mobile veterinary clinic business plan

Road Map to Starting a Mobile Practice: Unique Benefits and Challenges

Have you ever looked out your clinic window on a nice day and wished you could smuggle yourself outside for just an hour? Does it sometimes feel like moving a mountain to organize an hour to go to a doctor’s appointment? Who doesn’t want more time away from the office or crowded hospital? Who wouldn’t prefer having more ability to make their own decisions when it comes to work schedules and how your practice conducts its business? Flexibility and getting away from the office are just two reasons why a growing number of veterinarians are making the jump to mobile practice, in some cases leaving the traditional brick-and-mortar practice behind entirely. Perhaps the rise of corporate consolidation, compassion fatigue and the need for greater work-life balance are additional factors driving a sub-set of the profession to consider a different way.

Hitting the road as a mobile practitioner can have a number of benefits but, like everything else, there are also downsides to consider: gas prices, lower revenues, longer days and, of course, traffic! Still, the practice model continues to expand, with a growing number of small animal veterinarians making the switch to a model previously dominated by large animal practitioners. This article will explore some of the complex issues and logistics – along with advantages and disadvantages – that come with this practice model. That’s because, when considering whether mobile practice is the right next step in your career, or if it’s a viable service to add to your existing practice, it’s important to delve beyond the obvious. Now that you’re daydreaming of hitting the road, let’s examine things on a deeper level.

Making the Finances Work

The decision to go mobile must make financial sense. Indeed, this is the barrier most veterinarians see as a road block. Mobile practice, however, is not unlike any other business where viability and profitability come down to expense and revenue. To see if your vision can become a reality, first create a detailed business plan.

A recent article in Veterinary Practice News found the cost of starting a stationary small animal clinic to be approximately $1,000,000 (including most standard equipment). However, a mobile clinic startup cost was estimated to be roughly $250,000, a quarter of the price. Obviously, the equipment you choose, real estate pricing and the scope of your practice all have a significant bearing on the initial startup costs, but there is no denying mobile has a much smaller buy-in. Today’s vet school graduates are likely to have upwards of $135,000 of debt associated with their education, according to recent AVMA data, making investing in a mobile practice seem a more practical choice. As a mobile practitioner, your investment is not subject to all the forces that affect a real estate holding. With brick and mortar, if the neighborhood takes a turn for the worse or you have a dispute with a neighbor, you’re locked in for the long haul. As a mobile clinic, though, you are at the whim of gas prices. Currently gas prices are $2.09/gallon, a significant expense in a vehicle likely to get poor mileage per gallon – and fluctuations in gas prices will also include upward ones, adding to the expense.

Will you be a small, large or mixed animal practice? What are the needs of your intended service area? Understanding your market and where your revenue streams are likely to come from will determine what set up is best for you. Many would argue that having a 26-foot vehicle may not make sense if you only intend to see mostly horses. However, if you are a small animal practitioner and plan to provide a standard of care that is similar to stationary practices, bigger may be better. You may wish buy a larger vehicle to accommodate a dental unit, x-ray equipment and surgical suite. Several companies offer ranges of options for veterinarians from built-ins for trucks and SUVs to vehicles with more square footage than your apartment in vet school. Keep in mind that, as a small animal practitioner, what you gain in fuel efficiency (cost) with an SUV versus 26-footer, you may lose in revenue, having to refer to local practices for anesthetic procedures, radiographs and so forth.

The average monthly expenses as reported in a survey conducted by LaBoit, Inc., a mobile unit manufacturer, were estimated at $6,050 to include vehicle payments, service of vehicle, fuel costs, insurance, supplies, cell line, advertising, pharmacy and professional services. That’s a yearly cost of roughly $72,600. However, this estimated cost does not factor in the most significant expense of any hospital budget: staff salary (including yourself) and benefits. Most mobile practitioners choose to have an assistant to help answer calls, schedule appointments, maintain the vehicle, and various other tasks that work to increase practice efficiency and decrease veterinary exhaustion. As a start, consider two salaries: a veterinarian (you) and a technician. The national median salary for a veterinarian is $87,590 and, for a technician, the average salary is $31,070. To more closely approximate actual cost per employee, it is recommended to multiply salaries by a factor of 1.5 to include benefits and other employer costs. Then there are practice insurance policies, marketing, taxes, accountant fees and possibly fees for a payroll service.

On the upside, mobile practices have the added perks of no property taxes and no rent! Purchase of larger veterinary mobile units comes with the benefit of free marketing as you are essentially driving a billboard around all day. If the schedule is open, strategic parking can result in high visibility and real bang-for-the-buck marketing.

How wide of an area will you cover? This is paramount when establishing your business plan. If you plan to cover a large swath of a county, you’d better have either a fuel efficient vehicle and/or a higher than average client transaction to counter the simple fact that a larger area means more transit time. Maybe you can serve a large area but only visit the northern part of the county on Mondays and Wednesdays, and book the southern part on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Not unlike your traditional stationary clinic, there must be sufficient population to not only support but to grow the practice over time. The beauty of mobile practice, though, is that you can go where the clients are and you have the freedom to refine your territory for maximum efficiency.

House-call Fees

According to an informal survey of mobile practitioners who purchased units from LaBoit, Inc., the average house call fee was $50. It should be noted that this fee is assessed to clients for your driving to them and the convenience that provides. Some practitioners develop a stratified house call fee schedule based on the amount of miles a call would be from a central location on a map.

House call fees may highlight another difference between large animal and small animal mobile clientele. A large animal client may view you driving to them as a necessity, not a convenience, making a $50 to $60 fee unpalatable to some. If you are planning to offer small animal service, understand that the cost of the practice model must be shifted to the clients, so be sure the market you serve would tolerate the $50-$60 more per transaction that is necessary to offset the cost of keeping gas in the tank.

Let’s do some math:

Days of operation X average transactions X number of clients per day X weeks in a year = average gross revenue

If we fill in numbers reported in the LaBoit survey, we get:

5 days/week X $250 average transaction X 5 clients/day X 50 weeks/year = $312,000

While this number may be underwhelming when you look at revenue from a multi-doctor stationary practice, the key is of course to consider the other factor in determining profit: cost.

$312,000 revenue – 250,590 cost = $61,410 profit

You must also have a realistic financial project that accounts for building a client base from zero. If your projections are accurate and the business is able to stick to the budget in your business plan, you should have some profit left to reinvest in your practice. Maybe you purchase a new piece of equipment, invest in marketing or reinvest in staff.

Form a Business Entity

The rules and tax benefits that govern what type of business entity you may wish to form varies from state to state. In some states – California, for example – veterinarians are not allowed to operate as a limited liability company (LLC) or a limited liability partnership (LLP). As such, California veterinarians form entities such as a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, under which they conduct business. Forming a corporation can protect its owner(s) or shareholders from being personally liable for any corporation obligations, liabilities and/or debts. The two main flavors of corporations are “C” and “S” corporations. With an “S” corporation, in the event of practice sale, there is only one tax levied upon the sale, whereas with a “C” corporation the sale is double taxed.  For these reasons, the great majority of veterinarians choose to form “S” rather than “C” corporations. It is imperative to seek out the advice of a knowledgeable corporate accountant on which business entity is best for you.

Financing the Operation

Veterinarians often need to seek out loans to finance this operation. This is when a well laid out business plan can really help, as it provides the critical information lenders need to assess the viability of your business and your ability to pay them back. If you have less than 20% of the total cost in your own funds to contribute, you’ll likely need an SBA lender. Depending on your personal financial profile, credit history and business experience, the amounts, rates and terms will vary. In addition to financing through veterinary lenders, (Live Oak, B of A, Wells Fargo), many of the companies that manufacture mobile veterinary vehicles have financing programs in place. You can also investigate local lenders and private investors. It’s important to shop around for the best interest rates and terms for your loan to help bolster the short and long term financial projections. LaBoit, Inc., Dodgen, Bowie, Magnum and Faber are the major players serving the mobile vet market with custom built vehicles.

Other Startup Costs

Initial supply orders can be a heavy upfront cost in any startup, but luckily many vendors offer discounts and payment plans that help with cash flow early on. Regardless of the size and scope of your mobile practice, your initial order will be a fraction of that expected in most stationary clinics. A survey of mobile veterinarians published in DVM360   listed the equipment considered essential to mobile veterinarians, which included: digital scale, portable x-ray machine, portable ultrasound machine, centrifuge and dental equipment. Some of these may come with your custom built unit and be included in the price, while others will need to be separately financed. As a rule of thumb, a startup practice should be able to generate a positive cash flow by about the sixth month.

Insurance, Permits and Paperwork

The AVMA PLIT website has a list of insurance policies packaged for mobile practitioners. For the most part, policies such as workers compensation and employment practices liability are similar to those recommended in stationary practice. Having business/commercial auto insurance is essential in protecting your investments and allowing company employees to drive the vehicle. A general business owner (BOP) policy will protect personal business property in your home, vehicle and temporary off-premise sites like client’s homes. A BOP policy will also cover general liabilities not covered in auto, malpractice or employer coverage.

A business license, DEA license, current state veterinary license and, in some states, controlled drug license are required for mobile practices. A veterinary premise permit may be required, depending upon the state you intend on practicing in: for example, California, Florida and Arizona, among others. The laws governing DEA licensing and veterinary medicine are often a bit gray. Some hospitals will have one DEA license under which associates prescribe drugs within the practice. In the case of mobile practice, you will either be a solo practitioner or likely to not always be present when an associate prescribes/uses drugs, making it a necessity for each DVM to have a DEA license.

Taxes can be a significant drain on a small startup business. If you use your vet-mobile for a combination of personal and business use, then your mileage can be tax deductible. If you use the vehicle for business uses only, then you would not claim mileage but, rather, depreciation. Certain other expenses associated with mobile practice may be deductible, as well, such as gas and maintenance. Understanding tax benefits can be challenging and many veterinary practice owners rely on advice from their tax accountants.

The appeal of being out of the hospital and owning your own practice is obvious and many mobile practitioners list one or both of these two lifestyle perks as being reasons to make the leap into mobile practice. However, there are several drawbacks to the mobile lifestyle you should consider. To serve enough clients per day to generate healthy revenue, it may be necessary to work long days or maybe six days per week. Ultimately this will depend on your fee schedule and the area you plan on servicing, but by the nature of having to drive to your clients, your efficiency will suffer.

Mobile practice can also be more physically and mentally demanding for some. Most stationary practices will offer 20- to 30-minute appointments, of which you may interact with the client for 10 to 20 minutes. In mobile practice, your appointments general run much longer (30 to 60 minutes), hence the appeal for many clients. This means you must be “on”: personable, engaged and social for up to an hour at a time with each client. If you find it difficult to make small talk and general conversation with clients, mobile practice is not for you. As a mobile practitioner, you may be called to place a catheter, draw blood, clean kennels and restrain patients for radiographs, whether or not you choose to have an assistant. Then there’s the traffic and the exhaustion of driving a huge vehicle around town, navigating narrow streets or deciding whether or not your truck will get stuck on that dirt road up ahead. Driving, jumping in and out of a truck, and carrying equipment are all part of the gig that can further contribute to an already physically demanding job, and result in exhaustion.

Having said all that, as a former mobile practitioner technician, I can tell you there is something that feels alluringly right about playing fetch with your patient for 10 minutes after catching them up on their vaccines or examining the cat from hell on the kitchen table without so much as a flick of the tail.

Market Outlook

According to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the projected veterinarian employment growth rate is healthy, expecting to grow by 9% between 2014 and 2024 5 . This rate is slightly above average expected growth for all occupations (7%), so this is the good news. The bad news is that, for young vets looking for opportunities to own a practice, inventory is limited and continues to decrease each year. With corporate consolidations up to about ten percent of the practices, the independent practitioner is forced to compete with juggernauts.

Mobile service, though, can offer clients a stark contrast to the corporate model and elevate service to a new level. Mobile care is a boutique offering with highly individualized personal care, provided by one or two faces. The mobile model may just be the antidote for corporate consolidation in some areas already dominated by giants and the best option for ownership for the next generation of entrepreneurs. The question remains: how is the market expected to grow for mobile service? A 2002 TIME magazine article noted a steadily growing number of veterinarians who are offering house calls or opening mobile services, with membership in the American Association of Housecall Veterinarians (AAHV) increasing 150% compared to the past decade. LaBoit, Inc., at that time, reported seeing sales increase 40% over each of the past five years. Unfortunately, there is little current published data specific to mobile practice, but that does not mean we can’t assess clients demand for this service.

In 2015, it became official: the millennials have taken over. That is, a Pew research poll indicates millennials are now the largest living generation. What does this have to do with mobile practice, you may ask? A recent study conducted by Trone Brand Energy published in DVM360 shows that 59% of millennials say their veterinarian takes the time to know them, compared with 64% of boomers. The study shows that millennials are less likely to think their veterinarians are very accessible (47%) compared to boomers (78%). Taken together, this suggests that this demographic is looking for accessibility and desires a more personal relationship with their veterinarian to develop a bond of trust.

Another Pew poll found that more than half (53%) of all working parents with children under 18 say it’s very difficult to balance job responsibility with responsibilities to the family. Mobile practice offers a solution. You can have your family pets’ health care needs met while you make dinner or when the new baby goes down for a nap. The client is waiting at home for their appointment and can work, do laundry or cook while they wait. Here, a choice no longer has to be made between the responsibilities to their pets’ health and life’s demands. Is it worth an extra $50 to a mother with three kids to get the two dogs and the cat a medical visit without having to load everyone up into the minivan? Many families would say: absolutely.

Furthermore, since the advent of the internet and the tremendous access to information, today’s client is often more knowledgeable. Clients feel empowered and seek more of a role in the partnership relationship they share with their veterinarians. Emphasis is on the word relationship . Clients seek transparency and active engagement in their pets’ health care. Mobile care offers more of an opportunity to build relationships with owners and to educate them. Mobile service is uniquely suited to provide transparency on both sides of the exam table. When clients can watch you work, they feel involved and can have a greater appreciation for the service you provide.

AVMA published the Bayer Veterinary Usage Study in 2011 that examined the industry’s declining revenues and number of visits (usage). The study cited what they called “feline resistance,” in which data indicated that because many cats hate being loaded into carriers for transport to the vet, 40% of them had not been to the veterinarian within the past year, as compared with 15% of dogs. Owners reported that their cats show signs of stress during veterinary visits, which lead to deferred trips. Many cat owners expressed a desire to avoid the difficulties and unpleasantness associated with bringing their cat to the veterinarian. Perhaps “feline resistance” explains why only 83% of cat owners who responded to the survey said their animal had a primary veterinary clinic, compared with 91% of dog owners. Mobile practice can help bridge this gap by alleviating the unpleasantness, providing health care to the family cat all while tapping into a sizable new revenue stream. The same concept likely also applies to fractious dogs or multi-pet households who under-utilize veterinary care simply due to stress involved with taking their pets in for an appointment.

Conclusion:

Getting into the mobile veterinary business is a creative opportunity that offers unique rewards, benefits and opportunities, along with challenges, to practice the profession you love in a whole new way. Mobile practice has a growing role to play in the profession and may represent the most viable path to ownership for the younger generation of veterinarians. Before you hit the open road, though, make sure you’ve got the right road map to guide you.

• Business & Contractual Issues
• Current Issues
• Customer Service
• Employment Laws
• Human Resources
• Mental Health
• Mobile Practice
• Practice Management
• Practice Sale
• Risk Assessment
• Termination
• Veterinary Practice

Regulatory & Practice Operational Consultant

• More than 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine, including as practice owner and hospital administrator
• Consults with veterinarians nationally in various risk and practice management areas. Her areas of expertise encompass compliance with DEA regulations, as well as other state and federal regulations, clinic and hospital practice management & operations, finance and marketing.
• Served as a two-time President of Veterinary Specialty Practice Alliance (VSPA).
• Received the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Southern Arizona “Woman Business Owner of the Year” award
• Key Opinion Leader for Zoetis Animal Health
• RACE-approved nationwide speaker, including for AVMLA, AVMA, and state VMA conferences, as well as Zoetis, Epicur, Stokes, Cubex, and multiple other companies and organizations

Founder & CEO

• Earned her DVM in 1988 from University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, completed a large-animal internship at the University of Guelph (Ontario, Canada), and worked at an equine medical and surgical referral practice serving northern New Jersey
• Earned her JD in 1997 from the University of Pennsylvania Law School
• Is in-demand as a speaker around the world, frequently presenting at conferences hosted by NAVC, AVMA, WMPG, VMG, AAHA, Viticus Group (formerly WVC), and other major veterinary associations, along with numerous radio and TV appearances
• Contributes regularly to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, NAVC’s Today’s Veterinary Practice and Veterinary Practice News, and publications from AAHA, Veterinary Clinics of North America and Veterinary Economics-DVM360
• Is past president of NAVC and also has served in leadership roles for AVMA, AAHA, AAEP, NJAEP, NJVMA, and PVMA
• Serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

Paralegal & Transaction Coordinator

• Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Raritan Valley Community College’s highly respected and ABA approved program
• Communications Studies B.A. from Rowan University
• Previously worked for a multi-doctor small animal veterinary hospital for 15 years
• Multi-purpose role at VBA serving as your personal guide through all aspects of the veterinary practice sale.
• Direct line of contact with Dr. Lacroix to swiftly address and resolve any questions, issues or concerns throughout the process.
• Acts as a liaison between seller and corporate buyers to save you time and streamline the bidding process.
• Walks you through both the financial and legal due diligence requests.
• Assists you with gathering and organizing all the information and documentation needed about your hospital vendors and contracts, equipment, business insurance, employee benefits, licenses and permits, and more in preparation for working on your transaction documents.
• Helps you and your managers prepare for closing and facilitate a smooth transition.

