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What is the VCMS' Mediation Process?

Our mediation process works to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome for both parties and on agreeing to mediation both parties sign our legally binding document which outlines the process itself.

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  • June 12th 2023

    Keeping Your Dog Cool

    As Summer approaches temperatures across the UK are warming up. Whilst enjoyed by many, for man’s best friend this rise in temperature can cause unwelcome problems. In today’s article, we share our top tips on…
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  • May 10th 2023

    Mental Health Week 2023

    The 15th - 21st of May is Mental Health Week 2023. The week provides a safe space for us all to think about mental health, tackle stigma, and find out how we can create a…
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  • May 10th 2023

    Ambitions Explored - RCVS Workforce Action Plan

    Last month, Head of the VCMS Jennie Jones participated in the RCVS seminar “Ambitions Explored” that formed part of their new Workforce Action Plan. The RCVS have been running the series of webinars throughout February,…
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  • April 3rd 2023

    Common Misconceptions Surrounding Pet Insurance

    Choosing pet insurance can be a difficult decision to make and many may be unsure what is covered under the insurance plan. As a pet owner, it can be hard to know whether pet insurance…
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  • April 3rd 2023

    Reducing Stress in the Workplace

    Did you know that April is Stress Awareness Month? Held every April since 1992 the campaign helps to increase public awareness about both the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic. Many aspects of…
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  • March 8th 2023

    A Spring in the Step

    Whilst we can’t wait for spring sunshine, longer days and the explosion of life and colour in our gardens and fields, spring does come with a health warning for some… In today’s article we examine…
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  • March 3rd 2023

    The Worry Trend Of Obesity In Dogs

    In our latest blog, we explore the worrying trend of obese animals and what, as an owner, you can do to prevent your #pet from becoming overweight. Recent reports arriving at the VCMS have highlighted…
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  • February 10th 2023

    What to Consider when Choosing a Pet

    The onset of Spring, which is soon to arrive, can often lead many to reconsider looking into whether they want to own a pet or not. In our latest article, we explore just what to…
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  • February 10th 2023

    How to Use Mediation Techniques to Solve Complaints

    Jennie Jones is Head of the Veterinary Client Mediation Service (VCMS) and a partner at Nockolds Solicitors, specialising in complaints and medical negligence, pioneering the use of mediation as an alternative form of dispute resolution…
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  • December 14th 2022

    Grief and How to Deal With Loss

    The famous quote, “Grief is the price to pay for love” may be a comfort to many who have lost not only pets but colleagues, family members and friends. When a valued member of your…
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  • December 14th 2022

    A Dog Safe Christmas

    As the festive season approaches with it promise of indulgence it is an exciting time. However, it also can be full of hidden dangers to our four-legged friends, from toxic foods to dangerous seasonal plants.…
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  • November 14th 2022

    How to Write a Letter of Complaint

    Complaining may not be easy but it is a fact of life. Whether in our personal or professional interactions, complaining can be a difficult yet inevitable experience.
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  • November 3rd 2022

    Pets and Firework Safety

    As we move into the end of October and the start of November, firework season is upon us as many celebrate both Diwali, Guy Fawkes Night and, of course, New Year is on its way.…
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  • October 5th 2022

    Is Over Care an Issue?

    Euthansisa and the putting down of pets is never an easy decision, either for the vet in question or the owner. Often seen as a last resort, the process is emotionally difficult for all concerned.…
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  • October 5th 2022

    The Cost of Cats and Dogs

    The cost of living crisis is placing extra pressure on both pet owners both new and old. With spiralling prices, the cost of owning a pet is more expensive than ever. Reports coming to the…
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  • September 7th 2022

    Those Puppy Dog Eyes…

    Did you know that in terms of pets owned, dogs are the most common pet in UK households, with the share of households reporting dog ownership at 33%?  With this in mind, we look at…
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  • September 7th 2022

    The Cost of Living Crisis and Pets

    Recent reports have been arriving at the VCMS linked to the cost of living crisis and its effects on pet owners. In today’s article, we cover the worrying trend of pets being abandoned as owners…
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  • August 8th 2022

    Respect and ‘Be Kind’ – Online and Verbal Abuse in Veterinary Practices

    In a recent survey conducted by the British Veterinary Association (BVA), it was revealed that 30% of vets had received online abuse in the past year and 47% reported that they had felt intimidated by…
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  • August 8th 2022

    The Cost of Living and Animal Welfare

    The cost of living has increased across the UK and with this comes the added pressure on households up and down the country. Recently, there have been reports that vets fear that pet owners may…
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  • August 8th 2022

    Industry Insight and Lessons Learned

    From the VCMS mediations it was clear to see that the impact of Covid-19 and restrictions continued to exacerbate complaint situations throughout 2021.
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