Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
RCVS Accredited Veterinary Hospital
What this means for your pet
A Veterinary Hospital can investigate and treat more complex or critical cases on site, with 24-hour care — valuable when a pet may need surgery, intensive care, or out-of-hours hospitalisation.
About this accreditation
The highest tier of the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme. A practice accredited at Veterinary Hospital level meets the General Practice standards plus enhanced requirements for complex cases — 24-hour on-site care, dedicated theatre and imaging, and staffing to support inpatients around the clock.
Who can hold this accreditation
RCVS-accredited practices that meet the enhanced Veterinary Hospital standard.
Referral requirement
No — many accept first-opinion patients directly; some also run referral services.
Title protection
Under the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme, only practices accredited at Veterinary Hospital level may describe themselves as a 'veterinary hospital'.
Professional oversight
Revalidation
Re-assessed every 4 years.
Legal basis
RCVS Practice Standards Scheme (voluntary, under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 framework).
Quick facts
Abbreviation
Veterinary Hospital
Issuing body
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
Type
practice scheme
Protected title
Yes
Practitioner is a vet
Yes