Today I received a formal response from DEFRA regarding my dog Elva’s case and the wider issues in the veterinary sector.
#JusticeForElva
The Minister for Animal Welfare has confirmed several important points:
  DEFRA acknowledges Elva’s death and the distress caused
  The RCVS cannot intervene in costs or many governance failures
  The CMA is actively investigating the veterinary industry
  The government agrees the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 is outdated
  A public consultation on reform has been launched
  There are calls for stronger regulation, better oversight, and improved complaints processes
This letter shows that what happened to Elva is not an isolated incident — it reflects systemic problems in the veterinary sector that urgently need reform.
I will continue to push for transparency, accountability, and protection for pet owners. No family should ever have to fight this hard for answers.
Here is the relevant extract from the letter:
“The government acknowledges the calls from the CMA, the veterinary sector, stakeholders and the public to update the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and is actively reviewing opportunities for reform.”
This is why Justice for Pets exists — to make sure no one else goes through this.