DEFRA has published a White Paper setting out its vision for the biggest reform of veterinary regulation since the Veterinary Surgeons Act was introduced in 1966.
Among the proposals is the introduction of a new licence to practise framework that would bring veterinary nurses and certain allied veterinary professionals, including veterinary physiotherapists, into statutory regulation for the first time.
About the reforms
The government says the current legislation no longer reflects the modern veterinary profession.
Its proposals would introduce a new regulatory framework covering veterinary professionals and veterinary businesses, with the aim of improving accountability, strengthening professional standards and giving animal owners greater confidence in the care their pets receive.
The White Paper also includes proposals for greater pricing transparency, mandatory licensing of veterinary practices and the possible introduction of an independent veterinary ombudsman.
About veterinary physiotherapy
Veterinary physiotherapy focuses on improving an animal’s movement, comfort and recovery following injury, surgery or illness.
Treatment may include rehabilitation exercises, manual therapies and other techniques designed to improve mobility, reduce pain and support long-term musculoskeletal health.
Veterinary physiotherapists work alongside veterinary surgeons to help animals recover from orthopaedic, neurological and soft tissue conditions.
What this means
If the proposals become law, veterinary physiotherapists would become part of a statutory licence to practise system alongside other recognised veterinary professionals.
The government says this would create clearer professional standards, define the activities different professions are permitted to carry out and provide greater public confidence in veterinary services.
The proposals are not yet law and will require new legislation before they can be introduced.
What this means for pet guardians
The proposals are intended to make it easier for pet owners to understand who is qualified to provide veterinary care and what standards those professionals are expected to meet.
If introduced, the changes would also provide greater oversight of veterinary businesses and strengthen consumer protections across the veterinary sector.
What happens next
The White Paper sets out the government’s proposals for reform.
New legislation will be needed before the changes can take effect, and further work will determine how the new licensing system will operate and which professions will be included.
Find out more about veterinary physiotherapy
If your pet has been referred for rehabilitation following surgery or injury, or you would like to learn more about veterinary physiotherapy, speak to your veterinary practice about whether physiotherapy could benefit your animal.
Read the DEFRA White Paper
DEFRA’s White Paper, Our Vision for a Thriving Veterinary Sector, was published on 9 July 2026. It sets out the government’s proposals to modernise veterinary regulation, including plans to introduce a new licence-to-practise framework for veterinary professionals and improve consumer protections across the veterinary sector.
You can read the full White Paper here:
Our Vision for a Thriving Veterinary Sector (DEFRA White Paper)
Find a physiotherapist on Yappily
FAQs
What has DEFRA announced?
DEFRA has published proposals to modernise veterinary regulation, including a new licence to practise framework for veterinary nurses and certain allied veterinary professionals.
Are veterinary physiotherapists now statutorily regulated?
No. The changes are proposals only. New legislation will need to be passed before any statutory regulatory framework is introduced.
What is veterinary physiotherapy?
Veterinary physiotherapy helps animals recover from injury, surgery and long-term conditions by improving movement, reducing pain and supporting rehabilitation.
Why are the reforms being proposed?
The government says the current Veterinary Surgeons Act dates back to 1966 and no longer reflects the way veterinary care is delivered today. The proposals aim to modernise regulation, improve accountability and strengthen consumer confidence.
When could the changes happen?
The government has published its proposals, but no implementation date has been announced. The reforms will require new legislation before they can come into force.
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