Urging vets to 'get off their backsides and respond to a VMD consultation' on the introduction of a new POM-EA category (Vet Times, 19th October) is premature.

Contrary to the report, the VMD has not yet launched a formal consultation.

Jo Cawthorne from the VMD said: "In fact, we've only launched an informal consultation on a concept note amongst a small group of key stakeholders from the RCVS, BVA,  RPSGB, AMTRA, AHDA  and NOAH, in order to decide whether  this is a viable idea and merits a formal consultation."

She added: "There is no need for vets to respond to a consultation which doesn't yet exist. If there is a formal consultation, it will be announced formally on our website and everyone will be given the opportunity to respond."

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