Do mobile units and stalls at exhibitions/shows need to be registered?

A mobile unit (which includes an ambulatory unit) cannot be registered by itself as a Veterinary Practice Premises (VPP), but must be linked to a registered ‘bricks and mortar’ premises where the unit is normally stored (even if no veterinary services or VMP supply takes place from the premises itself).

A stall at an exhibition or show which is for the promotion of a registered VPP and/or veterinary services, does not need to be registered as a VPP in its own right, and small quantities of VMPs can be supplied, provided the stall is an extension of the registered VPP. This applies as long as an MRCVS is present to supply the VMPs. If there is no MRCVS present then an SQP is required and the location will need to be registered as a VPP.

If the stall is operating solely to retail supply VMPs, then it needs to be registered as a standalone VPP. However, a tent or marquee cannot be registered as a standalone VPP as neither is considered to be permanent premises.

In the case of a mobile unit, (which would include a tent or marquee), like the vet’s car, the unit must be related to the promotion of a Registered VPP and/or a vet treating animals, and cannot be used solely as a mobile shop to retail supply VMPs.