Ethical statement

PDSA provides caring, effective and professional veterinary services. We follow the guidelines provided by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and our own ethical code of practice. 

For PDSA pet patients

PDSA strives to relieve suffering and preserve a good quality of life. If nothing can be done for an animal, we will put it to sleep gently and with dignity. PDSA benchmarks the standards of in-patient care as set out by the British Small Animal Veterinary Association. Any animal brought to a PDSA Pet Hospital will be assessed by a nurse or vet and given emergency first aid where necessary. 

For PDSA clients

PDSA provides a courteous and sympathetic service, providing information on the injury or illness of their pet, the available treatments, likely outcomes and any possible side-effects or complications. Once established in a community, PDSA maintains a service for as long as demand continues. Feedback from clients is valued and PDSA responds promptly to complaints in a fair and open manner. 

For PDSA supporters

Donors are PDSA’s lifeblood and their contribution is valued and acknowledged accordingly. PDSA is always conscious of its charitable status and purpose, and uses all its resources prudently. 

For PDSA volunteers

Volunteers are vital to the success of PDSA and they make an immense contribution to many aspects of the charity’s activities, especially retail and fundraising. Volunteers are provided with a safe environment and sufficient resources to fulfil their roles. 

For PDSA employees

All HR policies have universal application and all employees are treated with fairness and respect. All employees receive a fair level of remuneration and are provided with a safe environment and sufficient resources to fulfil their roles. 

For PDSA suppliers and partners

PDSA only works with companies and individuals who are demonstrably reputable and whose activities are not in conflict with the charity’s values or objectives. Explicitly, but exclusively, PDSA makes a conscious decision and effort to not work with companies or individuals involved in invasive testing on animals for cosmetic and other non-medical purposes. PDSA makes a conscious decision and effort to not work with companies or individuals involved in any aspect of the fur trade. PDSA recognises the impact that its purchasing activities can have on reducing modern slavery in the UK and around the world. In order to further develop our approach to modern slavery, a Project Group has been established by the Executive Leadership Team. A copy of the Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement can be found here: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/terms-conditions/modern-slavery.

For PDSA Communications

PDSA is open and honest in its communications and is sensitive to the needs and expectations of its supporters, volunteers and employees.

Revised: March 2022