Communications & Marketing Consultant

• With almost 2 decades of dedicated service in the veterinary industry, Isaac’s journey started with a small animal practice in upstate New York. He acted as practice manager for over a decade where he developed a passion for veterinary-specific crisis communications. He then worked for IDEXX for several years, helping to mediate laboratory-specific issues on behalf of both IDEXX and its clients. Having spent a significant amount of his life in the veterinary profession, Isaac has a unique talent for communicating with veterinarians and their clients. For Isaac, the veterinary profession isn’t just a career; it’s a fundamental part of his identity.

Associate Attorney

• Earned her dual JD/MBA degrees from Seton Hall University
• Earned her bachelor’s degree from Susquehanna University
• Extensive experience negotiating and drafting a wide range of transactions including acquisitions, stock-purchase agreements, leases, real estate purchase and sale agreements, service contracts, and construction contracts
• Previous experience as an associate at law firms and in-house legal departments specializing in transactions and real estate

• Earned his JD degree with honors in Corporate Law concentration from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles in 2012
• Earned his LL.M degree in Securities and Financial Regulation, with distinction, from Georgetown University Law Center in 2013
• Previous law firm and in-house experience assisting clients with business and regulatory needs
• Near native French and advanced Russian skills

• Earned her Master of Laws in French and Anglo-American law with a focus in Business Law from Université Paris Nanterre in 2005
• Earned her Master of Laws (LL.M) in Comparative Law from Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 2005
• Previously worked as a legal consultant at the Bronx Zoo, Wildlife Conservation Society for the Africa Program
• More than 15 years of experience as an attorney assisting clients with their corporate and employment business needs
• Fluent in French and Italian

Practice Management & Human Resources Consultant

• Certified Veterinary Practice Manager by Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA)
• Nationally certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) by HR
• Certification Institute (HRCI)
• Certified Professional with the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM)
• Certified Veterinary Business Leader by North American Veterinary
• Community (NAVC)
• More than 15 years of experience in the HR field, including serving as former head of an HR department in a large technology company
• Social and Emotional Intelligence Coach
• Earned her undergraduate degree in political science from Rutgers University
• Previously served as a technician in a wildlife rehabilitation facility
• Co-Author/Editor of AAHA’s Guide to
• Creating an Employee Handbook, Fourth Edition
• Contributes to Today’s Veterinary Business, AAHA’s News Stat, and Veterinary Practice News, as well as The Social DVM blogs
• Presents for VMG Groups, Hills, Viticus Group, and many other groups
• Actively volunteers with various organizations, most notably the “Night to Shine” event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation

• No products in the list

Veterinary Equipment Manufacturer

Mobile Veterinary Care: What You Need to Know Before Starting Your Own Practice on Wheels

Last Updated: March 6, 2020 by Dr. Catherine Barnette, DVM

Table of Contents

Mobile veterinary practices are rising in popularity, serving an increasing number and variety of pet owners. In many ways, this is a win-win proposition for both veterinarians and their clients.

The convenience and individual attention that these practices provide is especially appealing to pet owners who seek out personalized, concierge-style services. At the same time, many veterinarians are graduating with significant debt, making it challenging or intimidating to purchase a brick-and-mortar practice. Mobile clinics follow a leaner, more accessible business model.

Finally, pets are often stressed by car travel and the sights, sounds, and smells associated with a busy veterinary clinic. This means that pets, too, can benefit from a mobile veterinary practice.

What equipment is required to start a mobile veterinary practice?

Some are solo veterinarians operating out of their personal vehicle, while other veterinarians work with a technician to provide full-service care in a large mobile veterinary unit.

As such, there is often significant variation between mobile practices, both in practice style and in required equipment.

Many mobile veterinarians focus on a specific niche. Some primarily offer preventive care, providing vaccines and wellness exams for clients who would prefer not to take their pet in to a veterinary clinic.

Other veterinarians limit their mobile practice to pet hospice and euthanasia, alternative medicine, or any other niche market that is in demand in their geographic area. These veterinarians may drive their personal vehicle to appointments, carrying only the equipment that is required for their particular services. Exams and other services are typically provided in the client’s home.

If you are planning to offer limited or niche services, your list of required equipment may be relatively small. Necessary items may include:

• Scale to weigh pets
• Tools for physical examination: thermometer, stethoscope, otoscope, ophthalmoscope
• Supplies for collecting laboratory samples and administering treatments: syringes, blood collection tubes, fecal sample collection containers, etc.
• Vaccinations (if applicable) and commonly-used injectable medications
• Commonly-used oral medications
• Tests that you may wish to perform at a client’s home (heartworm tests, feline combo tests, etc.)

Some mobile veterinarians provide services similar to a brick-and-mortar practice, operating a full veterinary clinic on wheels. These practices typically operate out of a custom-built, mobile veterinary clinic. While the veterinarian may enter the client’s home, examinations and procedures are typically performed inside the mobile unit.

In many cases, these mobile clinics contain smaller versions of all areas of a brick-and-mortar practice. Equipment may include items such as:

• In-house laboratory and all associated equipment
• Veterinary tables
• Surgery area and all associated surgical supplies
• Kennels and associated cleaning materials

Prior to establishing a mobile practice, you will need to consider which sort of practice you are aiming to create. Will you focus on a niche, or do you intend to offer full-service care? Do you plan to work with clients in their home, or would you prefer to have a mobile unit? These decisions will have a significant impact on your equipment list and budget.

What are the estimated start-up costs?

Many veterinarians are attracted to mobile practice because of low start-up costs. In a 2017 article, Veterinary Business Advisors estimated the cost of starting a mobile practice at approximately $250,000, or 25% of the cost of starting a brick-and-mortar practice.

If you plan to operate out of a mobile veterinary unit, you can expect to spend $200,000 or more for the unit itself. Adding x-ray machines, laboratory equipment, and other supplies must also be included in your budget.

If you plan to work out of your personal vehicle, however, start-up costs are likely to be significantly lower.

What are the estimated earnings?

In order to determine your estimated earnings, you will need to perform a feasibility study. This study projects the revenue that your practice may generate, by looking at historical data from existing practices, local demographics, expected operating hours and scheduling, and other factors. This study is typically performed by, or under the direction of, a business management consultant.

In 2014, LaBoit conducted a study of veterinarians who had purchased LaBoit mobile veterinary units. Based on estimated expenses and revenues reported by these veterinarians, they concluded that a mobile veterinarian seeing five clients per day at an average invoice of $250/client could expect to generate a net profit of approximately $239,000 per year (if working 5 days/week, 50 weeks/year).

While this calculation is based solely on averages and involves a number of assumptions, it does at least provide a starting point from which to work when considering your expected earnings.

What legal requirements govern mobile veterinary practices?

In general, mobile veterinary practices are subject to the same legal requirements as traditional, brick-and-mortar veterinary practices.

First, you must form a business entity and obtain a business license. You may have the option to start your business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, “C” corporation, “S” corporation, limited liability corporation (LLC), or limited liability partnership (LLP), depending on your state. States vary in the corporate structures permitted for veterinarians, so you will want to speak with both a lawyer and an accountant familiar with local laws.

Much like a traditional veterinary practice, you will also be required to obtain a state veterinary license and a controlled drug license. In many states, a veterinary premise permit may also be required. You may be required to have agreements in place with other brick-and-mortar hospitals regarding the provision of emergency care, hospitalization, and specific services such as radiology.

All rules and regulations governing mobile practices in your state can be found by consulting your state practice act or state veterinary medical board.

As a mobile practice, you will also need similar insurance policies to those required in a traditional practice. These policies include liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. Additionally, you will need business/commercial auto insurance to protect your investment in your vehicle and protect you from liability in the case of an accident.

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What are the biggest pitfalls associated with starting a mobile veterinary practice.

One of the most significant challenges in mobile veterinary practice is setting appropriate personal boundaries. As a mobile practitioner, you will be entering your clients’ homes; in many cases, this leads to a more intimate relationship than what would develop in a traditional, brick-and-mortar practice.

Given the intimacy of this relationship, many mobile practitioners find it challenging to set boundaries, and work life often bleeds into home life. Make an effort to separate yourself from work during your personal time, setting established hours during which you will respond to phone calls and handle administrative tasks and established hours “off work” where you are unavailable to your clients.

Remember, it’s far easier to set boundaries when first starting the practice than to make changes later, when your clients have already come to expect unlimited availability.

Mapping a business territory can also be a significant challenge for mobile veterinarians. Set your geographic area too small and risk missing out on valuable clients, especially in the early days of your practice. Set your geographic area too large and risk spending much of your workday driving from location to location, instead of actually serving clients and generating revenue. In many cases, demographic studies can help you determine the geographic area which your practice will cover.

Finally, the success of a mobile practice is significantly enhanced by controlling costs in the early stages. Mobile practitioners often express regrets that they spent far more on medications and expendable supplies than necessary.

It may make sense to carry only a limited inventory of medications and provide written prescriptions to be filled at a human pharmacy whenever possible. Additionally, remember that supplies such as syringes, bandage materials, etc. can often be overnighted from your veterinary distributor; it is often not necessary to maintain a large supply of these items.

Sources and additional reading

• Aumiller, L. 2017. What’s the Buzz: Mobile Practice Is a New Trend for Vets – How Does It Work? Presented at Atlantic Coast Veterinary Conference.
• Aumiller, L. 2017. Tricks, Logistics, Bells, and Whistles: The Scoop on a Successfully Managed Mobile Veterinary Practice Presented at Atlantic Coast Veterinary Conference.
• LaBoit. 2014. What to Expect with a New Mobile Veterinary Practice. Accessed at: https://www.laboit.com/blog/what-to-expect-with-a-new-mobile-veterinary-practice/
• Loria, K. 2017. Veterinary Clinics Go Mobile. Veterinary Practice News. Accessed at: https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/veterinary-clinics-go-mobile/
• Perry, S. 2012. The Pros and Cons of Lauching a Mobile Practice. Veterinary Practice News. Accessed at: https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-lauching-a-mobile-practice/
• Veterinary Business Advisors. 2017. Road Map to Starting a Mobile Practice: Unique Benefits and Challenges. Accessed at: https://veterinarybusinessadvisors.com/road-map-to-starting-a-mobile-practice-unique-benefits-and-challenges/

About the author

Dr. Catherine Barnette, DVM

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Veterinary Clinic Business Template & PDF Example

• September 4, 2024

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful veterinary clinic. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your veterinary clinic’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a veterinary clinic business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the pet industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your veterinary clinic concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our veterinary clinic business plan is designed to encompass all critical elements required for a well-rounded strategic approach. It details the clinic’s operational procedures, marketing tactics, the veterinary market landscape, competitive analysis , management team structure, and financial projections.

• Executive Summary : Provides a concise overview of the Veterinary Clinic’s proposition, emphasizing a comprehensive range of veterinary services, market analysis showing the sector’s growth and demand, the expertise of the management in veterinary medicine and healthcare operations, and a financial strategy that outlines investment opportunities and revenue forecasts.
• Clinic & Location: Describes the clinic’s state-of-the-art facility, designed to ensure a stress-free environment for pets and their owners, including examination rooms, surgical suites, and a retail section for pet care products.
• Services: Details the wide array of services offered, from general check-ups and vaccinations to specialized treatments and emergency care, aimed at providing comprehensive care for pets.
• Key Stats: Presents data highlighting the market size , growth trends, and statistics that underscore the potential and necessity for veterinary services.
• Key Trends: Highlights significant trends such as the growing focus on specialized veterinary services, the adoption of telemedicine, and eco-friendly practices.
• Key Competitors: Analyzes the main competitors in the vicinity, their offerings, and how the clinic’s unique approach and services set it apart.
• SWOT Analysis : Conducts a comprehensive analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to strategically position the clinic.
• Marketing Plan : Details marketing strategies aimed at building brand visibility, attracting new clients, and retaining them through superior service, patient satisfaction programs, and targeted marketing efforts.
• Timeline : Sets forth key milestones and objectives from the clinic’s setup to its launch and key growth phases.
• Management: Highlights the experienced team leading the clinic, from veterinarians to administrative management, emphasizing their roles in ensuring high-quality care and clinic success.
• Financial Plan: Projects the financial outlook for the clinic over the next few years, detailing revenue models from various services, cost management strategies, profit margins, and expected return on investment, ensuring a clear route to financial sustainability and growth.

Veterinary Clinic Business Plan Template (Download)

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your veterinary clinic’s business plan, offering a concise overview of your clinic and its services. It should detail your market positioning, the range of veterinary and pet care services you offer, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations.

This section should also explore how your veterinary clinic will integrate into the local market, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your clinic’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors.

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the clinic’s success.

Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your clinic’s financial plan.

Veterinary Clinic Business Plan Executive Summary Example

Business Overview

In the  business overview , it’s important to detail the key attributes of your veterinary clinic, such as the name, location, facility features, and the range of veterinary services offered. Highlighting what sets your clinic apart in the veterinary market, like specialized services or sustainable practices, is crucial for drawing interest and investment.

Example: “Paws & Claws Veterinary Clinic,” located in the bustling Midtown district, covers 4,000 square feet and is designed for the comfort of pets and their owners. The clinic includes advanced facilities like a surgical suite and an in-house lab, and offers services ranging from routine check-ups to specialized care in oncology and cardiology. A unique aspect of Paws & Claws is its retail section featuring eco-friendly pet products.

Market Overview

This section should analyze the veterinary market’s size, growth trends, and key industry developments. It helps position your clinic within the industry and underlines its potential to meet the evolving demands in veterinary care.

Example: Paws & Claws Veterinary Clinic is entering a market valued at $12 billion, expected to grow at an 8.7% CAGR. The clinic stands out in a market that is increasingly seeking specialized veterinary services and innovative practices like telemedicine. With its comprehensive range of services and 24/7 emergency care, the clinic addresses the needs of a growing pet-owning population.

Management Team

Detailing the management team’s background and roles is vital. This part of the summary should emphasize their experience in veterinary medicine and healthcare operations, highlighting their capability to drive the clinic’s success.

Example: The founders of Paws & Claws, with 15 years of experience in veterinary medicine and 10 years in healthcare operations, lead the clinic. Their combined expertise ensures high standards in animal care and effective clinic management.

Financial Plan

A clear presentation of financial goals and projections is key. This section should include targets for revenue, providing insight into the clinic’s financial health and growth potential.

Example: Paws & Claws Veterinary Clinic aims to achieve $1.8 million in yearly revenue by 2027. The financial strategy is supported by a blend of quality veterinary services, strategic marketing, and community engagement, positioning the clinic for success in a growing veterinary services market.

For a Veterinary Clinic, the Business Overview can be streamlined into two key areas:

Clinic & Location

Highlight the clinic’s welcoming and well-equipped environment designed for animal care, focusing on features that ensure comfort and safety for pets and their owners. Emphasize the clinic’s strategic location, accessible to pet owners, with convenient features like ample parking, and its proximity to pet-friendly amenities, making it an attractive choice for your target clientele.

Veterinary Services & Pricing

Outline the comprehensive range of veterinary services provided, from routine care to specialized treatments, emphasizing any unique offerings or expertise. Detail the competitive pricing structure , reflecting the high-quality care and value offered, and mention any special programs or discounts designed to promote long-term client engagement and pet health.

Industry size & growth

In the Market Overview of your veterinary clinic business plan, begin by assessing the size of the veterinary services industry and its growth potential. This analysis is essential to grasp the market’s breadth and pinpoint opportunities for expansion.

Key market trends

Move on to discuss recent market trends , such as the growing consumer interest in comprehensive pet care, the demand for specialized veterinary services, and the adoption of advanced medical technologies. For instance, highlight the demand for services that address specific pet health issues, alongside the increasing popularity of clinics offering holistic and alternative treatments.

Competitive Landscape

A  competitive analysis  is not just a tool for gauging the position of your veterinary clinic in the market and its key competitors; it’s also a fundamental component of your business plan. This analysis helps identify your veterinary clinic’s unique selling points, essential for differentiating your business in a  competitive  market.

