RCVS to launch awareness campaign for out-of-hours care

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is launching a new campaign to provide the public with a clearer view of what to expect from out-of-hours care.

A communications project focusing on pet owner-oriented publications and websites is being commenced to remind the public of which services are on offer, as well as highlighting the limitations involved in emergency care.

This is being initiated to raise awareness of the fact that European Working Time Regulations have complicated the process of offering around-the-clock animal healthcare, while such emergency services also involve the payment of higher fees.

Jerry Davies, chair of the RCVS 24/7 Working Party, stated that it is therefore important that animal owners are made aware of and ready to cope with the delays that may be involved in out-of-hours care.

He said: “This simple step will help optimise response times and eliminate the frustration, confusion and inevitable dissatisfaction that may arise if ill-prepared.”

Earlier this week, the organisation’s Awarding Body was granted official accreditation under the Qualifications and Credit Framework, meaning it can now offer veterinary nursing vocational qualifications.