Pricing plan aims to save pet owners from shock vet bills

MILLIONS of pet owners will be able to avoid unexpected costs if vet practices are forced to publish price lists for common treatments.

- BY STEPH SPYRO Deputy Political Editor

Veterinary sector is now under close examination

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is considering the move as part of an eight-week consultation on what is being called the “biggest reforms” to the sector in more than 60 years.

Veterinary practices are facing the overhaul after the Competition and Markets Authority found that problems in the market could be costing households up to £1billion over five years.

Owners are often unaware of prices or not given estimates ahead of treatments that can run into thousands of pounds.