In addition, competitive analysis is integral in laying a solid foundation for your business plan. By examining various operational aspects of your competitors, you gain valuable information that ensures your business plan is robust, informed, and tailored to succeed in the current market environment.

Identifying Your Competitors in the Veterinary Industry

Initiate the analysis by identifying both direct and indirect competitors. Direct competitors may include other veterinary clinics within your immediate vicinity, offering similar services and specialties. However, don’t disregard indirect  competitors like pet grooming  services, online pet healthcare platforms, or even holistic pet care centers, as they cater to similar pet owners’ needs.

Leverage online resources such as Google Maps, Yelp, or specialized directories to map out the locations and gather insights into your competitors. Analyze customer reviews and ratings to discern competitor  strengths and weaknesses . For instance, if “Paws & Claws Veterinary Care” receives commendations for its emergency care services, this signifies a competitive strength you can assess and potentially improve upon in your clinic.

Veterinary Clinic Competitors’ Strategies

Analyzing competitors involves scrutinizing multiple facets:

• Services Offered:  Evaluate the spectrum of services provided by competitors. If a rival clinic emphasizes alternative therapies like acupuncture or offers specialized dental care, this might hint at emerging trends or niche services gaining traction in the market.
• Technological Advancements:  Consider technological integrations and innovations in practice. A clinic like “Modern Pet Wellness” utilizing telemedicine or digital records may appeal to a different segment compared to a clinic focusing solely on traditional treatment methods.
• Pricing Models:  Compare pricing structures to ascertain whether your clinic’s fees align with the market average or if there’s potential to differentiate based on pricing, perhaps by offering bundled service packages or discounts for regular clients.
• Marketing Strategies :  Analyze how competitors market their services. Do they heavily invest in online advertising and community events, or rely on client referrals and testimonials?
• Client Experience:  Assess the overall client experience provided by competitors. For instance, a clinic renowned for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and personalized pet care can gain a competitive edge based on exceptional client satisfaction.
• Operational Efficiency:  Observe if competitors utilize efficient administrative systems or technological tools to enhance operational efficiency, such as appointment scheduling apps or automated reminders.

What’s Your Clinic’s Value Proposition?

Reflect on your veterinary clinic’s  unique value proposition . Perhaps your clinic specializes in exotic pet care, offers comprehensive wellness plans, or is recognized for its compassionate end-of-life care services.

Identify gaps in the market by considering customer feedback and staying abreast of industry trends. For example, the rising demand for integrative medicine or holistic pet care could represent an opportunity if competitors are not meeting this burgeoning need.

Additionally, tailor your clinic’s approach based on the location and community demographics. A clinic in a suburban area might focus on family-centric services, while one in an urban setting might prioritize convenience and extended operating hours.

First, perform a SWOT analysis for the veterinary clinic , identifying Strengths (such as experienced veterinary staff and comprehensive care services), Weaknesses (including potential high operational costs or significant competition), Opportunities (for instance, a growing trend in pet ownership and preventive healthcare), and Threats (such as economic downturns that may reduce spending on non-essential pet services).

Marketing Plan

Next, devise a marketing strategy that details methods to attract and retain pet owners through targeted advertising, promotional offers, an active online presence, and engagement with the local community.

Marketing Channels

Utilize various marketing channels to reach pet owners and create awareness about your veterinary clinic’s services.

Digital Marketing

Leverage digital platforms to engage with pet owners:

• Social Media:  Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to share pet health tips, success stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and client testimonials. Engage with your audience through interactive posts, stories, and live sessions.
• Website and SEO:  Develop a user-friendly website highlighting your services, team expertise, client testimonials, and educational content. Optimize your website for local SEO to improve visibility in search engine results.
• Email Marketing:  Build an email list by offering valuable content, such as newsletters containing pet care advice, promotions, and updates about your clinic’s services and events. Use personalized and informative emails to nurture client relationships.

Local Advertising

Connect with the local community:

• Community Events:  Participate in local pet adoption drives and pet expos, or sponsor animal-related charity events to showcase your clinic’s involvement and commitment to animal welfare.
• Local Partnerships:  Collaborate with pet stores, dog groomers, or animal shelters for cross-promotional opportunities. Offer educational seminars or workshops on pet care in partnership with local businesses.

Promotional Activities

Engage pet owners with attractive offers:

• First Visit Discounts:  Offer discounts on initial consultations or vaccinations to attract new clients to your clinic.
• Referral Programs:  Incentivize existing clients to refer friends and family by offering discounts on future services or a free pet wellness check-up.
• Seasonal Promotions:  Introduce seasonal campaigns like ‘Spring Pet Wellness Check-ups’ or ‘Summer Flea & Tick Prevention Packages’ to address timely pet health concerns.

Sales Channels

Maximize revenue streams and enhance the customer experience through effective  sales channels .

In-Clinic Upselling

Offer additional services or products during appointments:

• Preventive Care Packages:  Suggest comprehensive wellness packages covering vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, and routine check-ups for cost-effective pet care.
• Retail Products:  Display pet care products and supplements in your clinic and educate clients on their benefits. Provide recommendations for at-home pet care routines.

Online Booking and Sales

Provide convenience and accessibility to clients:

• Online Appointment Booking:  Implement an easy-to-use online booking system via your website or social media platforms to schedule appointments efficiently.
• E-Commerce:  Sell pet care products, prescription refills, and specialty foods online through your website or a dedicated online store.
• Telemedicine : Offer virtual consultations for minor pet health concerns, advice on pet behavior, and follow-up appointments for convenience and extended reach.

Membership and Loyalty Programs

Encourage client loyalty and recurring visits:

• Pet Health Memberships:  Introduce membership plans offering discounted or bundled services, including regular check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. These plans can encourage pet owners to commit to ongoing care for their pets.
• Loyalty Rewards:  Establish a digital loyalty program where clients earn points or rewards for each visit, redeemable for discounts on services or products. Rewarding loyal clients can foster long-term relationships and repeat visits.

Strategy Timeline

Finally, establish a detailed timeline that outlines key milestones for the veterinary clinic’s launch, marketing initiatives, client base development, and growth goals, ensuring the business progresses with clarity and intent.

The Management section focuses on the veterinary clinic’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the veterinary clinic towards its financial and operational goals.

For your veterinary clinic business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your veterinary clinic’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your veterinary clinic business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Pet

How to Write a Veterinary Clinic Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a veterinary clinic? If YES, here is a complete sample veterinary clinic business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE . Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a veterinary clinic. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample veterinary clinic marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for veterinary clinics. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

Why Start a Veterinary Clinic?

Veterinary clinics exist to serve the medical needs for various animals such as dogs, cats, birds, fish, iguanas and so on. According to statistics from the American Pets association, there are more than 300 million pets in America, and these pets at one time or the other require medical services which are usually provided for them by their owners who take them to veterinary clinics.

This means that the veterinary clinic is a very lucrative business as there will always be pets to care for. To start this business however, you would need to have some sort of experience at previous veterinary clinics so that the experience of running your own business and caring for animals would not be totally overwhelming.

If you are serious about starting this business, you would need to hire the services of a reputable business consultant who is very knowledgeable in this field, so that they could run a critical analysis on your business concept using various factors to determine if this is a business that would be worth going into. Allowing a business consultant handle this aspect would free you up considerably and allow you focus on other aspects that would be needed to successfully start and run the business.

Regardless of whatever line you are from, as soon as you intend to start a business, you would require a business plan. Below is a sample veterinary business plan;

A Sample Veterinary Clinic Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

This industry is one that includes establishments of licensed veterinary practitioners who do not only provide medical care but also dental and surgical treatments for pets or animals. This industry also includes establishments such as laboratories that provide diagnostic testing services for the establishments of veterinary practitioners.

The veterinary services industry is one according to IBISWorld that has remained resilient from the period of 2005 – 2010, and this was largely due to the fact that pet owners started viewing the expenditures on their pets as of great importance, a view which helped to greatly boost the veterinary service industry in the united states of America.

The veterinary services industry is one that has an annual revenue of $35 billion and had a projected annual growth of 2.9% for the periods between 2011 and 2016. There are more than 48,000 veterinary clinics in the United States of America, employing more than 345,000 people. The market is not really dominated by any major company, as veterinary clinics mainly focused on their regions.

It has been projected that in the coming years, more pet owners will be able to afford costly procedures such as surgery for their pets especially as more pet owners were purchasing pet health insurance. Also, veterinary clinics are likely to receive a boost as pets are starting to live longer which means more trips to the clinics.

According to research from Freedonia, in 2014, the rate at which consumers spent on their pets in the United States reached $33 million, this increase has led to veterinary clinics looking to hire more veterinary technicians to be able to handle the demands.

The growing need by pet owners to treat their pets as companions or family members has seen the industry fare well through the economic recession as compared to other industries.

The veterinary services industry life cycle has been described as being in its growth phase. The Industry Value Added (IVA) which is used as a measure to indicate industry’s contribution to the economy has been pegged to grow at 2.9% between the period of 2011 and 2022. The U.S economy in comparison is expected to grow at 2.2% in the same period.

The advent of new technologies has seen many of the professionals in the human healthcare sector to migrate to veterinary medicine, as the industry continues to grow due to other factors such as pet ownership, availability of advanced diagnostic and surgical procedures as well as the increasing awareness of animal health issues.

2. Executive Summary

Little Haven Veterinary Clinic is a standard veterinary clinic located in Syracuse – New York, USA. We intend to offer standard medical services such as medical examination, diagnosis, treatment and surgery to pets such as cats, dogs, birds, iguanas and other such pets and animals. We intend to offer consultancy and advisory services to our clients as regards their pets.

Our vision is to be recognized for the standard medical practices which we offer and be the go-to clinic for all pet owners residing here in Syracuse, and also around the whole of New York as well.

We are also in business to not only care for pets and generate revenue whilst doing so but to also compete favorably against our competitors. To attain this, we have drafted publicity strategies aimed at ensuring that we have an edge over our competitors.

In order to ensure that we attain our vision as a veterinary clinic we intend to create an enabling environment and also source for and hire competent employees that understand the industry, love pets and are attuned to the company’s vision.  Our employees are the best in the field and are fully committed professionals. Hiring the best employees for us is necessary as we intend to ensure that we get our business structure right so as to have a solid foundation.

Asides from ensuring that our employees work in an enabling or conducive environment, we will also ensure that they are well paid, and also continually train them and carry out periodic performance appraisals that will enhance their skills and increase their productivity for Little Haven Veterinary Clinic.

Our location in Syracuse – New York is very strategic as there are a high number of pet owners living in and around our location. Also our location is very easy to access for our customers both potential and new, as it is located close to a major road.

Most of our employees are well trained in animal behaviour and know how to restrain difficult pets with no harm to themselves, property or the pets themselves.

Finally, our owners Elena Johansen, DVM and John Edwards, DVM are two experienced veterinary doctors who have worked in several veterinary hospitals here in New York and have therefore garnered administrative and practical experiences in surgery, dental care, reproductive issues as well as skin disorders amongst others, necessary to run their own practice. Elena has been practicing for over 15 years, while John has been practicing for over 10 years.

3. Our Products and Services

At Little Haven Veterinary Clinic, we intend to offer a full range of medical services to our customers – the pet owners and their pets. Our location in New York, where there are a high number of pet owners, will see us having no problem in generating the required revenue from the different services we intend to offer.

Our aim at not only concentrating on our core services but offering additional services is so as to be able to attract more of the target market into coming to our veterinary clinic. Asides the fact that we would be attracting a whole lot of customers, we also would be boosting our revenue base, and ensure that we have a robust bottom line.

We however would offer services that are fully in line with the laws in the medical industry for pets as well as legal laws of the United States of America. Some of the services that we intend to offer at Little Haven Veterinary Clinic are;

• General Examination
• Internal medicine and surgery
• Reproductive Services
• Orthopedics
• Skin Disorders
• Dental Care
• Geriatric Care
• Consultancy Service and Trainings

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to ensure that we are recognized by our offering of a full range of medical services to pets in this area, and providing the highest standards in veterinary medicine.
• In order to fulfill our vision, we intend to ensure that we hire professional and caring staff that would provide personalized services to our customers – the pet owners and the pets themselves.

Our Business Structure

Because we intend to run a veterinary clinic that would ensure that we provide standardized services at all times, we therefore know how important it is for us to ensure that we get our business structure right from the beginning, as this would ensure that we have a solid foundation with which to run our business.

Right from our owners to our management staff and other staff, we intend to ensure that we are all attuned to the vision of the company and that we are willing to work hard in ensuring that we attain the goals and objectives of the business. This is why we would also ensure that we source and recruit only those that are right for our business, and are committed to keeping our corporate culture.

On our part, we intend to ensure that we pay our staff well and that they have a welfare package that is comparable to other similar start-up businesses in the industry. We would also ensure that our employees work in an enabling and conducive environment and that they are continuously undergo training to enhance their professional skills, thereby resulting to higher productivity for the company.

The business structure which we intend building at Little Haven Veterinary Clinic is;

Managing Director

Veterinary Doctor

Admin and Human Resources Manager

Purchasing Manager

Accountants

Marketing Team

Customer Executive Officer

Security Guard

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• In charge of making strategic decisions on behalf of the clinic
• Drafts the budget to be used by the clinic with the aid of the accountant
• Ensures that all policies are effectively adhered to by all the employees
• Checks and examine all pets that are brought into the clinic
• Writes out diagnosis and administers necessary drugs to ailing pets
• Carries out surgery and other specialized care on pets
• Sources for and recruits competent employees on behalf of the clinic
• Ensures that employees are adequately trained and paid
• Carries out other administrative functions that ensures that the clinic runs smoothly
• Procures all the necessary equipment for the veterinary clinic
• Sources for reliable vendors and distributors of pet medical equipment
• Drafts and reviews purchasing contract for vendors and distributors
• Balances all the books pertaining to the organization and ensures that they reconcile with that of the bank
• Prepares tax documents on behalf of the clinic and submits to tax authorities
• Drafts clinic’s budgets together with the owners of the company
• Conducts a thorough market research to find out new possible target markets for the clinic
• Carries out direct marketing on behalf of the clinic
• Drafts, reviews and modifies marketing strategies on behalf of the clinic
• In charge of answering inquiries from customers as well as resolving issues promptly
• Keeps an accurate customer database on behalf of the clinic
• Carries out any other duties as might be assigned by the admin manager
• Ensures that the premises is always secured during and after work hours
• Checks security gadgets and ensure that they are in working order
• Reviews security tips and ensures that the employees are duly informed of new security issues
• Drives veterinary doctors for house calls
• Ensures that the medical equipment in the vehicle are always in place
• Carries out light repairs and general maintenance on the vehicle
• Ensure the premises is kept clean before work resumes
• Uses the right cleaning solutions in cleaning surgery and lab rooms
• Stock up on cleaning supplies and carries out any other duties as assigned by the admin manager

6. SWOT Analysis

The veterinary clinic we intend to run is intended to be a standard one, and to ensure that we achieve this standard, we have hired a business consultant to help us look into our Business model and determine if we are likely to make it in this industry and what our chances at competing with others as well as generating revenue were.

The business consultant in carrying out a critical evaluation of our business concept made use of the SWOT ( Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Strength ) analysis so as to be able to give us an objective report. Below is the report from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Little Haven Veterinary Clinic;

There are several strengths that are available in this market such as the high growth rate of this industry, especially as we are still in the growth phase of the industry’s life cycle. Other strengths are the professionals we intend to recruit who are very competent and also experienced and knows what it takes to handle pets as well as ensure that the clinic reaches its desired goals and objectives.

Also our owners, Elena Johansen, DVM and John Edwards, DVM both have a collective long years of practice in this industry and will bring their experience and expertise to bear for the clinic.

The only weakness that is in this market is that we are likely in a saturated market which will make us have to aggressively compete to gain the attention of our potential customers. We however have the strategies in place to be able to assure that we stand out from other veterinary clinics.

• Opportunities

There are several opportunities that are available to us in this market, such as a growing demand for medical services from pet owners who see such expenses as vital for their pets, a growing economy which will allow more people to be able to afford to pay for advanced medical services for their pets.

The threats we are likely to face while starting or running our veterinary clinic will stem from government regulations, which might infringe on how we run our practice here in New York. Another threat we are likely to face are technological problems that might stem from our equipment. Since we have the experience from working in veterinary clinics, we know that we can easily combat these threats whenever they surface.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

There has been a general increase in the way American care for their pets. According to a statistical survey that was carried out by the American Pet Association (APA) in 2015, more than 65% of Americans owned at least one pet, which meant there were about 300 million pets existing in the Whole United States of America.

Also according to further research, cities such as California and New York had the highest number of pet owners, which has made the two cities a thriving place to run a veterinary clinic business. The medical services provided for pets are seen as a way to keep them alive, healthy and happy.

Veterinary clinics often have strict laws guiding the practice as factors such as zoning laws and laws on the facilities used in the clinic (such as light lumens, surgery suite, ventilation systems and non-porous surfaces) that would need to be put into consideration. This is why almost no one turns their home into a veterinary clinic.

