Davies is an RCVS Accredited Hospital. But What Does that Really Mean for You and Your Pet?

When you bring your pet to a veterinary practice, you want to know they’re receiving the best possible care. But how can you be sure? One way is by choosing a practice accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Practice Standards Scheme (PSS)—a mark of excellence that ensures high standards in veterinary care, facilities, and client service.

At Davies Veterinary Specialists, we’re proud to be part of this voluntary scheme. But what does that mean for you?

What Is the Practice Standards Scheme?
The PSS is a quality assurance programme that assesses veterinary practices against a range of standards. These include legal compliance, clinical governance, client communication, and even sustainability. Practices can apply for different levels of accreditation depending on the services they offer and the species they treat. They can also earn awards in areas where they excel—like patient care or team development.
As Laura Barham, Clinical Governance Lead at Davies, explains:
“The PSS isn’t just a tick-box exercise. It’s a chance for us to reflect on what we do well and where we can improve. It’s about being transparent, accountable, and always striving to do better—for our patients, our clients, and our team.”

Meet Laura Barham: Championing Clinical Excellence
Laura’s role as Clinical Governance Lead is central to maintaining and improving the quality of care at Davies. She works across departments to ensure that clinical standards are consistently high, that protocols are evidence-based, and that the team is supported in delivering safe, effective, and compassionate care.
Her work includes:
Auditing clinical practices to ensure they meet RCVS and internal standards.
Facilitating continuous improvement through feedback, training, and reflective learning.
Supporting the team in implementing best practices and responding to new challenges.
Leading the PSS accreditation process, ensuring Davies not only meets but exceeds expectations.

“It’s not about being perfect,” Laura says. “It’s about being open to feedback and always looking for ways to improve. That mindset is what drives excellence.”

Why It Matters to Pet Owners
For pet owners, RCVS accreditation is a sign that your veterinary team is committed to best practice. It means the practice has undergone a rigorous assessment process and is regularly reviewed to ensure standards are maintained.
Laura adds:
“When pet owners see that a practice is RCVS-accredited, they can feel confident that their animal is in safe hands. It’s not just about clinical care—it’s about the whole experience, from the moment they walk through the door.”

Why It Matters to Referring Vets
For referring vets, knowing that a specialist centre like Davies meets PSS standards provides peace of mind. It ensures continuity of care, robust clinical governance, and a shared commitment to excellence.
“We work closely with referring vets to ensure seamless communication and collaborative care,” says Laura. “Being part of the PSS reinforces that partnership—it shows we’re all working to the same high standards.”

Looking Ahead
At Davies, we’re proud to uphold the standards set by the RCVS and to be part of a profession that values quality, compassion, and integrity. Whether you’re a pet owner or a referring vet, the PSS is a powerful indicator of trust—and we’re honoured to wear that badge.