Advisory note - Treatment of animals

Appendix item One

The Law

The law in regard to animal treatment is substantially more restrictive than for the treatment of human patients. The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1996 prohibits anyone who is not a registered veterinary surgeon from practising veterinary surgery. ‘Veterinary Surgery’ is defined as including the diagnosis of the injuries and ailments of animals, tests performed on animals for diagnostic purposes, advice based upon that diagnosis and treatment.

RCVS’ Position

Nevertheless the RCVS recognises as acceptable in terms of Act, the complementary treatment of animals by contact healing, by the laying on of hands, by radionic instrument and distant healing by thought transference or prayer in strict accordance with the provisions and spirit of this Code of Conduct.

Action of Healers

a) Before treating an animal the healer must seek assurance from the owner that the animal has been examined by a veterinary surgeon. The veterinary surgeon remains in charge of the case and the healer shall not countermand any instructions or medicines given by the veterinary surgeon. Similarly, the healer shall neither suggest a medical diagnosis nor advise any course of veterinary treatment.

b) In the event that the animal has not been seen by a veterinary surgeon, before healing is given, the owner must be advised to seek veterinary attention. For healing to be given in the knowledge that veterinary advice has not been sought is contrary to the provisions of this Code and is capable of leading to prosecution under the Veterinary Surgeons Acts. (The Protection of Animals Act 1911 also imposes an obligation on anyone aware that an animal is clearly in need of veterinary treatment to advise the owner to obtain this).

c) The administration of first aid in an emergency, for the purpose of saving life or relieving pain, is permissible (Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 Schedule 3).

d) No breach of the Animals (Scientific procedures) Act 1986 is permitted.