RCVS Accredited Practice (Practice Standards Scheme)
Awarded by Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons · since 2005
What this means for your pet
An accredited practice has voluntarily opened its doors to independent RCVS inspection and met published standards — assurance of quality and safety beyond the legal minimum that every practice must meet.
About this accreditation
A voluntary practice-level accreditation under the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme (PSS). Accredited practices are inspected against published standards covering hygiene, equipment, staff training and clinical governance, and re-assessed every four years. Tiers run Core Standards → General Practice → Veterinary Hospital.
Who can hold this accreditation
Any UK veterinary practice that applies and passes RCVS PSS inspection at the relevant tier.
Referral requirement
No — open access; you can register directly.
Professional oversight
Revalidation
Re-assessed every 4 years.
Complaints process
RCVS Practice Standards Group; concerns can trigger re-inspection.
Legal basis
Voluntary scheme operated by the RCVS under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 framework.
Quick facts
Abbreviation
RCVS Accredited
Issuing body
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
Type
practice scheme
Protected title
No
Practitioner is a vet
Yes