How to Start a Veterinary Practice
Resources to make your startup research easy.
The How to Start a… series serves as a quick start guide for initial research on starting businesses in various industries. It covers costs, opportunities, considerations, and more.
Key Takeaways
1. Veterinary Practice Business Models
2. Common Equipment Requirements
3. Average Prices Charged for Veterinary Services
4. Marketing Your Veterinary Practice
5. Average Costs of Starting a Veterinary Practice
6. Average Ongoing Monthly Costs for a Veterinary Practice
7. Choosing the Right Business Structure for Your Veterinary Practice
8. Common Mistakes of Owning a Veterinary Practice
9. Other Startup Resources, Including Associations, Books, Software, Franchises
Veterinary Practice Business Models
The veterinary industry features a variety of business models, each designed to meet different market needs and client preferences. From traditional clinics to innovative mobile services, there are numerous opportunities for veterinarians to cater to the growing demand for pet healthcare.
1. Traditional Veterinary Clinics
Traditional veterinary clinics focus on providing comprehensive medical care in a fixed location. These clinics offer a wide range of services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and surgical procedures. Many clinics emphasize personalized care, creating a welcoming environment for pets and their owners. Some may also sell pet health products and supplies, ensuring a holistic approach to pet wellness.
2. Mobile Veterinary Services
Mobile veterinary services are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and personalized care. Veterinarians travel directly to clients’ homes in specially equipped vehicles, providing essential services right at the pet owner’s doorstep. This model is ideal for pet owners who appreciate the convenience of in-home visits or have pets that may experience anxiety in traditional clinic settings.
3. Veterinary Franchises
Veterinary franchises operate under established brand names and standardized procedures. This model offers franchisees the advantage of a recognized brand, operational support, and training programs, making it an attractive option for individuals looking to enter the veterinary field with a proven business framework.
Common Equipment Requirements
According to the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association, when establishing your own practice, you can expect to invest in a wide variety of equipment. For instance, veterinary practices need costly instruments for treatments and prevention:
1. Scales
- Veterinary Scales: $500 — $1,500
2. Lighting
- Surgical Lights: $1,000 — $3,500
- Examination Lights: $200 — $700
3. IV Pumps
- IV Infusion Pumps: $500 — $2,000
4. Medication
- Medications (varies widely): $5 — $50 per dose (average monthly stock for a clinic might range $1,500 — $4,000)
5. Anesthesia Machines
- Veterinary Anesthesia Machines: $5,000 — $15,000
6. Autoclaves & Sterilizers
- Autoclaves & Sterilizers: $1,000 — $6,000
7. Exam & Procedure Tables
- Examination Tables: $500 — $2,000
- Procedure Tables: $1,000 — $3,000
8. Tools for Physical Examination
- Stethoscopes: $50 — $200
- Ophthalmoscopes: $200 — $1,000
- Otoscope: $100 — $500
- Thermometers: $20 — $100
9. Digital X-Ray Imaging Machines
- Digital X-Ray Systems: $20,000 — $80,000
10. Supplies for Collecting Laboratory Samples and Administering Treatments
- Syringes and Needles: $50 — $200 per box (varies by quantity and size)
- Blood Collection Tubes: $50 — $200 per box
- Catheters: $10 — $100 each
- Bandages and Dressings: $20 — $100 per box
- IV Fluids and Administration Sets: $100 — $500 per box
Summary of Average Prices
- Scales: $500 — $1,500
- Lighting: $200 — $3,500
- IV Pumps: $500 — $2,000
- Medication: $1,500 — $4,000 per month (stock)
- Anesthesia Machines: $5,000 — $15,000
- Autoclaves & Sterilizers: $1,000 — $6,000
- Exam & Procedure Tables: $500 — $3,000
- Tools for Physical Examination: $20 — $1,000
- Digital X-Ray Imaging Machines: $20,000 — $80,000
- Supplies for Collecting Laboratory Samples and Administering Treatments: $50 — $500 per box/set
These prices are averages and can vary based on brand, quality, and specific features. Summarizing the lower and upper ends of each category, the total estimated costs for veterinary equipment can range from approximately $29,270 to $118,500.
