Last updated 30 August 20262 min readVetsCompared Editorial Team
What You Need to Know
In practice, you usually become a client of a veterinary practice when you book with it. Call or use its website, give your details and your pet's, and ask what to bring to the first visit. If another practice already holds records, tell the new one so it can request the relevant history.
- Booking the first appointment is usually how you register. Ask the practice what details it wants beforehand.
- Bring what you have. BVA first-visit advice lists previous medical history, vaccination records, travel history, and notes on habits or diet. Ask whether the practice also wants medicines, the microchip number, or insurance details.
- If another practice already treated your pet, name it so the new veterinary surgeon can obtain the clinical history. RCVS supporting guidance says that, in an emergency, an initial assessment and essential treatment may happen first.
- If you want to leave a current practice, see how to change vets.
How Do You Register?
Pick the practice you want to use and book. GOV.UK guidance says pet owners decide which practice to use, with advice from their vet.
In practice, most practices start a client file when they take that first appointment, though each practice sets its own process. Ask what they need before you arrive. They will usually want your name and contact details, plus the pet's species, age, and any history you already know. Some want a form completed online. Others take the details on the day.
What to Take to the First Visit
BVA first-visit advice lists previous medical history, vaccination records, travel history, and notes on habits or diet. Ask the practice whether it also wants current medicines, the microchip number, or insurance details.
A new puppy or kitten can usually be booked in before the first check. Take whatever paperwork the breeder or rescue gave you. If something is missing, ask whether they want it sent later.
If Another Practice Already Has the Records
Tell the new practice who last treated your pet. RCVS supporting guidance says a veterinary surgeon should not knowingly take over a colleague's case without informing that colleague and obtaining a clinical history. In an emergency, an initial assessment and essential treatment may happen before that history is obtained.
If you have moved and the old practice is too far, book locally and name the previous practice so the history can be requested. If you want to leave a current practice, see how to change vets.
Emergencies
RCVS fees guidance says a veterinary surgeon on duty should not unreasonably refuse first aid and pain relief for any animal of a species the practice treats, irrespective of payment. You will still be asked for details.
Check the Vet Is on the RCVS Register
BVA advice says it is illegal for anyone in the UK who is not registered with the RCVS to practise as a vet. You can look practices up on RCVS Find a Vet, including the species they treat.
If You Have Not Chosen a Practice Yet
GOV.UK guidance notes that prices can differ between practices for the same treatment. If you want comparable quotes for a specific procedure before you book, you can request them.
People Also Found Useful
How to Change Vets
You can change veterinary practices in the UK without needing your current practice's permission.
What the CMA Vet Decision Means
The CMA published its final report on veterinary services for household pets on 24 March 2026.
Sources
Last checked 30 August 2026.