For a Veterinary Surgeon or Nurse to be able to practice in the UK they need to be registered with the RCVS. Unlike our utility providers, banks etc there is no Independent & external regulator to deal with the mounting complaints. We undoubtedly have many brilliant caring veterinary professionals.
You may be interested in these active petitions
Corporate companies who are entering the market at an alarming rate have their own policies too.
The mission statement of the RCVS states they " ...set uphold & advance veterinary standards" . In recent year's the College has started a mediation service, but this is funded by them they set the remit too. In 2014 just one MOP gave oral evidence in their consultation on OOH provision out of 24 other "stakeholders". Failure to consult a vet could result in prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act.