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Watchdog Calls For Vets To Publish Prices Amid Soaring Costs. The Competition and Markets Authority has urged veterinary practices to publish price lists, saying pet owners should be able to see costs upfront and shop around. Its investigation found vet bills have risen nearly twice as fast as inflation, leaving many owners struggling to afford treatment. The CMA recommends vets disclose if they are part of a larger group, cap prescription fees, and stop offering bonuses for specific treatments. The watchdog highlighted cases like 26-year-old Nicole Hawley, who faced a £12,000 emergency bill for her dog Ernie, forcing her to take out a loan to cover the surgery. Veterinary prices have increased by 63% over seven years and larger vet groups charge on average 16.6% more than independents. CMA director Martin Coleman said practices often fail to give clear estimates or ownership information, leaving pet owners “in the dark about matters affecting their pets and their pockets.”
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