The veterinary clinic business is also not one that favors house calls as a number of things can go wrong during house calls like limited supplies in handling whatever problems might occur and a liability suit, which might come from damage by the affected pet to the owner’s property or the owners.

There are basic equipment that every veterinary clinic must own either those working from home or leasing a facility. The medical and diagnostic equipment are blood pressure monitor, digital scale, traveling centrifuge, portable digital X-ray, portable ultrasound machine and thermography camera.

Also most veterinary clinics now own their own in-house blood analyzers. Asides, from the above equipment, technology has also come to bear a lot in the veterinary practice as most clinics are able to offer high standardized and state-of-the-art service due largely to medical technology.

8. Our Target Market

When it comes to taking care of their pets, Americans have been known to go all the way, which is why owning and running a veterinary clinic is one way at not only caring for pets but also generating revenue from the care. Our location here in Syracuse – New York is strategic because we are very close to the suburbs, where almost everyone who lives there owns one sort of pets, which is our major target market will be the households.

However to be sure that we are right on our target market, we have decided to conduct a market survey that will help us truly determine who our target markets are, how to understand their needs and what they expected from us. From the results of the survey, it would seem that we are in the business to provide veterinary services to the following groups of people;

• Business People
• Corporate Executives
• Celebrities of all sorts
• Sports men and women
• Dog walkers and trainers
• Kennel Stores

Our competitive advantage

Even though our aim of starting a veterinary clinic is to ensure that we help keep pets alive, healthy and extend their lives, we are also in business to favorably compete against our competitors in the marketplace, and for this we have several competitive strategies to ensure we have and maintain an edge over our competitors.

The first thing we intend to do is ensure we provide a state-of-the-art and standardized medical facilities for our various customers – the pet owners, and this will make us the go-to veterinary clinic here in Syracuse – New York.

We will ensure that we hire only competent employees especially those with vast experience to work at our veterinary clinic, because not only will they understand the business but they will also use their expertise in ensuring that we attain our intended goals and objectives as a clinic.

We also intend to offer a wide variety of services so as not only to boost our revenue base but also attract more customers from our target market, thereby giving us an edge over other competitors.

Lastly, as we intend to hire competent and experienced employees, we will ensure that they are paid well and are working in an enabling and conducive environment. We will also see to it that they are adequately trained to enhance their skills and increase productivity for the company.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Little Haven Veterinary Clinic has been established with the aim of generating revenue and also maximizing profit in the pets/medical industry in the United States of America. In generating maximum revenue for our business, we intend to offer different services that will shore up our revenue base.

Therefore below are the following areas where we intend to generate revenue from at Little Haven Veterinary Clinic;

10. Sales Forecast

The fact that there are more than enough pet owners in the United States of America, with more than half of the owners caring for their pets means there will always be a surge in demand for medical services from pet owners for their pets.

Our strategic location in New York has us quite optimistic in not only meeting our revenue target but exceeding it in the second year of business; this is especially as New York has been recognized as one of the two top cities where pet owners are densely located.

However in order to ensure that our sales projections were realistic enough, we conducted a critical examination of this industry in order to analyze our chances of success, which led us into the verifiable data presented below. It should be noted that the data for our sales projections were gathered particularly based on similar start-ups in Syracuse – New York.

Below is the projected sales revenue for Little Haven Veterinary Clinic based in Syracuse – New York;

• First Fiscal Year-: $450,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $900,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $1,800,000

N.B: The above sales projections were done based on verifiable and accurate data that was obtained from the pet industry. As at the time of conducting the analysis, certain assumptions such as location of the veterinary clinic, lack of any major competitor offering same service in same location, and the state of the economy were taken into consideration.

Should there be a change in the listed assumptions, there would likely be an impact on the sales projections, which could cause the figures to increase or decrease.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Marketing for any business is very vital as it not only generates money but also ensures that the company gains publicity while making money. To however have effective marketing strategies, we intend to conduct a market survey that will help us understand the market we are going into and how best to penetrate this market.

We used reliable data in carrying out this market survey as we wanted to ensure that we get an accurate result that will have an impact on our strategies.

Because we wanted to be able to concentrate on other parts of the business, we consulted with a reputable marketing consultant who not only has a good knowledge of the market and our industry, but also understands certain peculiarities that will allow for effective marketing strategies for Little Haven Veterinary Clinic.

Our marketing teams have also been empowered to ensure that strategies that are drafted are in line with our vision as a company. They have been also empowered to modify or review strategies that aren’t working and tweak them for the overall benefit of Little Haven Veterinary Clinic.

We are inducting technology into our marketing techniques and so will deploy our social media platforms, our websites and several other forums so as to be able to adequately market our services to our target market. Below are the marketing strategies we intend to adopt at Little Haven Veterinary Clinic;

• Place adverts in local newspapers, pets and lifestyle magazines as well as on radio and television stations
• Print and distribute fliers in target areas where there are a large number of pet owners and lovers
• Use direct word of mouth marketing
• Launch an interactive web site to interact with and inform customers of our services
• Use our social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to market our services
• Ask loyal customers to refer us and offer them incentives in return

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Publicity is very important for every business that intends to favorably compete with its competitors in the market place. Publicity is not only a means of generating awareness about a business or its products and services; it also helps the business through the increased promotional activities to generate more income for itself, thereby boosting its bottom line.

At Little Haven Veterinary Clinic, we intend to ensure that we draft effective strategies that will help us thoroughly promote and advertise our business.

Because we intend to fully focus on caring for pets, we would hire a reputable brand consultant here in New York that would help us draft effective publicity and advertising strategies that we would use in attaining our vision and objectives here in Syracuse – New York.

Also, these publicity and advertising strategies will be used to positively communicate our brand to our various customers. Listed below are some of the publicity and advertising strategies we intend to use at Little Haven Veterinary Clinic;

• Using social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to promote our veterinary clinic
• Ensure that we paste our fliers and also distribute our handbills in various strategic locations
• Place adverts for our veterinary clinic in local newspapers and pet and lifestyle magazines, as well as on radio and television stations
• Sponsor pet related events and programs in our local community
• Place attractive billboards about pets in strategic locations all around New York City
• Attend pet events and trade fairs to network and increase awareness about Little Haven Veterinary Clinic

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Setting the right rates for our services is very important to us because not only do we want to give our customers fair rates that would make them come back to our clinic time and time again, we would also have to ensure that the rates we fix have covered our overhead and running expenses so that we do not run at a loss. Also, in fixing our prices, we would endeavor to make them fall within the ranges of what our competitors around us were offering their clients.

In order to attract more customers to our veterinary clinic here in Syracuse – New York, we intend to lower our rates in the first 3 – 6 months of business. This will be seen as part of our promotion strategy aimed to also increase awareness about our veterinary clinic even to potential customers. Therefore strategies are underway to ensure that our low rates for these periods will not cause our business to run at a loss.

• Payment Options

Little Haven Veterinary Clinic is aware of the fact that our different customers due to their preferences will prefer different payment options to be made available to them. Therefore the payment options that will be made available to all our different customers are;

• Payment via cash
• Payment via check
• Payment via Credit Card
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment via online payment portal

The above payment platforms were carefully chosen for us by our banker who has assured us that these platforms will not only be convenient for our customers but will run without hitches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

The capital used in starting a veterinary clinic depends on what scale the owner intends to start off with, this means that capital might be high for some and low for others. Regards on what scale you intend to start a veterinary clinic, getting standard equipment, leasing a place and paying employee salaries are what generally takes a bulk of the capital.

Other factors like the location and how many staff you intend to get might vary depending on your budget. Therefore, the key areas where we intend to spend the bulk of our capital on are;

• Total fee for registering the business in the United States of America – $750
• Licenses, permits, accounting services as well as other legal expenses – $4,250
• Cost of hiring a business consultant – $2,000
• Insurance coverage ( general liability, property insurance and workers’ compensation ) – $2,000
• Cost of acquiring medical and surgical equipment – $150,000
• Cost of procuring lab equipment – $40,000
• Cost of leasing and renovating a facility for at least 1 year – $50,000
• Cost of setting up a waiting/examination room for pets – $30,000
• Cost of getting kennel equipment – $14,000
• Marketing promotions expenses (Promotion expenses for grand launch and general promotion and marketing expenses) – $6,000
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, utility bill payments) – $150,000
• Other start-up expenses (stationeries, phones, computers, furniture) – $5,000
• Cost of purchasing a medical mobile van – $30,000
• Cost of launching a website – $1,000
• Cost of throwing a party to launch our business – $5,000
• Miscellaneous – $10,000

From the above breakdown, we would need an estimate of $500,000 in order to successfully start and run our veterinary clinic here in Syracuse – New York. The above stated amount will cover leasing, set-up of the veterinary clinic as well as pay employees and utility bills for a period of 3 months, when the business would have made enough revenue to sustain itself and its operations.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Little Haven Vet Clinic Business

Little Haven Veterinary Clinic is a business owned and run by two very experienced veterinary doctors; Elena Johansen, DVM and John Edwards, DVM. Both have worked in different veterinary hospitals before here in New York and so are gearing to run their own practice.

We do not intend to seek for an external investor, which is why we have decided to restrict the sourcing of their capital to 4 sources. The 4 areas where we intend to generate our start-up capital from are;

• From personal savings
• Soft loans from friends and family members
• Loan from SBA
• Loan from commercial bank

N.B: From the above four sources we were able to generate the following amount; $50,000 from personal savings, $50,000 soft loan from family members and friends, 0,000 loan from SBA, and $300,000 loan from the bank. All the monies are already in our account and as soon as we tie up a full loose ends we would hit the ground running.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

We have drafted effective sustainability and expansion strategies to ensure that we not only make profit and compete favorably with our competitors, but that our bottom line is healthy so as to sustain us in such a way that we can grow and expand at the pace we want.

The strategies we intend to use in sustaining and expanding our business are; ensuring that we hire competent employees, innovating and expanding our services so as to have a competitive advantage as well as ensuring we retain a huge number of our customers.

As a business that believes in having the right business structure, we know how important this is especially if we intend to sustain our business. It is therefore not out of place for us to source for only competent employees that we are sure understand our core values and are willing to work hard in ensuring that we attain our objectives as a company.

Even though we intend to offer core medical services in our veterinary clinic, we also intend to other services as well to our target market. This will not only bring in increased customers and revenue to our business but it will also ensure that we have a competitive advantage over our competitors in the same industry.

Finally, we know how important customers are to a business, for without customers our business is going to die, which is why we intend to treat our customers fairly, which extends to their pets as well. Our customer care executives have been trained to handle agitated pet owners and pets effectively and our veterinary doctors as well as other staff understand the need of treating the customers right always.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – wholesale suppliers / merchants: In Progress
• Purchase of trucks: Completed

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How to start a mobile vet clinic and what to consider.

For years, veterinarians have operated mobile vet clinics and traveled to farms to take care of large animals. Now veterinarians are traveling to homes to care for animals of all sizes like dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and horses. Veterinarians like this type of practice due to the freedom it offers them and it is also more affordable to operate than a brick-and-mortar stationary clinic . Busy pet owners like the convenience of having their veterinarian come to them.

No longer do pet owners have to struggle with their skittish pet who balks at riding in the car or for their cat who fights to avoid getting in a cat carrier.

There are pros and cons to starting a mobile vet clinic. Before you venture into this way of practicing veterinary medicine, there are questions you need to ask yourself. If you decide this is for you, we have some advice.

Ask Yourself Some Questions

There are some basic lifestyle questions to ask yourself before you take the leap into starting your own mobile vet clinic. For example:

• Are you motivated to do the work necessary to take the leap into owning a mobile vet clinic? You will work long days and possibly six days a week to start in order to generate your desired income and to get your clinic known to your target market.  
• Are you ready for the physical and emotional demands? The in-office visit is usually a 20 to 30-minute appointment. The mobile practice appointment can be much longer. During this time, you need to be personable and able to engage in small talk and friendly conversation with the pet owner. Your duties may be physically demanding if you do not have an assistant to help you. You will be getting in and out of your vehicle many times a day and carrying heavy equipment. Be prepared to get frustrated and stressed when you get stuck in traffic and are late for your appointment. Driving a large vehicle around town can in itself be exhausting. One veterinarian has expressed that the downsides of owning the mobile vet clinic are tempered by being able to play fetch with your patients after you have just examined them or gotten them up to speed on their vaccinations.

If you still want to pursue owning a mobile vet clinic, there are some steps you need to take.

Develop a Business Plan

The success of any new business depends on having a solid business plan in place before seeking out a business start-up loan or opening the doors to the public. Some main considerations to follow include:

Defining your business model .

You need to make some decisions about this:

• Do you want your veterinary practice to be exclusively limited to your mobile operation, or do you want to combine it with a stationary practice?
• Do you want to embark on this venture alone, or join with another veterinarian who has a stationary practice? You can each do what you like the best and consider taking turns with one using the mobile vet clinic while the other works in the stationary facility.
• Do you want to travel to the homes of your clients, or set up your clinic in a parking lot of a high traffic area such as a shopping center or apartment building? If you want to set up in parking lots, what licenses and permits will you need?
• What type of care will you provide? Do you want a full-service mobile vet clinic or one where you just do basic vaccinations and preventive care and refer other pet health problems to a stationary clinic for more extensive procedures?
• You will want to arrange with pharmacists to fill your prescriptions.

Determining your business structure .

The rules for what type of business structure you can form vary from state to state. For example, in California, veterinarians are not allowed to form limited liability corporations (LLCs) or limited liability partnerships (LLPs) but may form other types of corporations. Some states require mobile veterinarians to coordinate with a local veterinary hospital for animals that may require hospitalization or emergency services that cannot be provided by the mobile vet clinic.

Dental & Medical Counsel can assist you in determining the right business structure for your mobile vet clinic . This will provide you with the best structure that will provide you with tax advantages and the protection you need from liabilities and corporate debts.

Name your business and design a logo.

Choose a name for your mobile vet clinic that will be easy for clients to remember. Check to be sure the name is available and unique so it will not be confused with other mobile clinics. Then design a logo. It is important to work with legal counsel to federally trademark your practice name and logo.

You will place the name of your business, your phone number, and your logo on the side of your vehicle. You want the name and logo to be eye-catching and memorable. You will get business from pet owners who see your truck/van parked while you are caring for your patients. This mobile billboard may be the best way of all to advertise your services. Identify your target market and service area.

This involves several considerations:

• Do you want to treat small animals who are household pets, exotic animals in nature preserves, farm animals?
• What is the scope of your service area ? Do you want to concentrate on one specific area of your community or cut a wide swath throughout your county and perhaps neighboring counties? Keep in mind mileage, fuel expenses, traffic problems, and the time it will take you to get from one appointment to another one.
• Perhaps you can arrange your schedule to be in one part of your community or county on one or two days of the week. Then rotate and spend two days in another location. For example, you could visit the northern part of your county on Mondays and Wednesdays and other parts of the county on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Perhaps reserve Fridays for where you seem to be needed the most.
• You may discover that working weekends works well for you and your pet owners. This may be necessary in the first few months while you are establishing your business and in order to meet your financial goals.

The beauty of the mobile vet clinic is that you can schedule your workweek for your own convenience and for how you find it generates the best income. You have the freedom to analyze where you need to be to generate the patient base and income that you need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that between 2020 and 2030, the need for veterinarians will increase by 17 percent, which is much faster than other occupations. This is a good time for you to capitalize on this projection and start your own mobile vet clinic.

Learn About Start-Up Costs for Your Mobile Vet Clinic

Purchase of a vehicle . You will need to purchase a van, enclosed truck, or trailer. The vehicle may be from 18 to 30 feet long and one that can be specially equipped according to your specifications.

Equipping the vehicle. According to Dispomed , a manufacturer of veterinary equipment, what you will need to start up depends on what niche you are going to focus on. Some mobile vets limit their practice to preventive care, vaccinations, and wellness exams. Others focus on providing pet hospice and euthanasia services. Still, others provide the same full services as those provided by vets who have brick-and-motor stationary practices.

Basic equipment for all niches should include:

• Commonly used oral medicines.
• Scale to weigh pets
• Supplies for collecting laboratory samples and administering treatments: syringes, blood collection tubes, fecal sample collection containers, etc.
• Test supplies like heartworm tests, feline combo tests, and others.
• Tools for physical examination: thermometer, stethoscope, otoscope, ophthalmoscope
• Vaccinations and commonly-used injectable medications.

If you plan to offer a full-service mobile vet clinic, you may also need:

• A laboratory and equipment to conduct blood and other diagnostic tests.
• A surgery area and all associated surgical supplies.
• X-ray machine.

The cost of the vehicle plus equipping it may be close to $300,000. According to an article published a few years ago in Veterinary Practice News, the start-up cost for a mobile vet clinic is about one-fourth of the cost of opening your own veterinary practice in a traditional stationary brick-and-mortar location.

