RCVS seeks views of vet service users
The deadline for applications is 5pm on 7 June 2023.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is recruiting around 30 veterinary service users to join its new Public Advisory Group.
Members of the group will help to inform the RCVS about issues affecting the public, act as a sounding board for draft policies, support the development of RCVS services for the public, and test messages and communication to make sure they are clear and understandable.
The group will initially run for a 12-month trial period and members will need to be able to attend two or three online meetings over the course of the year. Those attending will be given paperwork to read ahead of time and will be expected to keep discussions confidential.
Veterinary service users, including, but not limited to, owners and keepers of companion animals, equine, and production animals are invited to apply to join the group. The deadline for applications is 5pm on 7 June 2023.
Louise Allum, RCVS council member and chair of the Public Advisory Group, said: “Animal owners and keepers play an essential role in supporting animal welfare, and it is therefore not only right, but necessary, that we actively seek to inform the public of our activities and take their opinion into account when making wide-reaching decisions.
“We are inviting animal owners and keepers from all backgrounds - from companion animal, to equine and farm – to be a part of our Public Advisory Group to help us actively engage with members of the public and to ensure that the veterinary professions continue to meet the needs of clients and animals alike. We also hope that, by involving animal owners and keepers in our work, we can improve the ways in which we communicate our messages to veterinary service users. When working towards a collective goal, it is vital that everyone has a chance to be a part of the conversation.”
Details about how to apply to join the Public Advisory Group can be found on the RCVS website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
