The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is the regulatory body for veterinary surgeons in the United Kingdom, established in 1844 by royal charter. It is responsible for monitoring the educational, ethical and clinical standards of the veterinary profession. Anyone wishing to practice as a vet in the United Kingdom must be registered with the RCVS.
Role
To safeguard the health and welfare of animals committed to veterinary care through the regulation of the educational, ethical and clinical standards of the veterinary profession, thereby protecting the interests of those dependent on animals and assuring public health.
To act as an impartial source of informed opinion on animal health and welfare issues and their interaction with human health.
Anyone who wishes to practice as a vet in the United Kingdom must first register with the RCVS. Eligibility for registration is based either on having a recognised qualification or by passing the RCVS statutory membership examination. After registration, the vet is entitled to use the letters MRCVS (Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons) or FRCVS (Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons) after their name.
During the ceremony of admission to the RCVS, members make a declaration:
I PROMISE AND SOLEMNLY DECLARE that I will pursue the work of my profession with integrity and accept my responsibilities to the public, my clients, the profession and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and that, ABOVE ALL, my constant endeavour will be to ensure the health and welfare of animals committed to my care.
Royal charter
The 1844 charter regulates particular aspects of the college's management of its affairs and gives it the power to award fellowships, diplomas and certificates to veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, and others engaged in veterinary science and its auxiliary sciences.
The Disciplinary Committee of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons hears charges against veterinary surgeons accused of serious professional misconduct or being unfit to practice because of a criminal conviction.
In order to carry out its statutory duties a council of 33 members governs the RCVS and meets eight times a year. The President, vice-presidents (two), and Treasurer are elected by Council and together with the Chief Executive and Head of Legal Services/Registrar, form a team of officers who have the main responsibility for running the RCVS.
Publications
Colours and Markings of Horses (revised 2005 and distributed by Weatherbys Bookshop)
Directory of Veterinary Practices (annual, published in October)
RCVS Annual Report (annual, published in June)
RCVS Guide to Professional Conduct (revised 2006)
RCVS News (newsletter – March/June/November)
Register of Members (annual, published in November)
Veterinary Nurses List (annual, published in March)
↑"Veterinary Oaths". University of Sydney. Retrieved 1 February 2025. I promise and solemnly declare that I will pursue the work of my profession with integrity and accept my responsibilities to the public, my clients, the profession and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and that ABOVE ALL my constant endeavour will be to ensure the health and welfare of animals committed to my care.
↑"Royal Charters and Bye-Laws". Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Retrieved 1 February 2025. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons was created by and still exists by virtue of a Royal Charter of 1844.
