30/09/2026
A bit of a post we have been avoiding writing. As you may know, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) recently concluded its investigation into the UK veterinary industry. We fully welcome their new guidelines regarding practice ownership transparency, written treatment estimates, and prescription options. As an independent practice, clear communication, transparency, and personalised compassionate care remain our highest priorities
We already operate fully within the new guidelines so you will see very little change to the way we work 🥳 The only real change coming soon is a bit of a website redesign for ease of navigation which was planned anyway!
However, the CMA has introduced a mandatory regulatory levy on all UK veterinary practices to fund these new 'rules'. Unfortunately, this fee is a flat rate per practice—meaning small, independent businesses like ours are charged the exact same amount as larger corporate practices, regardless of size or turnover. With only 3 working days notice for payment (!) we have been invoiced for this levy, with further ongoing charges set to continue; which are still TBC by them from around March next year. This is costing us hundreds of pounds this year and will likely be more next year.
To help cover these unexpected regulatory costs, it is with a heavy heart we are having to make the difficult decision to adjust some of our pricing effective October 4th 2026:
- Written Prescription Fees: Our written prescription fee will increase from £15 to £21 (the cap set by the CMA).
- Service Charges: We will be adding a small increase of a few pounds to select service charges such as nail clips
- Future Adjustments: Due to these rising operational costs, we will also need to implement a general price increase in January 2027.
Please know that this decision has not been undertaken lightly. We have always strived to offer fair, competitive pricing and actively encourage options like written prescriptions to help save you money. Making these adjustments is necessary to ensure we can continue providing personal, flexible, and experienced mobile care for your pets.
Thank you so much for your understanding and continued support of our independent practice.
As always, any concerns or queries about any of this please get in touch.
Much love, Gemma x
Robin's Nest Vets is your Independent Mobile Veterinary Service in Harrogate🐕🏡🐈🏡🐰🏡
If you wish to book an appointment, enquire about our services, or simply say hello, please email us on [email protected] or give us a call or a WhatsApp on 07949271570 🥰 we would love to hear from you!
