Starting this week, new rules will cap the cost of veterinary prescriptions at £21 and require changes across the veterinary industry to improve transparency and affordability. These changes include informing clients if cheaper medicine is available online, providing written price estimates for treatments expected to cost £500 or more, and publishing price lists for services. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), a UK government body responsible for ensuring fair business practices, introduced these regulations after an investigation found that veterinary prices had been rising at nearly twice the rate of inflation. Vets now have up to 12 months to comply with the new rules. Under the regulations, veterinary practices must publish a "comprehensive" price list for standard services such as consultations, common procedures, and cremation options. They must also disclose whether they are part of a group or an independent business. To help pet owners compare local practices, price and ownership information will be shared through the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons' "Find a Vet" service, which will also provide the data to third-party comparison websites. The time needed to implement these changes will vary depending on the regulation and the size of the veterinary practice. CMA panel chair Martin Coleman said the changes are intended to help pet owners make informed decisions about veterinary care. However, Cate Titterton, owner of an independent vet service in Saltburn, expressed concerns that the new rules might make vet visits more expensive for customers. She argued that without the small profit margin on prescription drugs, veterinary practices may need to raise prices for services, consultations, and surgeries. Titterton believes that the changes will primarily benefit larger vet groups and corporate entities. Dr. Rob Williams, President of the British Veterinary Association, noted that many veterinary practices were already following the CMA's recommendations, including those related to handling complaints, providing price estimates for routine procedures, and managing prescription costs. He emphasized that the association has been clear with the CMA about ensuring that the new rules do not disproportionately affect smaller, independent practices and has raised concerns where necessary. Clive Di Giorgio, a pet owner, expressed hope for a more transparent and affordable veterinary market. He shared his experience of being quoted thousands of pounds for treatment after a vet diagnosed a rash on his dog Louis’ back as cancer. However, a second vet diagnosed the rash as non-cancerous, and the condition was resolved with steroids, antibiotics, and a spray within two weeks. Di Giorgio expressed frustration, stating that he feels some veterinary practices are more focused on maximizing profits than on the well-being of the animals.