Episode 8: Corporates, independents and competition – unravelling the mysteries of the vet industry

Episode 8: Corporates, independents and competition – unravelling the mysteries of the vet industry

There has been a lot in the news about the UK's Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA’s) investigation into the companion animal (pet) veterinary industry. Maggie and Vanessa discuss the changes that have occurred over the last few years, including the increase in the number of corporately owned practices and the impact this has had. They look at what changes have been suggested by the CMA, whether they will really make a difference to pet owners and the impact the investigation has had on frontline vet staff.  The CMA's remedies and recommendations to vet practices can be found here [https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/veterinary-services-market-for-pets-review].

Episode 7: How to get the best out of your vet

Vanessa and Maggie explain how you can get the best out of your vet practice and make the right choices for your pet. Making a real difference to the cost of treatment is not just by shopping around; it’s about what treatment options are best in each individual situation. Like any service, owners need to check what they are getting for their money – what is the best value, may not be the cheapest. There are plenty of tips on improving communication and trust between owners and their vets to get the right outcome for their pets.

Episode 6: Why are vets so expensive?

Never afraid to tackle difficult topics, in this episode, Maggie and Vanessa answer the question, ‘Why are vets so expensive?’. Medical care is expensive for both humans and animals and many people don’t understand the true cost of their own health care. Costs of similar procedures for people and animals are compared as well as looking at overheads and the salaries of vets versus other professionals. You might be surprised at some of the answers!

Episode 5: Adopt or shop?

So, you’ve decided which pet to get. You want to get them from a reliable source, but what is that – a breeder, a pet shop, a rehoming charity or even online? Should you visit them first? Is it sensible to get a pet via social media or from abroad?   Vanessa and Maggie consider the options available and discuss the pitfalls to help you make an informed decision when choosing where to get your new pet from.

Episode 4: Cute vs commitment: Choosing the Right Pet

You’ve decided which species you want so what’s next? What age, sex or colour of pet do you want and where are you going to get them from? Do you want a playful kitten or an older lap cat? Do you want a pedigree pet? What are the initial costs you need to consider? Maggie and Vanessa discuss the pros and cons and give tips about how to get a pet that is happy and healthy and is right for you.