Concerns About Advice On The Forum

[karonus]

WARNING THIS IS A LONG BUT IMPORTANT POST

As part of the TEAS application for full charity status I have had to look into the work that is done and ensure that all that we do complies with the Law. This includes the prescribing of medicine etc. The result has been some concern over the way advice may have been presented in the past to newbies especially advising what medicines and doses to apply (this is illegal unless its done by a qualified vet and then can only be done following an examination of the animal).

The following links show the restrictions placed on non-qualified people and the use of medicines. What is interesting is that the restrictions placed on Anesthesia free dental procedures is only specifically applicable to Cats and Dogs.

The RCVS Guidelines have recently been amended as shown.

4. Veterinary medicines - RCVS

19. Treatment of animals by unqualified persons - RCVS

 

[karonus]

Under Schedule 3 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 as amended 22 February 2016 the only thing we as lay people an do and remain within the law to our pets is

Any minor medical treatment given to an animal by its owner, by another member of the household of which the owner is a member or by a person in the employment of the owner.

The rendering in an emergency of first aid for the purpose of saving life or relieving pain or suffering.