Average Prices Charged for Veterinary Services
The cost of veterinarian services can vary widely depending on the location, the type of animal, the specific service required, and the clinic’s pricing policies. Here are average prices for various veterinarian services in the United States:
General Health Check-ups
- Average Price: $50 to $100
Vaccinations
- Average Price:
- Basic Vaccinations: $20 to $50 per shot
- Full Set of Vaccinations: $75 to $100
Surgical Procedures
- Average Price:
- Spaying/Neutering: $200 to $500
- Other Surgeries: $500 to $2,000+ (depending on complexity)
Dental Care
- Average Price: $300 to $700
Emergency Services
- Average Price:
- Emergency Visit Fee: $100 to $200 (additional costs for treatments)
- Emergency Surgery: $1,500 to $3,000+
Pet Nutrition Advice
- Average Price: $25 to $50 per consultation
Diagnostic Services (X-rays, Ultrasound, Lab Tests)
- Average Price:
- X-rays: $100 to $250
- Ultrasound: $300 to $500
- Lab Tests: $50 to $200 (depending on the test)
Pet Grooming
- Average Price: $30 to $90 per session (depends on pet size and grooming needs)
Pet Boarding
- Average Price: $25 to $45 per day (depending on the facility and services provided)
These prices are averages and can fluctuate based on the specifics of the service and the region. For instance, urban areas and specialized clinics may charge higher fees compared to rural areas or general clinics.
Marketing Your Veterinary Practice
Effective marketing is essential for the success of your veterinary practice. In today’s digital landscape, establishing a strong online presence is key. Start by developing a user-friendly, mobile-responsive website that highlights your services, pricing, and contact details. Your website can serve as a central hub for client interactions, enabling easy appointment bookings and confirmations. Leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your work and connect with potential clients. Regularly posting before-and-after photos of groomed pets can effectively demonstrate your expertise and attract new customers.
While digital marketing is vital, traditional methods should not be overlooked. Consider these strategies:
- Distributing business cards
- Adding branded decals to your vehicle
- Participating in local pet events
- Offering promotions or loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and referrals
Remember, word-of-mouth is incredibly influential in the veterinary field, so focus on providing exceptional service that will leave clients raving about you to fellow pet owners.
Building an Online Presence
In today’s digital era, a robust online presence is crucial for your veterinary practice. Here are some steps to enhance your visibility:
- Start with a well-designed, user-friendly website optimized for both desktop and mobile devices.
- Clearly communicate your services, pricing, location, and booking process on your website.
- Consider adding a gallery to showcase your veterinary care and success stories.
- Include client testimonials to build trust with potential customers.
- Optimize your site for local SEO to ensure you appear in local searches when pet owners look for veterinary services in your area.
Social media platforms are powerful tools for engaging with your audience and showcasing your work. Instagram and TikTok are especially effective for veterinary practices, as they allow you to:
- Share compelling before-and-after photos
- Post engaging videos that highlight your care and services
- Regularly share content that educates pet owners about animal health and wellness
- Encourage satisfied clients to tag your practice when sharing pictures of their healthy pets
- Actively engage with your followers by promptly responding to comments and messages
This interaction not only boosts your visibility but also fosters a loyal community around your brand.
Local Advertising and Networking
While online marketing is essential, local advertising and networking are equally important for your veterinary practice. Start by distributing eye-catching business cards to local pet stores, dog parks, and grooming facilities. These cards serve as a tangible reminder of your services and make it easy for potential clients to reach you. If you have a vehicle for your practice, consider adding branded decals or magnets — turning your car into a mobile advertisement to increase visibility as you travel around town.
Participating in local events is another excellent way to promote your practice and connect with potential clients. Look for opportunities to set up a booth at pet adoption days, community fairs, or pet expos. These events allow you to showcase your expertise, offer quick health assessments, and engage directly with pet owners. Consider volunteering your services at local animal shelters or rescue organizations — this not only gives back to the community but also generates positive word-of-mouth promotion.