You will also need basic supplies, including disposable goods. You will need to arrange with pharmacies to fill your prescriptions. There will be costs for required licenses and permits.

Expected Ongoing Costs  

As with any practice, whether a stationary or mobile one, there will be ongoing costs. Some costs to expect when operating a mobile vet clinic include:

• Payments for the vehicle.
• Service and gasoline for the vehicle.
• Insurance for the vehicle. Be sure to get commercial auto insurance. A standard auto insurance policy will not cover your mobile vet clinic. Be sure you will be covered if an employee drives the vehicle.
• You need a business owner insurance policy (BOP) to cover the equipment and supplies you will have on board with you.
• All veterinarians need malpractice insurance.
• Cost of replacing supplies.
• Cost and monthly payment for one or more cell phone lines.
• Cost of advertising you need, in addition to the billboard you will be driving around town. This includes business cards and flyers you leave with other businesses that may cater to your clientele.
• Salary and benefits for your assistant.
• Payroll and income taxes.
• Accountant fees. You need to consult with an accountant who specializes in professional practices like your vet clinic and other types of healthcare practices.

The accountant will know which expenses you can deduct which may save you a lot of money. For example, if you only use your vehicle for your business, you will not deduct your mileage on your tax form but will claim depreciation of the vehicle. If you use the vehicle at times that are not for business, then you will deduct your business mileage.

Financing Options

You will likely need a business loan to finance the start-up of your mobile vet clinic. The first step in obtaining financing is to have a well-prepared business plan.

Loans are available from the Small Business Administration (SBA). Also, there are veterinary lenders, like Bank of America and Wells Fargo. It is expected that it will take about six months for your mobile vet clinic to generate a positive cash flow.  

Establishing a Fee Schedule

In addition to the traditional fee schedule, you will establish to be competitive with the stationary vet clinics, you will charge a fee solely for the house-call visit. This may be anywhere from $50 to $100 based on the number of miles you must drive, the size of the animal, and the difficulty in providing the necessary care at home.

Develop a Marketing Plan

Although driving around with your mobile clinic name, logo, and phone number on the side of your vehicle is a necessary part of your marketing plan, you need to do more. Some recommendations include:

• Customize the vehicle so you have the greatest billboard type advertising impact with the vital information clearly and attractively featured.
• Develop a website where you include the types of animals you care for, your pricing, service area, clinic schedule, and an opportunity for clients to make their appointments. Make sure you have a contact page.
• Establish social media accounts that will raise awareness of your clinic and generate more client appointments. Social media exposure is in addition to your website, not a replacement for it.
• Leave your business card with pet service providers like pet sitters and dog walkers.
• Connect with mobile groomers and work out a reciprocal recommendation agreement. This is a great resource since the groomer’s clients are already using at-home pet services.
• Find veterinarians in whom you have confidence who have stationary practices so you can send them referrals. They, in return, will likely send you referrals.

Evaluate Your Need for an Assistant

If you think you can do this by yourself, think again. Most all veterinarians with mobile clinics do so with a vet tech with them. You need this person to help in many ways. For example, the assistant or vet tech will:

• Provide administrative help by answering the phone, returning phone calls, scheduling, invoicing, and collecting and applying for payments.
• Assist you when needed with restraining animals and performing procedures.
• Help you with driving and navigating, which will reduce your own stress and fatigue.

Check on State and Local Rules

Generally, mobile vet clinics are subject to the same legal requirements as for a brick-and-motor stationary practice. You still need to make sure you are complying with all the laws of your state concerning licensure and practice requirements. You can find this information by checking with your state veterinary medical board.

You can also learn specific state rules and regulations by researching the American Association of Mobile Veterinary Practitioners website. You must be a member of this organization in order to use its database.

Each state has different requirements. For your mobile vet clinic, you will most likely be required to have:

• State veterinary license.
• Business license.
• DEA license.
• A controlled substance license is required in some states.

Learn How Dental & Medical Counsel Helps Veterinarians

At Dental & Medical Counsel, we assist healthcare professionals, including veterinarians, in establishing their medical practices. We offer a complimentary consultation with attorney Ali Oromchian .  Contact us to schedule a complimentary call to see how we can help you in your new venture.

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111 Deerwood Road, Suite 340 San Ramon, CA 94583 Phone: 925-999-8200 Fax: 925-884-1725 [email protected]

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How to Start a Mobile Veterinary Business

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As a veterinarian, the work you do is invaluable. You offer life-saving services to pets in need. But what happens when a pet owner can’t make it to your brick-and-mortar clinic? Or worse, what if the pet itself can’t move without causing the situation to worsen?

That’s where mobile vet services save the day.

Not only are mobile vets convenient for pets and pet owners—offering unparalleled services that show up at pet owners’ doorsteps—but being a mobile veterinarian or offering mobile veterinary services is an incredible opportunity to generate substantially more income as well as better control your schedule.

Want to get this show on the road? If you’re considering starting a mobile veterinary business, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down the how step-by-step, then we’ll explain the why . 

How Do Mobile Vets Work? 

Mobile vets alleviate the stress associated with providing pets the essential healthcare services they need by bringing the exam room directly to their homes. 

For pet parents, mobile veterinary services: 

• Allow for easier scheduling 
• Eliminate the need to leave the home 
• Provide care to pets with limited mobility 
• Reduce the anxiety pets may experience when traveling in the car or sitting in a crowded veterinary waiting room  

Due to their convenience, mobile veterinary services have grown in popularity among pet owners and become a client-friendly way for veterinarians to boost their income. 

A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start Your Mobile Vet Business 

Before jumping aboard the mobile veterinary train (or rather, the mobile veterinary van ), you’ll need to consider two facets to starting your business:

• General business creation – General business creation refers to the basics of starting your own business. This includes creating a business plan, filing paperwork, and obtaining proper permits. 
• Industry-specific requirements – This facet of starting a business refers to obtaining the industry-specific equipment your business needs to operate. 

To start your journey on the road to small business ownership, let’s break down the step-by-step processes of general business creation. 

Step 1: Build a Business Plan

Your business plan is your roadmap; it’ll help you plan out your route to success, ensure you reach your career goals, and prevent any financial mishaps. 

A thorough business plan will take into account:

• Your expenses – Before starting any business, determine your startup costs, as well as your ongoing expenses. This not only allows you to calculate your budget, but it also helps you set prices for your services. 
• Your target market – For a mobile veterinary business, your target market are pet owners who avoid the vet due to time constraints, distance, or stress. To best serve this market, you can plan out the hours and days you’ll work, the areas you’ll serve, and the calming techniques you’ll utilize to create a relaxing and enjoyable experience for your patients. 
• Your brand – Choosing a name for your company and a voice for your brand gives your business its own identity. It helps distinguish your business from others in your industry and allows your customers to get to know you before they schedule an appointment. 

Step 2: Form an LLC or Register as a Sole Proprietorship

Once you have a plan for your business, you need to set up a structure. Two of the most common types of business structures are limited liability companies (LLC) and sole proprietorships. 

To decide which is right for you, consider the following: 

• Limited liability company – An LLC sets your business apart from you as an individual. While you may be the creator of the LLC, you can also choose to share ownership with business partners and appoint a manager to handle day-to-day operations. The separation an LLC provides also allows for personal liability protection, which ensures your personal assets can’t be touched in the event of a lawsuit or debt collection.  
• Sole proprietorship – With a sole proprietorship, you and your business are one entity. You’re the sole owner and operator, and are entitled to 100% of the profits. However, this also means that you’re responsible for 100% of the liability. Often, sole proprietorships are ideal for low-risk businesses that anticipate smaller client bases. 

Step 3: Apply for an EIN

An employer identification number (EIN) is what allows businesses to register for taxes. While EINs aren’t necessary for sole proprietorships with no employees, they can nevertheless provide a number of other benefits. 

With an EIN, you can:

• Hire employees
• Open a business bank account
• Build business credit
• Reduce your risk of identity theft by using your EIN rather than your social security number

Step 4: Obtain Necessary Permits 

In order to legally provide medical service and treatment to your canine clientele and feline friends, you’ll need to obtain a state veterinary license and controlled drug license. Depending on your local and state mobile business requirements, you may also need a permit for the veterinary vehicle itself. 

To find out more about the specific permits required in your area, contact your state’s veterinary medical board and small business association. 

Extra Steps Worth Considering 

After completing the four steps of general business creation, you’ll be an official, registered, and operating business. But don’t break out the treats just yet. While the following steps aren’t necessary to creating your business, you may find them helpful in the long run: 

• Create a business bank account – Separating your business account from your personal account can make it easier for you to file taxes, build business credit, and keep accurate banking records. 
• Set up business insurance – As a mobile veterinarian, you’ll spend the majority of your day on the road. With commercial auto insurance, you can ensure both you and your vehicle are protected in the event of an accident. In addition to auto insurance, you may also want to consider general liability insurance (which covers bodily injury and property damage), as well as professional liability insurance (which protects you financially in the event a client sues you). 
• Market your services – Aside from using your veterinary vehicle as a mobile billboard itself, you can also create a business website or business social media accounts to promote your new business and grow your client base. 

What Are the Costs of Mobile Veterinary Businesses? 

Although you can’t put a price on alleviating pet anxiety through the tail waggin’ comforts of mobile services, you can put a price on starting a business. And you should. By determining the upfront and ongoing costs of creating your mobile veterinary business, you can guarantee long-term success.

Upfront Costs

When starting a mobile veterinary business, the majority of your upfront costs are going to come from the vehicle itself. To that end, Wag’n Tails offers three affordable vehicle options, each boasting unique capabilities, for those who want to break into the mobile pet care industry. 

These vehicles include:

• Elite Well Pet Vet – The Elite Well Pet Vet is Wag’n Tails’ largest mobile vet clinic, with enough room to fit everything you need including a bathroom!.
• Supreme Well Pet Vet – While smaller than the Elite Well Pet Vet, this Mercedes-Benz sprinter conversion nevertheless boasts cutting edge technology and enough spaciousness for a veterinarian and technician to work comfortably. 
• Dyna Well Pet Vet – Built on the Ford Transit, the Dyna Well Pet Vet is perfect for those looking for affordability and durability. It is our most popular vehicle with customers.

Depending on which model you choose, you can expect to pay between $85,000 and $120,000 to purchase a vehicle. Leasing is also an option.

Aside from vehicle costs, you’ll also need to budget for your industry-specific business expenses. For mobile veterinary services, these can include: 

• Equipment (e.g. X-ray, ultrasound, dental, lab etc.)
• Examination tools, such as stethoscopes and thermometers
• Supplies for collecting laboratory samples 
• Medications
• Tests, including heartworm tests and feline combo tests 

Fortunately, all three Wag’n Tails models come equipped with a stainless steel examination table, an examination stool, a digital pet scale, a refrigerator for medications, and plenty of secure storage space. 

Ongoing Costs

Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar clinics—which require monthly rent and utility payments, in addition to building maintenance costs— veterinary vehicles boast minimal ongoing expenses. 

Aside from vehicle purchase or lease costs, mobile vets typically pay for:

• Fuel to drive from client to client 
• Insurance for the vehicle
• Veterinary equipment and supplies

While these costs will impact your business plan, they’ll still be far less than costs required to upkeep a brick-and-mortar veterinary clinic. 

Once you’ve determined your ongoing costs, you can set prices for your services and create a schedule that ensures you not only meet your monthly expenses, but you far exceed them. Because mobile services provide customers with added convenience, mobile vets are able to charge substantially higher rates than vets working in a brick-and-mortar clinic (on average 30% more). 

What Are the Benefits of Starting a Mobile Veterinary Business? 

As a veterinarian, your career comes with the built-in benefit of providing life-saving care to countless animals. But by starting a mobile veterinary business, you can also experience benefits such as: 

• Expanding your services – With a mobile vet business, you can expand the reach of your helping hands and serve more clients than you could in a traditional brick-and-mortar practice. 
• Increasing your income – With a larger client base, reduced ongoing costs, and the ability to price your services higher than at a brick-and-mortar clinic, you’ll see an increase in profits. 
• Setting your own schedule – When you start your own business, you become your own boss. That means you make the rules, set the schedule, and reap the rewards. Most mobile veterinarians report a more balanced and higher quality of life.
• Serving animals with limited mobility or emergency needs – When an animal needs medical attention, but isn’t able to be moved or transported to a clinic, you can save the day by bringing the clinic directly to their front door. 

Jump Start Your Mobile Vet Journey with Wag’n Tails 

Now that you’re equipped with the how and why of starting your own mobile veterinary business, the only question left to ask is: when?

With Wag’n Tails, you can start your mobile veterinary journey today. 

Our best of breed veterinary vehicles and flexible financing options make it easy for you to break into this increasingly popular industry and deliver care to our most loyal companions. Don’t wait any longer to put your mobile veterinary dreams into motion, with Wag’n Tails. Contact us today!

Truic. How to Start a Mobile Vet Business. https://howtostartanllc.com/business-ideas/mobile-vet-business

Dispomed. Mobile Veterinary Care: What You Need to Know Before Starting Your Own Practice on Wheels. https://www.dispomed.com/mobile-veterinary-care-what-you-need-to-know-before-starting-your-own-practice-on-wheels/

Why End of Life Veterinary Care is Best Delivered in the Home

The Advantages of Mobile Veterinary Services for Solo Practitioners and Clinics 

Why Do Pet Parents Use Mobile Veterinary Services?

Checklist For Starting A Mobile Vet Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Post author By The Curious Scribbler
• Post date April 2, 2023
• No Comments on Checklist For Starting A Mobile Vet Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the local laws and regulations related to mobile veterinary practice.

2. Draft a business plan for your mobile vet business.

3. Apply for licenses and permits required to operate the business legally in your area.

4. Purchase necessary equipment and supplies including a mobile veterinary clinic, medical instruments and medications.

5. Decide on pricing for services and products offered in the business.

6. Set up marketing strategy to promote the business.

7. Hire qualified professionals such as veterinarians, technicians, receptionists and support staff.

8. Get insurance coverage for your business.

9. Create a website for the business, advertise online and on social media.

10. Develop customer service policies and procedures to ensure client satisfaction.

11. Track appointments, payments and other operational activities of the business using software tools or apps.

12. Monitor expenses and maintain financial records for your mobile vet business.

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How to Launch a Mobile Vet Clinic: 9-Step Checklist for Success

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Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey in the veterinary field? Discover how to open your own mobile veterinary clinic in just 9 easy steps ! This comprehensive checklist will guide you through the essential phases, from understanding local regulations to marketing your services effectively. Want to streamline your process even further? Check out this detailed business plan tailored specifically for a veterinary clinic on wheels.

How Do I Open A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company With No Experience?

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels can be a rewarding venture, particularly if you have a passion for animal care . Even without prior experience, you can successfully launch a mobile veterinary clinic by following a structured approach. Here are some essential steps to guide you:

• Research Local Regulations: Understanding the local regulations for veterinary clinics is crucial. Ensure you are familiar with licensing requirements and health regulations in your area.
• Develop a Business Plan: Crafting a comprehensive vet clinic business plan will help outline your goals, target market, and financial projections. Resources like this guide can assist you in creating an effective plan.
• Identify Your Niche: Determine which mobile veterinary services you want to provide. This could include vaccinations, wellness checks, or emergency care.
• Network with Professionals: Connect with experienced veterinarians and industry professionals. Their insights can be invaluable as you navigate the challenges of starting a mobile vet service .
• Acquire Necessary Equipment: Research and budget for the equipment needed for your mobile animal hospital setup . This might include exam tables, diagnostic tools, and medical supplies.
• Marketing Strategies: Develop effective marketing strategies for your mobile vet service . Utilize social media, local advertising, and partnerships with pet services to raise awareness.
• Consider Funding Options: If you lack funds, explore options for funding a mobile veterinary clinic , such as loans, grants, or investors.

Pro Tips for Success

• Experience through Volunteering: Gain experience by volunteering at local animal shelters or clinics. This exposure will increase your confidence and skills in handling animals.
• Online Courses: Consider enrolling in online courses related to veterinary practices and business management to enhance your knowledge.
• Mentorship: Seek out a mentor in the veterinary field who can provide guidance and support as you start your journey.

By following these steps, you can effectively navigate the process of launching a mobile pet healthcare service, even without prior experience. Remember, dedication and a willingness to learn are key components to your success in this rewarding field.

How Do I Start A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company With No Money?

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels can seem daunting, especially if you are constrained by budget limitations. However, with strategic planning and resourcefulness, you can launch your mobile veterinary clinic without substantial upfront investment.

Here are some steps to consider for starting your mobile pet healthcare business with minimal funds:

Utilize Existing Resources

• Start by using your personal vehicle, ensuring it meets local regulations for a mobile animal hospital setup .
• Repurpose existing veterinary equipment or use basic supplies to begin with simpler services.

Networking is crucial. Collaborate with local veterinarians or animal clinics willing to subcontract services. This could allow you to share resources and gain clientele without significant initial investments.

