiagnosing an illness or suggesting the wrong treatment could lead to unnecessary suffering or worsening health problems.
For example:
- A dog displaying lameness could have anything from a minor strain to a severe joint condition. Only a vet can determine the exact cause.
- A dog with skin irritation might have an allergy, a parasite infestation, or an underlying medical issue. Treating the wrong cause could make the problem worse.
- If a dog is in pain, giving the wrong type of pain relief (or using human medication) could be dangerous, even fatal.
The Role of Owners in Seeking the Right Advice
Knowing where to turn for reliable advice is essential for a dog owner. While experienced professionals can offer guidance based on their expertise, a vet should always address medical concerns first.
If you’re unsure whether a piece of advice is appropriate, ask yourself:
- Has a vet confirmed the diagnosis?
- Is this person qualified to provide medical advice or treatment?
- Are they recommending that I speak to a vet before taking action?
If in doubt, always seek a veterinary opinion before deciding about your dog’s health.
Conclusion
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 & Exemptions Order 2015 clearly define who can and cannot provide veterinary advice and treatment. While many professionals working with dogs have valuable experience, only vets can legally diagnose and prescribe treatment.
Dog walkers, trainers, hydrotherapists, and massage therapists can support a dog’s health and well-being, but they must work within the law and never replace veterinary advice. If you have concerns about your dog’s health, consult a qualified vet first.
Understanding and respecting these legal guidelines ensures that all dogs receive the safe, professional care they deserve.