Trust is paramount in the veterinary field. By actively engaging with your local community and demonstrating your commitment to animal care, you’ll be well on your way to building a loyal customer base for your veterinary practice.
What are the average costs of starting a veterinary practice?
Starting a veterinary practice involves various costs, which can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and scope of services. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:
Startup Costs for Veterinary Facility
- Real Estate and Construction
- Property Lease: $2,000 — $7,000 per month
- Renovations and Build-Outs: $20,000 — $100,000 (for creating examination rooms, surgery areas, offices, etc.)
- Utilities Setup: $1,000 — $3,000
2. Medical Equipment
- Examination Tables: $1,000 — $2,500 each
- Diagnostic Tools (X-ray, ultrasound, etc.): $10,000 — $40,000
- Surgical Equipment: $10,000 — $25,000
- Laboratory Equipment: $5,000 — $15,000
- Refrigeration Units: $1,000 — $2,000
3. Furniture and Office Equipment
- Office Furniture (desks, chairs, etc.): $3,000 — $7,000
- Computers and Software: $3,000 — $8,000
- Phone System and Internet: $1,000 — $2,000
4. Supplies and Inventory
- Medications and Vaccines: $5,000 — $15,000 (initial stock)
- Consumables (bandages, syringes, etc.): $3,000 — $8,000
- Office Supplies: $1,000 — $2,000
5. Licensing and Insurance
- Business Licenses and Permits: $500 — $2,000
- Professional Liability Insurance: $1,000 — $2,000 annually
- Property and Equipment Insurance: $1,000 — $2,000 annually
6. Staffing Costs
- Veterinarian Salary: $6,000 — $10,000 per month
- Veterinary Technician Salary: $2,500 — $4,000 per month
- Receptionist/Admin Salary: $2,000 — $3,500 per month
- Employee Benefits: $500 — $1,000 per employee per month
7. Marketing and Advertising
- Initial Marketing Campaign: $2,000 — $5,000
- Website Development: $2,000 — $4,000
- Signage: $1,000 — $2,000
8. Miscellaneous Costs
- Legal and Accounting Services: $1,000 — $2,000
- Continuing Education for Staff: $500 — $1,000 annually
- Miscellaneous Expenses: $1,000 — $2,0009.
Total Estimated Veterinary Facility Startup Costs
Summarizing the lower and upper ends of each category, the total estimated startup costs for a veterinary facility can range from approximately $175,000 to $500,000.
Ongoing Costs for Veterinary Facility
- Staffing Costs
- Veterinarian Salaries: $5,000 — $10,000 per month per veterinarian
- Veterinary Technician Salaries: $2,000 — $3,500 per month per technician
- Receptionist/Admin Salaries: $1,500 — $3,000 per month per receptionist/admin
- Employee Benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, etc.): $300 — $1,000 per employee per month
- Continuing Education and Training: $50 — $200 per employee per month
2. Medical Supplies and Inventory
- Medications and Vaccines: $1,500 — $4,000 per month
- Consumables (bandages, syringes, gloves, etc.): $500 — $2,000 per month
- Laboratory Supplies: $300 — $1,000 per month
3. Utilities and Facility Maintenance
- Rent or Mortgage: $2,000 — $7,000 per month
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.): $800 — $2,000 per month
- Facility Maintenance and Repairs: $300 — $1,000 per month
- Cleaning Services: $200 — $700 per month
4. Insurance
- Professional Liability Insurance: $100 — $200 per month
- Property and Equipment Insurance: $100 — $200 per month
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: $100 — $300 per month
4. Marketing and Advertising
- Online Advertising (Google Ads, social media, etc.): $100 — $800 per month
- Print Advertising: $50 — $300 per month
- Website Maintenance: $30 — $150 per month
5. Office and Administrative Costs
- Office Supplies: $50 — $200 per month
- Software Subscriptions (practice management software, billing, etc.): $50 — $200 per month
- Phone and Internet: $50 — $150 per month
- Accounting and Legal Services: $100 — $300 per month
6. Miscellaneous Costs
- Waste Disposal (medical and general waste): $50 — $200 per month
- Uniforms and Laundry: $50 — $150 per month
- Miscellaneous Expenses (unexpected costs, small equipment repairs, etc.): $100 — $300 per month
Total Estimated Ongoing Monthly Costs for a Veterinary Facility
Summarizing the lower and upper ends of each category, the total ongoing monthly costs for a veterinary facility can range from approximately $10,000 to $50,000.