Access Funding Opportunities

• Look into microloans or grants specifically designed for small businesses in the veterinary field.
• Consider crowdfunding platforms where pet owners express interest in supporting a new veterinarian on wheels service.

Additionally, tap into community resources. Many local animal shelters and pet organizations are eager to partner with mobile vet care services to provide low-cost services to the community.

Establish a Strong Online Presence

• Build a basic website to showcase your services and attract clients.
• Utilize social media channels to promote your mobile veterinary services and engage with potential customers.

Leverage free marketing strategies, such as participating in local pet events or offering free initial consultations to build a loyal client base for your veterinary services at home . Research shows that over 60% of pet owners prefer mobile services for their convenience.

Lastly, create a detailed vet clinic business plan outlining your service offerings, target market, and operational strategies. This will not only guide your steps but also help attract potential investors or partners.

Example Of Checklist For Opening A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels requires meticulous planning and organization. Below is a checklist designed to guide you through the initial steps of launching this unique business model:

• Research Local Regulations And Licensing Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific legal requirements for operating a mobile veterinary clinic in your area. This includes regional veterinary licenses, health permits, and business licenses.
• Identify Target Market And Service Areas: Determine your ideal clientele, whether it's urban pet owners or rural communities. Analyze demographics and pet ownership statistics in your target zones.
• Design Mobile Clinic Setup And Services Offered: Plan the layout of your mobile unit and the veterinary services you will provide, such as vaccinations, check-ups, or surgeries. Consider the dimensions of your mobile unit; many mobile clinics operate in vehicles like vans or trailers.
• Acquire Necessary Equipment And Supplies: Invest in essential veterinary tools and medical supplies. The average startup cost for equipment can range from $10,000 to $50,000 depending on the scope of services offered.
• Hire Qualified Veterinary Staff And Support Personnel: Recruit licensed veterinarians, vet techs, and administrative staff. Ensure your team is skilled in mobile veterinary services to maintain high standards of care.
• Develop Marketing Strategies To Attract Clients: Utilize social media, local pet events, and community partnerships to promote your mobile pet healthcare services. Consider offering introductory discounts to attract your first clients.
• Establish Partnerships With Local Pet Services And Businesses: Collaborate with local pet shops, groomers, and shelters to widen your reach. Such partnerships can help in referral programs and community outreach.
• Implement Scheduling And Client Management Systems: Use software to manage appointments and track client records. Efficient scheduling can improve client satisfaction and operational efficiency.
• Launch With A Grand Opening Event To Raise Awareness: Plan an open house or community event to showcase your mobile animal hospital setup . This is an excellent opportunity to build relationships and promote your services.

Tips for Effective Planning

• Consider seeking advice from existing mobile vet services for insights on best practices.
• Attend veterinary conferences to network with industry professionals and gather resources.

As you work through this checklist for opening a mobile pet clinic , remember that flexibility and adaptability are key. Your business will need to evolve based on client feedback and market demands.

How Long Does It Take To Start A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company?

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels can be an exciting venture that allows you to provide mobile veterinary services directly to your clients’ homes. However, the timeline for launching your mobile veterinary clinic can vary significantly based on several factors.

On average, the process of setting up a mobile pet healthcare service can take anywhere from 3 to 12 months . Here are the key phases that influence this timeline:

• Research and Planning (1-3 months): This initial stage involves market research, understanding local regulations , and drafting a thorough vet clinic business plan . Establishing partnerships with local pet services may also occur during this phase.
• Licensing and Permits (1-2 months): Navigating through the requirements for mobile veterinary clinics can be time-consuming. You will need to acquire the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally.
• Vehicle and Equipment Acquisition (2-4 months): Depending on whether you buy or convert an existing vehicle into a mobile animal hospital setup , this phase can vary. Acquiring veterinary equipment and supplies also plays a crucial role in this timeline.
• Staff Recruitment (1-3 months): Hiring qualified veterinary staff and support personnel can take several weeks to months, especially if you are looking for specialized skills.
• Marketing and Launch Preparation (1-2 months): Developing marketing strategies for mobile vet service and planning a grand opening event should be finalized before the launch.

Tips for a Faster Launch

• Start with a clear and comprehensive checklist for mobile vet clinic tasks to stay organized.
• Consider a phased launch, starting with fewer services and expanding as demand grows.
• Utilize existing networks and social media to create buzz early in the process.

The entire process can stretch based on your specific situation and resources. For those looking to expedite the timeline, securing funding for a mobile veterinary clinic at the outset can alleviate some financial pressures, allowing quicker decision-making and more rapid execution of your plans.

For detailed financial assessments, explore the running expenses associated with this venture.

How Can I Find Investors For Starting A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company?

Finding investors for your mobile veterinary clinic can significantly ease the financial burden of starting a veterinary clinic on wheels. With the growing demand for mobile animal hospital setup and pet care on wheels , there’s a promising market to attract potential investors.

To locate interested investors, consider the following strategies:

• Networking Events: Attend local and national veterinary conferences, pet expos, and business networking events to connect with potential investors who are interested in starting a mobile vet service .
• Online Platforms: Use crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or specialized equity crowdfunding sites tailored for veterinary startups, which can attract small investors interested in funding a mobile veterinary clinic .
• Angel Investors: Look for angel investors who have a passion for animal care and are actively looking to invest in veterinary services at home or mobile veterinary services .
• Venture Capital Firms: Research venture capital firms that focus on healthcare or pet services; present your vet clinic business plan to showcase the potential return on investment.
• Local Business Grants: Investigate local government grants for small businesses focusing on innovative healthcare solutions; many municipalities support mobile veterinary clinics as a means of improving community health.

When approaching potential investors, be prepared with data and market research. Present the increasing trend in mobile veterinary care services , where the market is projected to grow by 10% annually . Highlight the benefits of your unique business model—offering convenience for pet owners and timely medical attention for pets.

Tips for Attracting Investors

• Prepare a Comprehensive Business Plan: Outline your vision, operational strategy, and financial forecasts. Use resources like this guide to assist you.
• Showcase Testimonials: If possible, gather testimonials from pilot programs or initial clients to demonstrate demand and satisfaction.

Overall, finding the right investors requires a combination of good networking, a solid plan, and data-driven persuasion. As the mobile veterinary clinic industry evolves, opportunities to secure funding will continue to grow. Be proactive, and don’t hesitate to leverage the power of personal connections and online tools to boost your chances of success.

How Do I Create A Successful Business Plan For A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company?

Creating a successful business plan for your veterinary clinic on wheels is essential to ensure that your mobile veterinary services are well-structured and capable of attracting clients while meeting regulatory requirements. A comprehensive plan can also help secure funding for your mobile veterinary clinic . Here are the key components to consider:

• Executive Summary: Outline your business concept, mission, and vision. This section should provide a clear snapshot of what Rolling Paws Veterinary Clinic aims to accomplish and how you intend to deliver mobile pet healthcare .
• Market Analysis: Conduct thorough research on the local pet population, competitor landscape, and trends in animal care on wheels . For instance, approximately 68% of U.S. households own a pet, representing a significant market for mobile veterinary services .
• Services Offered: Detail the types of veterinary services you will provide, from routine check-ups to emergency care. Emphasize the convenience of veterinary services at home for pet owners, which can lead to better compliance with veterinary advice.
• Marketing Strategies: Create a marketing plan that encompasses both online and offline strategies. Consider social media campaigns and partnerships with local pet businesses to maximize your reach. Research shows that over 60% of pet owners prefer businesses that offer convenience and accessibility.
• Operational Plan: Describe the logistics of running a mobile animal hospital setup , including route planning and scheduling. This will ensure that you can efficiently manage client appointments and service delivery.
• Financial Projections: Include projections for startup costs, expected income, and ongoing expenses. A detailed financial plan is crucial for assessing the viability of your business and attracting investors. For instance, a typical startup cost for a mobile vet service can range from $50,000 to $150,000 depending on equipment and setup.

Tips for a Strong Business Plan

• Utilize templates and resources to help structure your vet clinic business plan . Consider checking out sites like this one for detailed guidance.
• Engage a financial advisor to assist with your financial projections to ensure accuracy and feasibility.

By meticulously crafting each section of your business plan, you can better navigate the complexities involved in starting a mobile vet service and position Rolling Paws Veterinary Clinic for growth and success in the pet healthcare market.

Checklist For Opening A Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Company

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels requires meticulous planning and execution. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the process:

• Research Local Regulations And Licensing Requirements: Every state has different regulations for mobile veterinary clinics. Ensure you understand the licensing requirements necessary to operate legally.
• Identify Target Market And Service Areas: Analyze demographics to define your target customers. Consider areas with fewer veterinary clinics or high pet ownership rates.
• Design Mobile Clinic Setup And Services Offered: Create a design that maximizes space efficiency and client comfort, outlining the services offered , from vaccinations to wellness checks.
• Acquire Necessary Equipment And Supplies: Invest in quality veterinary equipment. Budget around $20,000 to $100,000 for initial setup based on services provided. Resources like this link can help navigate equipment needs.
• Hire Qualified Veterinary Staff And Support Personnel: Your team should include licensed veterinarians and support staff. Competitive salaries can help attract qualified professionals.
• Develop Marketing Strategies To Attract Clients: Utilize social media, local advertisements, and community events to spread the word about your mobile veterinary services . Tailor your marketing to highlight convenience and accessibility.
• Establish Partnerships With Local Pet Services And Businesses: Collaborating with pet supply stores or grooming services can expand your client base. Consider referral discounts to encourage partnerships.
• Implement Scheduling And Client Management Systems: Investing in a robust client management system will streamline appointment scheduling and client records, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Launch With A Grand Opening Event To Raise Awareness: Plan an engaging launch event to promote your clinic. Offer free consultations, giveaways, or pet health workshops to draw in potential clients.

Tip for Success:

• Utilize feedback from your initial clients to continually refine services and improve your offerings.

Following this checklist will pave the way for a successful launch of your mobile veterinary clinic . Fostering strong client relationships and focusing on high-quality care will set your vet clinic business plan apart in the competitive landscape of animal care on wheels.

Starting a Business Steps

Starting a business, especially a mobile veterinary clinic, involves a systematic approach to ensure all bases are covered. From understanding regulations to marketing your services, each step plays a crucial role in setting up your clinic for success.

Research Local Regulations And Licensing Requirements

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels is an innovative approach to delivering mobile veterinary services , but it also requires a thorough understanding of local regulations and licensing requirements. Each state and municipality may have distinct laws governing veterinary practices, particularly those operating in a mobile capacity. Neglecting to adhere to these regulations can lead to hefty fines, business disruptions, or even the closure of your mobile pet healthcare business.

Key areas to research include:

• Veterinary Licensing: Verify that all veterinarians in your mobile clinic are properly licensed to practice in your state. Each state has specific requirements, and some may also require additional certifications for mobile practices.
• Business Permits: Obtain the necessary business permits to operate a mobile veterinary clinic. These can range from a general business license to specific mobile service permits.
• Vehicle Regulations: Ensure that your mobile clinic vehicle complies with local regulations, including health inspections and safety codes.
• Insurance Requirements: Secure appropriate insurance coverage, including liability insurance, to protect your practice and clients.
• Health and Safety Standards: Familiarize yourself with health and safety standards, including waste disposal and sanitation practices, that mobile veterinary clinics must follow.

In the United States, for example, approximately 15% of pet owners expressed interest in using mobile veterinary services; thus, meeting regulatory standards is crucial to tap into this growing market. Additionally, research shows that around 70% of pet owners prefer to consult with veterinarians who provide services in their homes or other convenient locations.

Tips for Navigating Local Regulations

• Connect with local veterinary associations or boards to stay updated on changes in regulations.
• Consult with a lawyer who specializes in veterinary law to ensure all your legal bases are covered.
• Join forums or social media groups specific to mobile veterinary services to share experiences and advice with other practitioners.

As you prepare to launch your mobile clinic, it's essential to compile a comprehensive checklist for mobile vet clinic compliance. This checklist can significantly streamline your operations and legal adherence. A well-structured approach not only mitigates risks but enhances credibility within the community.

Finally, if you’re looking to develop a strong foundation for your vet clinic business plan , consider utilizing resources that provide templates and guidelines specifically for starting a mobile vet service . For a comprehensive approach, check out this detailed business plan at Veterinary Clinic On Wheels Business Plan .

Identify Target Market And Service Areas

Identifying your target market and service areas is a critical step in launching a veterinary clinic on wheels . This involves understanding the demographics of pet owners, their needs, and where they are located. By doing so, you can tailor your mobile veterinary clinic services to meet their specific requirements, maximizing your outreach and effectiveness.

Start by analyzing the local pet population. For instance, in the United States, approximately 67% of households own a pet, translating to about 85 million families . Among these, dogs and cats are the most prevalent, which can help guide your service offerings. Researching pet ownership trends in your area will give you insight into potential clients.

Next, evaluate your competition in the area. Identify existing veterinary services and mobile clinics to ascertain their offerings and gaps in service that you could fill. Understanding what other mobile veterinary services are available allows you to create a unique selling proposition (USP) for your animal care on wheels .

Tips for Identifying Your Target Market

• Conduct surveys to understand pet owners’ preferences and needs.
• Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential clients and gather insights.
• Analyze local pet events or community gatherings to network and promote.

Remember to segment your target market based on pet types (dogs, cats, etc.), demographics, and geographic location. Each segment may require different marketing strategies and service offerings, focusing on veterinary services at home or specialized mobile care options.

Lastly, your service areas should be strategically chosen. Ensure your mobile animal hospital setup can efficiently cover these regions without compromising service quality. Consider factors such as distance, traffic patterns, and population density to optimize your route and service delivery.

By meticulously identifying these factors, you set the foundation for a successful mobile veterinary clinic , capable of thriving in a competitive landscape. For those interested in a detailed business model, consider utilizing resources like a vet clinic business plan that can guide you through every step of the process.

Design Mobile Clinic Setup And Services Offered

When embarking on the journey of establishing a veterinary clinic on wheels , the design and setup of your mobile clinic are crucial components that will dictate the effectiveness and appeal of your services. A well-thought-out mobile veterinary clinic not only enhances the experience for both pets and owners but also reinforces your brand as a forward-thinking provider of mobile pet healthcare .

The mobile clinic should be tailored to provide a wide range of veterinary services at home , ensuring convenience for pet owners while maintaining high standards of care. Consider the following elements in your design:

• Vehicle Selection: Choose a vehicle that offers sufficient space for equipment and can comfortably accommodate both your staff and the pet being treated. Popular choices include vans and trucks that can be customized for veterinary use.
• Interior Layout: Design the interior to include designated areas for examination, treatment, and recovery. You may want to incorporate:
• Examination table with adjustable height
• Storage for medical supplies and equipment
• A waiting area for pet owners
• Comfortable bedding for pets
• Equipped for Emergencies: Ensure the mobile veterinary clinic is equipped to handle emergencies. This includes having diagnostic tools like:
• Ultrasound machines
• Portable X-ray systems
• Blood analysis equipment
• Medications ready for common conditions
• Technical Setup: Implement a scheduling and client management system that helps manage appointments and medical records efficiently. Use mobile apps to streamline communication with clients.

In addition, consider the range of services you will offer. A successful mobile veterinary clinic often provides:

• Routine check-ups and vaccinations
• Diagnostic testing and laboratory services
• Emergency care and treatment
• Grooming and wellness services
• End-of-life services, including palliative care

Focus on creating a comprehensive service menu that appeals to your target market and meets the needs of pet owners in your area.

Tips for Designing Your Mobile Clinic

• Invest in high-quality equipment to ensure you can provide comprehensive care.
• Regularly update your vehicle and equipment to keep up with veterinary advancements.
• Solicit feedback from clients to improve your services and layout continuously.

As you navigate through the requirements for mobile veterinary clinics, it’s essential to keep in mind that the overall aesthetic and functionality of your mobile clinic can significantly impact client perception and satisfaction. Aim for a setup that specifies cleanliness, professionalism, and comfort.

With a strategic approach to your mobile clinic's design and an extensive range of offerings, you can position your mobile veterinary clinic to meet the modern pet owner’s needs effectively. For a detailed outline and to help you structure your venture, consider checking out the vet clinic business plan for essential insights.

Acquire Necessary Equipment And Supplies

When launching a veterinary clinic on wheels , acquiring the necessary equipment and supplies is critical to ensure your mobile veterinary services are effective and compliant with local regulations. An efficient mobile veterinary clinic must be equipped to handle various pet health needs while providing a professional environment for both pets and their owners.

Here's a list of essential equipment and supplies you should consider when starting a mobile vet service:

• Veterinary Medical Equipment: This includes diagnostic tools such as stethoscopes, otoscopes, thermometers, and blood pressure monitors.
• Surgical Instruments: If you plan to offer any surgical services, ensure you have the necessary instruments for minor procedures.
• Diagnostic Laboratory Equipment: Consider portable lab equipment for blood tests, urinalysis, and other diagnostics.
• Mobile Veterinary Cart: A well-organized cart can help you transport and access supplies easily during visits.
• Animal Handling Supplies: Ensure you have leashes, muzzles, and carriers for the safe transport of animals.
• Pharmaceuticals: Stock essential medications and vaccines based on the common health issues observed in your target market.
• First Aid Kits: Prepare comprehensive first aid kits tailored for animals.
• Comfort and Restraint Equipment: Have tools like blankets, pet beds, and calming collars to ensure pets feel safe and comfortable during examinations or treatments.

