Companion animal's are members of people's families, people are deeply attached to them, and all responsible owners wish to do the very best for them. Indeed under the 2006 Animal Welfare Act a person commits a criminal offence if the needs of an animal they are responsible for are not met. This includes "the need to be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease". There is no NHS for animal's so the owner has no other option but to consult a veterinary surgeon. There is no doubt at all that Veterinary Surgeon's are highly skilled and work in very challenging conditions, the recent and continuing advancements in veterinary medicine have opened up amazing avenues for the treatment of animals. But this treatment comes at a very high cost, so the "insurance merry go round" is one option responsible owners can consider. It has been stated by the ABI that the avarage claim an owner makes is £600. But with raising premiums many owners are finding insurance for their beloved pets is becoming too costly. All animal welfare bodies in the UK are reporting that the cases of abandonment of animal's are increasing. Could this be linked to the above? The RCVS states that their purpose is "To set, uphold and advance veterinary standards " . They also state their vision is " To enhance society through improved animal health and welfare ". Fine sentiments but surely the RCVS should be able to put a uniform pricing scale in place to ensure all owners are able to do what the law demands they do, and what many responsible owners would wish to do for their beloved four legged friends.