These estimates can vary significantly based on the specifics of the practice, including location, the range of services offered, and the business model (e.g., solo practitioner vs. multi-veterinarian clinic).
Startup Costs for Mobile Veterinary Clinic
Starting a mobile vet clinic involves several essential costs, including vehicle acquisition and modification, medical equipment, licensing and insurance, and initial operational expenses. Here’s a breakdown of the typical startup costs:
1. Vehicle Acquisition and Modification
- Vehicle Purchase: $50,000 — $100,000 (depending on whether it’s new or used and the size)
- Customization/Outfitting: $10,000 — $50,000 (for installing medical equipment, examination tables, storage, etc.)
2. Medical Equipment
- Examination Tables: $1,000 — $2,500
- Diagnostic Tools (X-ray, ultrasound, etc.): $10,000 — $50,000
- Surgical Instruments: $5,000 — $15,000
- Laboratory Equipment: $2,000 — $10,000
- Refrigeration Units (for medicines): $500 — $2,000
3. Supplies
- Medications and Vaccines: $5,000 — $10,000 (initial stock)
- Consumables (bandages, syringes, etc.): $1,000 — $5,000
4. Licensing and Insurance
- Business Licenses and Permits: $500 — $2,000
- Professional Liability Insurance: $1,000 — $3,000 annually
- Vehicle Insurance: $1,000 — $3,000 annually
5. Operational Costs
- Marketing and Advertising: $1,000 — $5,000 (initial campaigns)
- Website Development: $500 — $3,000
- Fuel and Maintenance: $500 — $2,000 (initial fund)
- Employee Salaries (if any): Varies widely
6. Miscellaneous Costs
- Office Supplies and Furniture: $500 — $2,000
- Legal and Accounting Services: $1,000 — $3,000
Total Estimated Startup Costs
Adding up these costs, the total estimated startup costs for a mobile vet clinic can range from approximately $90,000 to $200,000, depending on various factors like the vehicle choice, extent of customization, and equipment quality.
Ongoing Costs for Mobile Veterinary Clinic
Running a mobile veterinary clinic involves various ongoing costs that need to be managed effectively to ensure the business remains profitable and sustainable. Here are the key categories and estimates for ongoing costs:
1. Vehicle-Related Costs
- Fuel: $200 — $600 per month (depending on the distance covered)
- Maintenance and Repairs: $100 — $500 per month
- Insurance: $100 — $300 per month
2. Staff Salaries and Benefits
- Veterinarian Salary: $6,000 — $10,000 per month (varies by location and experience)
- Veterinary Technician Salary: $2,500 — $4,000 per month (if employed)
- Receptionist/Admin Salary: $2,000 — $3,500 per month (if employed)
- Employee Benefits: $500 — $1,500 per month
3. Medical Supplies and Inventory
- Medications and Vaccines: $1,000 — $3,000 per month
- Consumables (bandages, syringes, etc.): $500 — $1,500 per month
4. Licensing and Insurance
- Professional Liability Insurance: $100 — $250 per month
- Business Licenses and Permits: $50 — $100 per month
5. Marketing and Advertising
- Online Advertising: $100 — $500 per month
- Print Advertising: $100 — $300 per month
- Website Maintenance: $50 — $200 per month
6. Office and Administrative Costs
- Office Supplies: $50 — $200 per month
- Software Subscriptions (scheduling, billing, etc.): $50 — $150 per month
- Accounting and Legal Services: $100 — $300 per month
7. Miscellaneous Costs
- Continuing Education for Staff: $50 — $200 per month
- Miscellaneous (unexpected expenses): $100 — $300 per month
Total Estimated Ongoing Monthly Costs
Based on the above estimates, the total ongoing monthly costs for a mobile veterinary clinic can range from approximately $13,100 to $26,400. This wide range accounts for variations in staffing levels, distance traveled, the volume of services provided, and other factors.
