Rightvet topic guide
How to choose a vet in the UK
What to check before you register, how to compare published fees and reviews, and what ownership means for what you pay. Covering 4,825 active UK practices across 744 towns.
4,825
active UK practices
744
towns with comparison data
What to check when comparing practices
Published fees
Many practices publish fees for routine services such as consultations, vaccinations and neutering, though none are required to yet. The CMA has decided they will be, from December 2026 for larger groups and March 2027 for smaller practices. Compare what you can find before you register rather than finding out at the reception desk.
Ownership
Many practices trade under local names while owned by a larger group. Group-owned practices tend to charge higher fees on average. The Rightvet ownership checker lets you look up any practice.
Reviews
Google reviews give a picture of waiting times, communication and the quality of front-desk experience. Look for patterns across multiple reviews rather than individual outliers.
Out-of-hours cover
Check how your potential practice handles OOH emergencies. Some practices provide their own cover; others route calls to a third-party provider. This matters most if you live in a rural area.
Species
Not all first-opinion practices see every species. If you have a rabbit, reptile, bird or other exotic pet, confirm the practice has the experience to treat your animal before registering.
Location
A practice that is convenient to reach is one you will actually use for routine appointments. Factor in parking and public transport, especially if you have a nervous or large pet.
Compare practices near you
Reviews, scores, fees and ownership data for practices near your postcode.
Find a vetCommon questions about choosing a vet
- How do I choose a good vet in the UK?
- Look at published fees, Google reviews, ownership status and whether the practice sees your species. Vets do not have to publish a standard price list yet, but many do, and the CMA has decided they will have to from December 2026 for larger groups and March 2027 for smaller practices.
- Can I switch vets in the UK?
- Yes. You can register with any RCVS-registered practice and ask your current practice to transfer your pet's clinical records. There is no fee for switching.
- What should I check before registering with a vet?
- Check the published price list, look at reviews for context on waiting times and communication, find out who owns the practice, and confirm what out-of-hours cover they provide.
- How many vets are there in the UK?
- Rightvet currently tracks 4,825 active UK first-opinion practices across 744 towns.