Ethics policy

 

Purpose

The RFVS is committed to the highest ethical standards in all its work. Our core mission is to support cats, dogs and their guardians in a way that is kind, evidence-informed, transparent and centred on animal welfare and wellbeing.

Our ethical commitments:

  • Welfare first

We treat every cat and dog with compassion, respect and dignity. We prioritise the animal’s physical and emotional welfare and do not compromise welfare for convenience, ideology, commercial interest, or popularity.

  • Humanne, on-aversive practice

We do not use intimidation, pain, coercion, or aversive tools. We promote humane, science-informed approaches that build trust, reduce distress and support a safe, stable bond between pets and people. This applies to all contexts, not only training.

  • Empathy and non-judgement

We meet guardians with empathy and without judgment. We recognise that people are on different journeys and that seeking help can feel daunting. We aim to guide, educate and empower, not shame.

  • Evidence-informed, continuously updated

Our guidance is based on current peer-reviewed evidence and professional best practice, and we commit to ongoing learning. We communicate uncertainty honestly and avoid over-claiming.

  • Collaboration and transparency

We value clear communication and appropriate collaboration with other professionals involved in an animal’s care. We explain our methods, the reasoning behind recommendations, practical risks, and expected outcomes.

  • Respect for the individual

Every cat and dog is an individual with unique needs, preferences and history. We adapt our support accordingly and respect diversity in animals, owners and circumstances.

  • Professional integrity and scope

We work within our competence. We do not offer advice or take on cases beyond our professional scope. Where needs fall outside our expertise, we refer to appropriate qualified professionals.

  • Safeguarding, non-accidental injury and wider welfare concerns

RFVS members and affiliates should consider non-accidental injury (NAI) and abuse as differential diagnoses when clinical signs or injuries cannot be explained by the history. We take animal welfare concerns seriously and recognise potential links between animal harm and human welfare risk. If there are concerns, we consider whether a person may also be at risk, whether we may be dealing with a victim or perpetrator, and whether any adult present poses a safety risk to staff.

  • Recording and reporting

Where abuse or NAI is suspected, we support accurate, contemporaneous record-keeping and appropriate escalation or reporting in line with applicable law, professional codes, and relevant guidance. We aim for early intervention where it may prevent further harm to animals or people.

 

Created: January 2026

Next review: January 2027

 

References

RCVS Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Surgeons (current version). Section on Animal Abuse / Non-Accidental Injury.