These estimates can vary significantly based on the specifics of the practice, including location, the range of services offered, and the business model (e.g., solo practitioner vs. multi-veterinarian clinic).
Choosing the Right Business Structure for Your Veterinary Practice
Selecting the appropriate business structure is crucial as it impacts your taxes, liability, and overall operations. For veterinary practices, common options include sole proprietorship, partnership, and limited liability company (LLC). Each structure offers distinct advantages and considerations, so it’s important to evaluate how they align with your business goals and personal circumstances.
A sole proprietorship is the easiest to establish and grants you complete control over your practice. However, many veterinarians opt for an LLC, which provides valuable personal asset protection. This safeguards your personal finances from business liabilities, a critical factor in a field where there’s potential for accidents or unforeseen events. Additionally, lenders often view LLCs as less risky, which can be advantageous when seeking financing.
Whichever structure you decide on, keep in mind that it will affect your tax filing and business management. It’s advisable to consult with a business attorney or accountant to ensure you make the best choice for your practice.
Common Mistakes of Owning a Veterinary Practice
Veterinary practices, like any other business, face a variety of challenges. Here are the top 10 mistakes or pitfalls commonly faced by veterinary practices:
1. Poor Financial Management: Inadequate budgeting, failure to track expenses, and not setting competitive pricing can lead to financial instability.
2. Inefficient Appointment Scheduling: Overbooking, underbooking, or mismanaging appointment times can result in long wait times, decreased client satisfaction, and lost revenue.
3. Lack of Continuing Education: Not keeping up with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine and technology can lead to outdated practices and decreased quality of care.
4. Inadequate Communication: Poor communication with clients regarding treatment options, costs, and follow-up care can lead to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction.
5. Insufficient Marketing: Failing to market the practice effectively, both online and offline, can limit client acquisition and retention.
6. Neglecting Client Relationships: Not building strong, trust-based relationships with clients can result in low client retention and negative word-of-mouth.
7. Underestimating the Importance of Staff Training: Inadequate training for staff can lead to poor customer service, mistakes in patient care, and high staff turnover.
8. Ignoring Online Presence: Not maintaining an up-to-date website, ignoring online reviews, and lacking social media engagement can negatively impact the practice’s reputation and client reach.
9. Compliance Issues: Failing to comply with veterinary regulations and standards can result in legal problems and damage to the practice’s reputation.
10. Inadequate Record Keeping: Poor management of patient records can lead to errors in treatment, inefficient workflow, and issues with compliance and billing.
Avoiding these common pitfalls requires careful planning, ongoing education, and a focus on both the business and medical aspects of the practice.
Common Zoning Laws and Regulations for Veterinary Practices
Veterinarians should be aware of several key aspects of zoning laws and regulations, as these can significantly impact the operation of their practice. Here are some essential points to consider:
1. Zoning Classifications
- Commercial vs. Residential: Ensure the property is zoned for commercial use if the practice is in a non-residential area. Some residential areas might allow home-based businesses but with restrictions.
- Specific Use Permits: Certain zones might require specific use permits for veterinary practices, especially if they involve animal boarding, surgery, or emergency services.
2. Regulations and Restrictions
- Noise Restrictions: Zoning laws may impose noise limitations, which is crucial for practices with barking dogs or other loud animals.
- Waste Disposal: There may be specific requirements for the disposal of medical and animal waste, which need to be adhered to for both environmental and health reasons.
- Signage: Rules about the size, placement, and illumination of business signs can vary by zone.
3. Building Codes and Standards
- Facility Requirements: Veterinary clinics must comply with local building codes, which might include specifications for ventilation, sanitation, and structural integrity.