Additionally, consider the need for a suitable vehicle to house your mobile animal hospital setup . This could be a van or truck that is well-equipped for veterinary work, complete with:

• Veterinary Workstation: A dedicated space for performing examinations or minor procedures.
• Water Supply: Ensure there is access to clean water for both pets and routine cleaning.
• Storage Space: Adequate storage for all of your supplies, ensuring items are organized and easily accessible.

According to industry data, a well-equipped mobile veterinary unit can increase patient engagement by approximately 30% and significantly improve client satisfaction. This impact highlights the importance of having the right tools and environment to provide mobile pet healthcare effectively.

Tips for Acquiring Equipment

• Research local suppliers and negotiate for bulk purchase discounts to save costs.
• Consider leasing equipment to minimize upfront costs while still providing quality care.
• Invest in portable technology solutions that enhance service delivery and diagnostics on the go.

Make sure to check the requirements for mobile veterinary clinics in your area as they may dictate specific equipment needs or safety standards. The success of your vet clinic business plan depends not only on the services you offer but also on how well-equipped you are to execute them.

By thoroughly evaluating your mobile vet care services needs and planning accordingly, you’ll be well on your way to successfully launching a mobile veterinary services checklist that not only meets but exceeds your clients’ expectations.

Hire Qualified Veterinary Staff And Support Personnel

Launching a veterinary clinic on wheels requires not only a well-thought-out business plan but also a dedicated team that can ensure the highest standards of care for pets. When starting a mobile veterinary clinic , hiring qualified veterinary staff and support personnel is crucial to building a successful operation that meets the needs of your clients and their furry companions.

The demand for mobile pet healthcare services is rising, with a significant percentage of pet owners preferring the convenience of at-home veterinary services. According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association, approximately 67% of U.S. households own a pet, signaling a vast market for your mobile animal hospital setup .

Here are key roles you should consider when assembling your team:

• Licensed Veterinarians: Make sure to hire qualified veterinarians who have experience with mobile veterinary services and are licensed in the states where you operate.
• Veterinary Technicians: These professionals can assist with medical procedures, administer treatments, and provide first aid, making them essential for effective mobile vet care services .
• Administrative Staff: Consider hiring administrative staff to manage scheduling, client communications, and billing processes, ensuring a smooth operational flow.

In addition to hiring the right professionals, you must also ensure they are trained and comfortable with the mobile setup. Veterinarians on wheels face unique challenges that require adaptability and efficiency.

Tips for Hiring Veterinary Staff

• Prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong communication skills , as they will interact directly with clients in the mobile setting.
• Look for staff members who have a passion for animal care and a willingness to learn about the specific demands of a mobile vet service .
• Consider conducting group interviews to assess teamwork ability, which is vital in a mobile clinic environment.

As you plan your team, keep in mind the range of veterinary services you'll offer. Consider specialized roles, such as behaviorists or nutritionists, depending on your target market. A diverse team can enhance the range of veterinary services at home you provide, which could elevate your clinic’s reputation.

Effective recruitment and management of a skilled team can set your mobile veterinary clinic apart from traditional clinics. Investing in staff training and development is also essential for maintaining high standards and ensuring your team is well-equipped to meet the unique challenges of working in a mobile veterinary clinic.

For those starting this innovative journey, a comprehensive vet clinic business plan can provide invaluable structure and guidance. More information can be found at this link .

Develop Marketing Strategies To Attract Clients

Starting a veterinary clinic on wheels requires effective marketing strategies to successfully reach pet owners and establish a loyal client base. Since many pet owners are looking for convenience and quality care, your mobile veterinary clinic should stand out in a competitive market. Here are several marketing strategies you can employ:

• Social Media Engagement: Utilize platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase your services, share client testimonials, and post engaging content about pet healthcare. Studies show that over 70% of people are influenced by social media in their purchasing decisions.
• Website Development: Create a professional website with details about your mobile veterinary services , service areas, and booking options. Ensure it is mobile-friendly, as many users will access your site from their smartphones.
• Local SEO Optimization: Optimize your website for local searches to make it easier for pet owners to find your clinic. Include keywords like “ mobile pet healthcare ” and “ vet clinic startup tips ” within your site’s content and metadata.
• Referral Programs: Consider creating a referral program where existing clients receive discounts for referring new clients. This can be a cost-effective way to increase your client base.
• Community Events and Partnerships: Participate in local pet events or health fairs to establish connections with the community. Partnering with local pet stores or animal shelters can also help with cross-promotion.
• Email Marketing: Build an email list to send out newsletters, health tips, and special promotions to your clients. This helps keep your clinic top-of-mind when they need veterinary services.
• Content Marketing: Write informative blogs or create videos about pet care on wheels. Share tips, case studies, and information on common pet health issues to establish authority in the field.

Additional Tips for Effective Marketing

• Utilize Google My Business to list your mobile veterinary services , allowing clients to find your services quickly in local searches.
• Engage with online reviews by responding to feedback, which can enhance your clinic's reputation and trustworthiness.
• Leverage local advertising options such as community newsletters and flyers at pet-friendly locations.

According to recent data, the demand for mobile veterinary services has increased by approximately 35% over the past few years, highlighting the potential market for your clinic. By effectively implementing these marketing strategies, you can attract and retain clients for your veterinary clinic on wheels , ultimately driving your business success.

Crafting a compelling vet clinic business plan that outlines these strategies will also help you secure funding. For a detailed guide on crafting your business plan, consider visiting: Veterinary Clinic on Wheels Business Plan .

Incorporating these strategies into your mobile veterinary clinic will enhance your outreach and make it easier for pet owners to find the quality care they seek for their furry friends.

Establish Partnerships With Local Pet Services And Businesses

Establishing strategic partnerships with local pet services and businesses is crucial for the success of your veterinary clinic on wheels . Collaborating with other pet-related entities can create a robust network that benefits your mobile veterinary clinic in numerous ways, such as enhancing visibility, sharing clientele, and providing a wider range of services to pet owners.

Consider partnering with the following types of local businesses and services:

• Pet groomers: Collaborating with groomers can lead to cross-referrals. When a pet gets groomed, there’s a chance they might need a veterinary check-up, presenting an opportunity to introduce your services.
• Pet supply stores: Local pet shops can display your promotional materials and refer customers looking for veterinary services, thus amplifying your reach.
• Dog trainers and obedience schools: Trainers can recommend your mobile pet healthcare services to pet owners looking to maintain their pet's health during training.
• Doggy daycares and boarding facilities: Establishing a partnership helps you connect with pets that may require regular health check-ups, vaccinations, or emergency care.
• Animal shelters and rescue groups: Partnering with shelters can create goodwill in the community. You can offer discounted services for adopted pets or contribute to their health care programs.

These partnerships not only enhance your mobile veterinary services but also foster a sense of community and trust among pet owners, encouraging them to choose your clinic over traditional veterinary setups.

When forming these partnerships, focus on mutual benefits and clear communication to ensure that both parties understand expectations and goals. This collaboration can strengthen your business's reputation while optimizing your service offerings.

Tips for Building Successful Partnerships

• Network regularly at local pet events to meet potential partners.
• Create joint marketing campaigns that emphasize both businesses.
• Offer free health workshops or educational sessions at partner locations.

Lastly, maintain a solid marketing strategy that clearly defines how your mobile veterinary clinic complements the services provided by your partners. Incorporating social media and community events into your marketing can create buzz and attract a loyal clientele.

To effectively plan your venture, consider using a detailed vet clinic business plan . This can guide you through the specifics of funding, local regulations, and operational logistics necessary for launching a successful mobile animal hospital setup .

Implement Scheduling And Client Management Systems

For your veterinary clinic on wheels , effectively implementing scheduling and client management systems is crucial for maximizing efficiency and delivering top-notch mobile veterinary services . Unlike traditional veterinary practices, a mobile model requires dynamic systems that accommodate the unpredictable nature of traveling to clients’ locations while ensuring seamless customer experience.

To streamline operations, consider investing in software solutions specifically designed for mobile veterinary clinics . These systems not only help in scheduling appointments but also manage client data, track patient history, and send reminders. By integrating these functionalities, you enhance the overall quality of care and professionalism.

When establishing a client management system for your mobile pet healthcare service, focus on these essential components:

• Multi-Platform Access: Ensure the system is accessible via mobile devices so your team can update records and schedules on the go.
• Automated Reminders: Utilize automated reminders for vaccinations, check-ups, and follow-ups to enhance pet health compliance.
• Integrated Payment Processing: Incorporate secure payment options to facilitate ease of transactions, fostering a hassle-free client experience.

Tips for Effective Scheduling

• Consider offering online booking to empower clients to manage their appointments conveniently.
• Implement buffer times between appointments to account for travel delays and unexpected situations during visits.

Another key aspect to remember while launching your mobile veterinary clinic is the importance of customer feedback in refining your scheduling and management processes. Encourage clients to share their experiences, which will help you identify any gaps or areas for improvement.

The investment in proper scheduling and client management systems not only optimizes your operational efficiency but also enhances your reputation as a reliable animal care on wheels . Consider exploring customizable options that align with the specific needs of your mobile vet care services . A well-thought-out vet clinic business plan can guide these selections effectively.

Launch With A Grand Opening Event To Raise Awareness

Launching a veterinary clinic on wheels requires not only a solid foundation of services but also an impactful way to introduce your mobile veterinary services to the community. A grand opening event is an essential strategy for raising awareness and attracting initial clients. This event serves as your launchpad to showcase your mobile veterinary clinic and the unique benefits it offers.

Consider organizing an engaging and informative grand opening event, where potential clients can meet you and your team, tour the mobile unit, and learn about the various veterinary services at home you provide. Here are some key elements to incorporate into your grand opening:

• Demonstrations: Set up live demonstrations of common procedures to highlight your expertise in mobile animal hospital setup .
• Promotional Offers: Offer discounts or free initial consultations to encourage attendees to schedule future appointments.
• Educational Sessions: Host talks on pet health, nutrition, and wellness to position your clinic as a knowledgeable ally in pet care.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborate with nearby pet businesses, such as groomers, pet stores, and trainers to enhance visibility and network.

Statistics show that a well-planned opening can increase awareness by over 70% and potentially lead to a 30% increase in client bookings within the first month. Ensure to utilize various marketing strategies for your mobile vet service leading up to and during the event.

Tips for a Successful Grand Opening

• Use social media platforms to create buzz before the event; consider targeted ads to reach pet owners.
• Engage with pet influencers or local pet-related bloggers to extend your reach.
• Collect emails during the event to build a mailing list for future promotions and pet care tips.

Finally, measuring the success of your grand opening is vital. Collect feedback during the event and track how many appointments are made as a direct result. Utilizing a vet clinic business plan can help you outline your marketing strategies and ensure a successful launch with quantifiable goals.

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Veterinary Clinic Business Plan Sample

Published Mar.14, 2022

Updated Sep.14, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

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Table of Content

Veterinary clinic business plan for starting your own

Veterinary clinics exist to serve the medical needs of various animals such as dogs, cats, birds, fish, etc. According to the American Pets association statistics, there are more than 300 million pets in America. These pets at one time or the other require medical services and therefore, they are usually taken to veterinary clinics. If you have medical expertise and you are passionate about animals, a business plan for a veterinary clinic might be something that interests you.  

If you are unsure about how to open your own veterinary clinic, you can start by drafting a business plan that will give you an insight into the market. Here we have a business plan for Focused Pet Care. It is articulated by best business plan experts in the United States, hence it can help you get a head start.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Focus Pet Care is a standard veterinary clinic located in New York, USA. We intend to offer standard medical services such as medical examination, diagnosis, treatment, and surgery to pets such as cats, dogs, birds, iguanas, and other animals. We intend to also offer consultancy and advisory services to our clients regarding their pets.

2.2 Management of veterinary clinic

While starting a vet clinic, it is essential to ensure that all aspects of the business are coherent. Hence, you must prepare a unique veterinary business plan before launching your business.

A veterinary practice business plan will be somewhat like a business plan for dog kennel . You can read a few business plans and develop a management strategy for your startup but it is not considered a good approach. It is recommended to hire professionals and get a customized business plan in line with your resources and objectives for your startup.

2.3 Customers of the veterinary clinic

Even when you hire business planning services to get a business plan written, you still need to do some work yourself. You need to find out which groups can be your potential customers and whether they are the same customer groups that you want to attract. Although Focused Pet Care will offer services to everyone with pets, running a veterinary practice in New York will particularly interest the following customer groups:

• Young, Single Adults
• Corporate Executives

2.4 Business Target

Starting a veterinary practice from scratch can be challenging. it requires streamlining of long-term objectives and goals. our vision is to be recognized for the standard medical practices we offer and be the go-to clinic for all pet owners residing here in the vicinity..

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Edward Miller is a veterinary doctor who has worked in several veterinary hospitals in New York and has garnered administrative and practical experiences in surgery, dental care, reproductive issues, and skin disorders in animals.

3.2 Why the veterinary clinic is being started

Edward Miller noticed an increasing gap between the demand and supply of veterinary care in New York City. This wedge resulted in high prices charged by vets and they offered substandard services in return. To provide quality healthcare to animals in the vicinity, Edward decided to open a clinic of his own. Focused Pet Care is his first-ever veterinary practice start up.

3.3 How the veterinary clinic will be started

Step1: Planning the Business

Opening a veterinary practice start up can be a challenging task and requires proper planning that needs to be done ahead of time. A comprehensive business plan can help you analyze different strategies that suit your startup. It also enables you to do a cost-benefit analysis. 

Step2: Branding

The next step is to define your business’s services and values to get recognized. Having the proper business structure is very important to brand your startup. At Focused Pet Care, we aim to base our company on customer-centric lines. To ensure smooth business operations and to deliver the best possible services, we hired the best employees who are competent and have the right experience.

Step3: Find a Physical Space

Since running a veterinary clinic requires constant supervision and monitoring, Edward decided to have his corporate office in the same building as Focused Pet Care. This can help him visit the clinics at any time and keep a strict check on business operations.

Step4: Online Presence

Living in an age of social media and digitalization, having a web presence is imperative for a company’s success. Having an online website would help potential customers understand the services offered by your business. In addition, they would also be able to book appointments accordingly.

Step5: Promote and Market

When you start working on your vet clinic business plan, you get an idea of how much it costs to open a vet clinic. The costs are similar to those in horse boarding business plan . To meet these costs and earn a profit, you must employ effective marketing strategies that align with your long-term goals

Services of veterinary clinic

Starting your own veterinary practice can be daunting and confusing. The key behind building a successful veterinary practice is to identify your target market and understand their needs thoroughly. In this way, you will be able to decide which services to offer. In this business plan veterinary clinic, we are listing the services offered by Focused Pet Care:

• General Examination

During a routine wellness examination, vets at Focused Pet Care will ask you questions about your pet’s diet, exercise, breathing, behavior, habits, elimination patterns (i.e., bowel movements and urination), lifestyle, and general health. Based on your pet’s history and physical examination, your veterinarian will then make recommendations for specific preventive medicine treatments such as vaccination, parasite control, nutrition, and skin and coat care. 

• Surgical Facilities

Our state-of-the-art surgical suite will offer various surgical procedures such as fracture repair, exploratory procedures, and routine surgeries such as spays and neuters. 

• Internal Medicine

We will offer complete in-hospital diagnostic procedures, including blood work, endoscopic capabilities, and ultrasound.  Consultation with specialists nationwide can be arranged too if needed.

• Grooming Kits

Pet owners who are particular about what shampoos, wipes, and combs to use for their pets are cared for at Focused Pet Care. Our experienced vets offer consultancy services to pet owners and offer them customized grooming kits for their cats and dogs. 

While working on your business plan for a mobile veterinary clinic, you will get an idea of how much it costs to buy a veterinary practice and hence, can arrange for funding accordingly.

Marketing Analysis of veterinary clinic

5.1 market trends, excellent work.

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The veterinary services industry’s life cycle has been described as being in its growth phase. The Industry Value Added (IVA), which is used to indicate the industry’s contribution to the economy, has been pegged to grow at 2.9% between 2011 and 2022. The U.S economy, in comparison, is expected to grow at 2.2% in the same period.

The advent of new technologies has seen many professionals in the human healthcare sector migrate to veterinary medicine, as the industry continues to grow due to other factors such as pet ownership, availability of advanced diagnostic and surgical procedures, as well as the increasing awareness of animal health issues. Hence if you have some unique vet clinic ideas, this would be the right time for starting a veterinary business.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Defining your target market is essential before starting your own veterinary practice. In this sample business plan for veterinary clinic, the following are the customer groups catered by Focused Pet Care:

Business plan for investors

5.2.1 households.

