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Veterinary surgeons are not normally permitted to prescribe medicines remotely unless the animal(s) have been physically examined.

"Remote prescribing should only take place where no other option is available"

The RCVS has announced that it is to temporarily allow for the remote prescribing of veterinary medicines where appropriate and where complying with government advice leaves no suitable alternative.

The decision comes in response to the government's current guidance on reducing the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus by limiting all-but-essential contact with others.

RCVS president Niall Connell said: “In these unprecedented times we recognise that undertaking a physical examination of an animal may no longer be safe for people or practicable under the restrictions on movement and contact that the UK Government has recommended and is likely to enforce.

“Vets and vet nurses will always have animal health and welfare as their key professional priority, but they must now prioritise their personal safety and that of their practice teams and clients, and do as much as they can to ensure the protection of public health. Personal and public safety overrides animal welfare.”