- Accessibility: Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other local accessibility laws is mandatory for ensuring that the practice is accessible to all clients.
4. Parking and Traffic
- Parking Spaces: Adequate parking must be provided for clients and staff, which is often regulated by zoning laws.
- Traffic Flow: Consideration of how the clinic will impact local traffic patterns and if any additional infrastructure is needed.
5. Animal Control Ordinances
- Pet Regulations: Local ordinances might regulate the number and types of animals that can be housed or treated at the facility.
- Quarantine and Health Requirements: Rules regarding the quarantine of sick animals or specific health requirements for animals being treated or housed.
6. Environmental Impact
- Environmental Assessments: Some areas may require an environmental impact assessment, particularly if the practice is near protected areas or water sources.
- Green Space Requirements: There might be mandates to maintain certain amounts of green space or landscaping around the facility.
7. Community Impact and Relations
- Community Input: Be prepared to engage with the local community, especially if the practice might impact the neighborhood (e.g., noise, traffic, aesthetics).
- Local Business Relationships: Building positive relationships with neighboring businesses and residents can help in navigating zoning challenges and fostering a supportive environment.
8. Zoning Changes and Variances
- Applying for Variances: If the desired location does not meet zoning requirements, veterinarians might need to apply for a variance, which can be a complex and time-consuming process.
- Staying Updated: Zoning laws can change, so it’s important to stay informed about any proposed changes that could affect the practice.
9. Legal and Professional Guidance
- Consulting Professionals: Engaging with zoning experts, real estate professionals, and legal advisors who specialize in local zoning laws can help navigate these complexities.
- Licensing and Permits: Ensure all necessary licenses and permits are obtained and kept up to date to avoid legal issues.
By understanding and navigating zoning laws effectively, veterinarians can ensure their practices are compliant, functional, and positioned for success within their communities.
For more resources on starting a veterinary practice, I’ve included some recommendations below.
Veterinary Associations
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
The largest and most influential association representing veterinarians nationwide.
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
Focuses on companion animal practices, providing accreditation and resources to enhance veterinary care.
North American Veterinary Community
The NAVC is a nonprofit organization that creates unparalleled opportunities for the veterinary community that foster lifelong learning, encourage growth and promote well-being to advance animal care worldwide.
Veterinary Meeting and Expo (VMX)
“The World’s Leading Veterinary Expo and Conference”
Books and Courses on Starting a Veterinary Practice
Startup Loans for Pet Care Businesses
by Chris Scott
The E-Myth Veterinarian
by Michael E Gerber and Peter Weinstein
Oops, I Became a Manager: Managing the Veterinary Hospital Team by Finding Unicorns
by Amy Newfield
Software for Managing a Veterinary Practice
Covetrus Pulse vOS
Pulse brings all your veterinary software applications into a seamless, cloud-based veterinary operating system (vOS™).
ezyVet
Next-generation cloud-based software that transforms, innovates and automates the way vets run their practices.
DaySmart Vet
DaySmart Vet provides cloud-based practice management software to automate tasks, streamline workflows, and improve communication.
Veterinary Franchises
Purchasing a franchise is a big decision typically based on a 10-year agreement. Thoroughly research the franchise to determine the number of units currently in operation, the number of units closed, the training provided, location analysis, marketing support, etc.
easyvetclinic
Walk-in veterinary clinics
Initial investment as low as $165K
PetWellClinic
Walk-in pet clinics
Initial investment as low as $205K
VetCheck
Pet Urgent Care Center
Contact for Pricing
Pet Depot
Veterinary and pet supplies market
Initial investment as low as $200K
Bingle Vet Clinics
Walk-in veterinary clinics
Initial investment as low as $550K
PetSmart Veterinary Services
Veterinary clinic inside PetSmart
Initial investment as low as $180K
How can I get a loan to start a Veterinary Practice?
If you want to learn who the best loan sources are, click here to read our free article, The Three Best Loan Sources for Startup Businesses. In this article, you will learn how to get startup capital ranging from $10,000 to $350,000. (And avoid wasting your time on low-probability sources.)