Transparency of veterinary fees and applicability of UK CMA proposals

We can reveal that veterinary practices across the Island have expressed strong support for greater transparency in pricing, following a letter we sent to all local vets last month in the wake of the UK Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) provisional findings.

The subject has gained fresh attention this week after the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA) issued its own letter to Island vets, echoing concerns raised in the UK about how easily consumers can compare prices for animal treatment and routine procedures.

In October, we wrote to every veterinary practice in Jersey after the CMA proposed 21 reforms designed to improve clarity for pet owners in the UK. These included the mandatory publication of clear pricing online and in-practice, written estimates for treatments over £500, a cap on prescription fees, and transparency about corporate ownership.

Our letter stated:

“These measures have been introduced in response to widespread concern that consumers are unable to make informed choices or compare prices due to a lack of transparency and consistency across the sector.”

It went on to ask local vets whether they already display pricing, whether they fall under UK corporate ownership, and whether they intended to adopt the CMA’s best-practice recommendations.

The four responses received show a broadly consistent approach, in they support transparency, already follow many of the CMA’s recommendations, and are open to further improving consumer information.

You can read the full letter here.

Island Equine Vets said that although the CMA’s inquiry focused primarily on small-animal practices, they were “very happy to comply with any and all of the recommendations,” adding:

“We have had zero complaints about our pricing… we maintain an honest and open dialogue with our clients.”

All Pets Veterinary Centre confirmed that it is wholly independent and already lists prices online. Practice Manager Amanda Halford wrote:

“We display prices for routine consults, procedures and dentals on our website… We provide itemised invoices and estimates for all procedures.”

Village Vets also stressed its independence, stating:

“All decisions are made by the directors… for the benefit of its clients and staff.”

They confirmed that routine prices are displayed online and in-branch, adding:

“We already follow many of the best practices that have been proposed and will continue to provide transparency.”

New Era Vets, the only respondent belonging to a UK group, said it “welcomes enhanced transparency for pet owners.” Clinical Director Ralph Maalouf highlighted that New Era clearly publishes prices and health-plan costs online, and openly discloses its membership of the VetPartners group. He also noted that the CMA’s investigation continues until 2026, adding that VetPartners is “working closely with the CMA to ensure the outcomes benefit pet owners”.

Price transparency matters enormously to pet owners, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. The fact that Jersey’s vets overwhelmingly support the CMA’s direction is reassuring, but is something we need more public feedback on.

Have you recently visited the vets and found their prices easy to find and follow? Or have you been told one price and charged another? Please do get in touch with us (details at the top of the page).

In the meantime, we will continue to monitor developments as the CMA and JCRA progress their work.