PDSA welcomes CMA outcome protecting vital charitable veterinary care

22 September 2026

PDSA, the UK’s leading veterinary charity, has welcomed the Competition and Markets Authority’s final outcome following its review of the UK veterinary market, particularly the recognition of the unique role of charitable veterinary services.

PDSA Chief Veterinary Advisor, Steve Howard, said: "We welcome the CMA’s final outcome and are pleased that our concerns about the potential impact of the proposed measures on charitable veterinary services have been recognised.

"PDSA has been clear throughout this process that measures designed to improve transparency and choice in the commercial veterinary market must not inadvertently place unnecessary burdens on charities providing vital care to pets whose owners cannot afford commercial veterinary fees.

"We are therefore pleased that the final outcome reflects the distinct nature of charitable veterinary care. This will help ensure that precious charitable resources, including the time of our veterinary teams, can continue to be focused where they are needed most – supporting people and treating pets in need – rather than being diverted into unnecessary administration.

"We support the CMA’s ambition to make veterinary care more accessible, transparent and affordable for pet owners. It is important that any changes to the veterinary sector deliver real benefits for pet owners while recognising the different ways in which veterinary services are provided.

"PDSA will continue to work constructively with the CMA, Government and the veterinary profession to help ensure that future reforms improve access to veterinary care and protect the welfare of pets across the UK."