All accreditations

Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists

ABVA Registered Veterinary Acupuncturist

Practitioner is a vetEst. 1987

What this means for your pet

An ABVA member is a fully qualified vet who has undertaken specific additional training in acupuncture. They can diagnose your pet's condition, consider all treatment options, and provide acupuncture as part of an integrated treatment plan.

About this accreditation

ABVA is a professional body for veterinary surgeons in the UK who practise acupuncture on animals. Acupuncture on animals may only be performed by a qualified veterinary surgeon — non-vets cannot legally perform acupuncture on animals in the UK under any circumstances, even with a vet referral.

Who can hold this accreditation

Must be a qualified veterinary surgeon registered with the RCVS. Must complete the ABVA Foundation Course (4+ days) or equivalent CPD in veterinary acupuncture.

Referral requirement

Not applicable in the usual sense — ABVA members are themselves vets and can diagnose and treat directly. A primary care vet may refer a case to a vet offering acupuncture.

Title protection

All ABVA members are RCVS-registered veterinary surgeons, which IS a protected title.

Professional oversight

Continuing Professional Development

Required to maintain membership

Complaints process

Through the RCVS process (members are vets)

Insurance

Required as RCVS-registered vet

Legal basis

Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 — acupuncture is NOT covered by the Exemptions Order and can only be performed by vets

Accredited providers (123)

Quick facts

Abbreviation

ABVA

Issuing body

Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists

Type

professional body

Protected title

No

Practitioner is a vet

Yes

Providers listed

123

External links

Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists websiteOfficial register