Households with pets are the recurring customers of Focused Pet Care. Since pets are like family members of a household, they deserve the best possible care. At Focused Pet Care, they are entitled to get it from us.

5.2.2 Elderly

This group is pivotal to the success of the clinic. They are the most proactive regarding the health of their pets and demand a strong relationship with their pet’s veterinarian. In return, they will become loyal customers who will refer both friends and neighbors.

5.2.3 Young single adults

This group is primarily reactive to the health of their pets and will usually only visit the clinic for emergencies, reproduction services, and shots. This group will not visit us often but is still expected to be a significant source of customers from the community.

5.2.4 Working people

Due to their tiring jobs, working people are heavily dependent on veterinary clinics for all sorts of health-related concerns related to their pets. They might not spend a lot of time with their pets and hence might not notice any changes in their health until it worsens. The corporate lifestyle is quite mainstream in NYC. Therefore opening a veterinary clinic will be a good business opportunity for Focused Pet Care.

5.3 Business Target

• Running a veterinary practice with profit margins of 25% after the first year of business.
• Incorporating a dog daycare business plan in the operations of the veterinary clinic to expand the scope of services.
• Capturing a market share of 30% in the next three years of operations.
• Having a customer satisfaction score of 98%.

5.4 Product Pricing

Under this sample veterinary business plan, Focused Pet Care intends to lower its rates in the first 6 months of business. This will be seen as part of our promotion strategy to increase awareness about our veterinary clinic amongst potential customers. 

Marketing Strategy of veterinary clinic 

In this veterinary clinic business plan pdf, you will find a veterinary marketing plan used by Focused Pet Care. Marketing for any business is vital as it ensures that the company gains publicity and generates money. To have effective marketing strategies, we intend to conduct a market survey that will help us understand the market we are going into and figure out how best to penetrate this market.

Provided that this veterinary business plan template is quite detailed, you can refer to the marketing strategies used by Focused Pet Care and see if any of them resonates with your business idea.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• The services at Focused Pet Care would be offered by professional vets who have practice worth 7+ years.
• Building a veterinary clinic that has state-of-the-art and standardized medical facilities for our various customers.
• On-the-job training will be provided to most of the employees at the clinic to ensure that your pet is in safe hands.
• The introductory prices offered by Focused Pet Care Clinic would be lower than the market rates without any compromise on the quality of services.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• Ensure that Focused Pet Care is enlisted on offline and online directories
• Make use of social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter
• Engage in direct marketing
• Use direct word-of-mouth marketing

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan of veterinary clinic

The average cost of executing veterinary business ideas is in almost the same range as mentioned in business plan of a dog training center . It is important to account for different kinds of costs to forecast financial returns accordingly. In this business plan for veterinary clinic, we are taking down the average salaries of employees at pet hotels.

7.1 Company Staff

As per this veterinary clinic business plan sample pdf, Little Paws will hire for the following positions:

• 1 Managing Director
• 2 Veterinary Doctors
• 4 Veterinary Assistants
• 1 Accountant
• 1 Purchasing Manager

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan of veterinary clinic.

A sole focus on increasing sales does not ensure that your business has become successful and will yield profits. It would help if you did a thorough analysis of the veterinary clinic start up costs and estimated the operations’ capacity for your business accordingly. 

In your financial plan, you must identify when and how to cover your investment amount with the earned profits. Moreover, it would help analyze your yearly expenses to determine the possibilities of reaching an economy of scale. A veterinary clinic business plan should also include an in-depth financial analysis which gives an idea of how much it costs to start a veterinary clinic and how much you need to earn to sustain the business.

While analyzing how much it costs to open a veterinary clinic , you must familiarize yourself with different business models such as a pet photography business plan . It will help you understand the industry better.

Here we’re providing a business plan used by Focused Pet Care for you to use as a reference.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 break-even analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

• Are veterinary clinics profitable?

If you open vet clinics, you can typically generate a profit of $50k per month by the second or third year. However, it is only possible when you efficiently manage the business.

• How do I set up a vet business plan?

To have a veterinarian business plan of your own, you need to:

• Research how your competitors are doing the business
• Explore services that can be offered
• Decide the audience you want to serve
• Plan your veterinary practice
• Form your veterinary practice into a legal entity
• Register your veterinary practice for taxes
• Open a business bank account & credit card
• Set up accounts for your veterinary practice
• Get the necessary permits & licenses for your veterinary practice
• Get veterinary practice insurance
• Define your veterinary practice brand
• Create your veterinary practice website
• Set up your business phone system
• How much money do you need to start a veterinary clinic?

For an average price of $1,000,000, you’ll be able to open a small animal clinic from the ground up. At $250,000, the cost of starting a mobile veterinary practice is much more affordable. It depends on what business plan veterinary clinic you follow.

• Is a vet clinic a good investment?

To make an investment profitable, you need to have a strong veterinary clinic marketing plan. The investment required to set up a clinic is similar to that mentioned in a business plan for dog walking . A vet clinic is certainly a great investment as it has high returns. The average full-time equivalent (FTE) veterinarian produces roughly $550,000 to $600,000 a year.

Download Veterinary Clinic Business Plan Sample in pdf

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Success in Veterinary Practice

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Home » Open Veterinary Clinic

A Sample Veterinary Clinic Business Plan Template

A veterinary clinic is a facility where pets and other animals are treated. In addition to performing diagnostic imaging and ultrasound tests on animals, performing surgery, dressing and treating wounds, prescribing medication for animals, and performing other related services, veterinary clinics are responsible for assessing and examining pets, diagnosing their medical issues, and conducting laboratory tests on them.

According to information currently available, the market for veterinary services was valued at approximately USD 86.8 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to expand at a 6.7 percent CAGR from 2022 to 2030. By 2027, the market for veterinary services is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.5 percent. Increased acceptance of animals is one factor fueling the market’s expansion.

Steps to Write a Veterinary Clinic Business Plan

Executive summary.

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. is a veterinary clinic facility that will be based in San Francisco, California and the organization will be committed to serving a wide range of pet owners and farm animal owners. Dr. Pamela Edison is the founder and CEO of Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc.

Company Profile

A. our products and services.

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. Veterinary clinics will offer a wide range of products and services to help keep animals healthy and treat them when they become ill or injured. Some of the products and services that we will offer include:

• Preventive care: This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control to help prevent diseases and keep animals healthy.
• Diagnostics: This includes laboratory tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds to help diagnose illnesses and injuries.
• Treatment: This includes medication, surgery, and other treatments to help animals recover from illnesses or injuries.
• Dental care: This includes teeth cleaning, extractions, and other dental procedures to help maintain good oral health.
• Nutrition and weight management: This includes advice and products to help animals maintain a healthy weight and diet.
• Behavioral counseling: This includes advice and training to help owners address behavioral problems in their animals.
• Boarding and grooming services: Offering boarding and grooming services for animals while their owners are away.
• Pet products: Selling pet food, toys, and other products to help owners care for their animals.
• Emergency services: We will offer 24-hour emergency care for animals that require immediate attention.

b. Nature of the Business

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will operate the business-to-consumer business model (B2C).

c. The Industry

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will operate in the pet services care industry.

d. Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide safe and secure vet clinics that are geared toward giving top-notch medical treatments to pets and farm animals.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision of establishing our veterinary clinic is to grow the business to be among the top three veterinary clinics in the United States of America.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. – A Veterinary Clinic You Can Trust!

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). The reason why we are forming an LLC is to protect our personal assets by limiting the liability to the resources of the business itself. The LLC will protect our CEO’s personal assets from claims against the business, including lawsuits.

h. Our Organizational Structure

• Vet Doctor (Owner)
• Vet Technician
• Vet Assistant (Nurse)
• Security Guards

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• Pamela Edison (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 51 Percent Shares
• Peter Felix (Board Member) 19 Percent Shares
• Julius Morgan (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Leandro Hinsen (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Elsie Justin (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.

SWOT Analysis

A. strength.

• Perfect location for a vet clinic
• Highly Experienced and Qualified Employees and Management
• Highly Secured and Clean Facility
• Ability to attract high-paying clients who own pets and farm animals.

b. Weakness

• Financial Limitations
• Operating from a leased facility (restriction to fully modify the facility to suit our style and taste)
• Inability to retain our highly experienced and qualified employees longer than we want.

c. Opportunities

• The population of pet lovers in the United States is growing hence providing opportunities for a vet clinic
• Over the past several years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of people that choose to keep pets as companions, including dogs, cats, and even horses.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The vet clinic industry is indeed a big industry because of the love Americans have for pets and the massive number of pet owners in the United States who from time to time seek medical treatment and care for their pets and farm animals.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

It is important to note that the industry’s revenue has been altered from increasing to declining based on the data that is now available, indicating that the industry is currently not growing.

Please take note that beginning in 2022, industry income is expected to begin increasing as the economy strengthens and COVID-19 cases decline in line with the widespread vaccination program. Statistics really suggest that by 2027, the industry is expected to rise to a value of USD 86.8 billion.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry

The future trends in the veterinary clinic industry are such that most veterinarians are adopting new technologies in the field. Technologies that are transferable and make it easier to diagnose and treat pets and farm animals.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

No, there are no niche ideas when it comes to the veterinary clinic line of business.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of your Business in the Future?

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. has plans to sell franchises in the nearest future and we will target major cities with growing numbers of pet owners and farm animals in the United States of America.

• Lack of support from stakeholders and the government
• Unfavorable government policy and regulations.
• Community resistance (May not want such facility to be located in their community)
• Liability problems
• The arrival of competitors within our market space.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Broken Top Veterinary Clinic
• Animal Medical Center (AMC)
• Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital
• Angell Animal Medical Center
• Prestige Animal Hospital
• Alta View Veterinary Clinic
• Lewis Animal Hospital
• Dakota Hills Veterinary Clinic
• Imperial Animal Hospital
• Lowell Animal Hospital
• Rau Animal Hospital
• Houston Cat Hospital
• Renton Veterinary Hospital
• Beatline Oaks Veterinary Hospital
• Sploot Veterinary Care
• Rancho Bernardo Pet Hospital
• The Drake Center for Veterinary Care
• Foothill Animal Hospital
• Theater View Veterinary Clinic
• Animal Hospital of Chelsea.

ii. Is There a Franchise for Veterinary Clinic Business?

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for veterinary clinic business, and here are some of them;

• Refit Animal Care
• Bingle Vet Clinics
• PetWellClinic
• VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center
• Holistic Veterinary.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Veterinary Clinic Businesses?

Yes, there are county, and state regulations and zoning laws for veterinary clinics in the United States, and players in this industry are expected to work with the existing regulations governing such business in the county or state where their business is domiciled.

Marketing Plan

A. who is your target audience, i. age range.

We don’t have an age range of people who intend to do business with us.

ii. Level of Educational

We don’t have any restriction on the level of education of those we are looking forward to bringing their pets and farm animals to our veterinary clinic.

iii. Income Level

We don’t have any cap on the income level of those who can bring their pets and farm animals to our veterinary clinic.

iv. Ethnicity

There is no restriction when it comes to the ethnicity of the people who can bring their pets and farm animals to our veterinary clinic.

v. Language

There is no restriction when it comes to the language spoken by the people who can bring their pets and farm animals to our veterinary clinic.

vi. Geographical Location

Any pet or farm animal owner from any geographical location will be welcome to bring their pets and farm animals to our veterinary clinic.

vii. Lifestyle

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will not restrict any pet owner or animal farmer from accessing our veterinary clinic facility and services based on their lifestyle, culture, or race.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Host Themed Events That Catch the Attention of Pet Owners and Animal Farmers.
• Tap Into Text Marketing.
• Use FOMO to Run Photo Promotions.
• Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
• Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource
• Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
• Build Relationships with Other Animal Farmers and Pet related businesses in our Area

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• OOH Marketing – Public Transit like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Content Marketing.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
• Affiliate Marketing
• Mobile Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Start using chatbots.
• Create a personalized experience for our clients.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for pet owners.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Use brand advocates.
• Create profiles on relevant social media channels.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.

c. Pricing Strategy

When working out our pricing strategy, Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will make sure it covers;

• Cost-Based Pricing
• Value-Based Pricing
• Competition-Based Pricing.

Sales and Distribution Plan

A. sales channels.

In order to refer customers to us, our channel sales plan will make use of partners and third parties including referral partners, affiliate partners, pet clubs, and animal farms.

Additionally, Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will use the four Ps of marketing: site, pricing, product, and promotion. We may have a visible, in-demand service that is reasonably priced and promoted to our clientele by carefully incorporating all these marketing methods into a marketing mix.

b. Inventory Strategy

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will operate an inventory strategy based on a day-to-day methodology for ordering, maintaining, and processing things in our warehouse since we will frequently need pet hygiene products, change of bedding, pet supplies, and food.

We will approach the development of our strategy with the same level of care and diligence as we would if we were formulating an overarching corporate strategy.

c. Payment Options for Customers

Here are the payment options that Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards/Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

The nature of the services we provide at Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. does not allow for return policies or incentives.

e. Customer Support Strategy

We will ask customers for comments as part of our customer care approach. This will help us better understand their requirements, experiences, and pain spots in order to provide outstanding customer support to all our clients. To be able to accomplish our goal of exceeding our customers’ needs, we will work with efficient CRM software.

Operational Plan

At Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc., our operational plan will include the following components:

• Staffing: A plan for hiring and managing staff, including job descriptions, recruitment, and training procedures.
• Facility: A plan for managing and maintaining the clinic’s facilities, including equipment, supplies, and infrastructure.
• Financial Management: A plan for managing the clinic’s finances, including budgeting, billing, and financial reporting.
• Marketing and Advertising: A plan for promoting the clinic, including advertising, public relations, and community outreach.
• Service Offerings: A plan for the services that the clinic will offer, including routine checkups, vaccinations, surgeries, and emergency care.
• Inventory Management: A plan for managing the clinic’s inventory, including ordering, storing, and tracking supplies.
• Safety and Compliance: A plan for ensuring the safety and compliance of the clinic, including safety procedures, emergency protocols, and compliance with state and federal regulations.
• IT and Data Management: A plan for managing the clinic’s IT systems, including software, hardware, and data security.
• Continuous improvement: A plan for monitoring, measuring, and improving the clinic’s performance and procedures.
• Contingency Planning: A plan for dealing with unexpected events, such as natural disasters, pandemics, or other emergencies.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Veterinary Clinic Business?

• Opening procedures: Staff members arrive at the clinic and prepare the facility for the day, including stocking exam rooms with supplies and setting up equipment.
• Appointments and walk-ins: The clinic opens for business and begins seeing scheduled appointments and walk-in patients. This includes routine checkups, vaccinations, and diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries.
• Emergency cases: Emergency cases are seen as they arrive, and triaged accordingly.
• Surgeries: Scheduled surgeries are performed, this could include spaying, neutering, and other procedures.
• Lab work: Samples are taken and sent to a lab for analysis, this could include blood work, X-rays, and other diagnostic tests.
• Follow-up care: Staff members check on patients who have been hospitalized or treated for an illness or injury, and provide follow-up care as needed.
• Clerical tasks: Staff members handle administrative tasks such as answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, and updating patient records.
• Closing procedures: Staff members clean and prepare the facility for the next day, restock supplies, and shut down equipment.

b. Production Process

There is no production process when it comes to a veterinary clinic.

c. Service Procedure

There is no service procedure when it comes to a veterinary clinic.

d. The Supply Chain

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will rely on pet shops and other stakeholders in our city to refer pet owners to us. So also, we have been able to establish business relationships with wholesale supplies of bedding, toiletries, pet medications, pet supplies, and food et al.

e. Sources of Income

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. generates revenue by providing a broad range of services that center on identifying medical disorders in dogs following examination and assessment. analyzing samples in a lab to find medical issues, and performing diagnostic ultrasonography and imaging procedures.

Financial Plan

A. amount needed to start our veterinary clinic.

To successfully launch our veterinary clinic in the United States of America, Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. would need an estimated $150,000. Please be aware that this amount covers both the rental of our operational space and the salary of all of our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Costs Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $3,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $5,400.
• Rent/Lease – $60,000.
• Other start-up expenses like commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $30,000
• Start-up inventory – $15,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
• Furnishing and Equipping – $40,000
• Website: $800
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

For our veterinary clinic, Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will not construct a new building; instead, we intend to begin with a long-term lease and acquire our own facility after five years.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Veterinary Clinic?

• Staff salaries and benefits: This includes wages, salaries, and benefits for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, receptionists, and other staff members.
• Rent or mortgage payments: This includes the cost of leasing or owning the property where the clinic is located.
• Utilities: This includes expenses for electricity, water, gas, and other utility services.
• Equipment and supplies: This includes expenses for veterinary equipment, such as exam tables, X-ray machines, surgical instruments, and lab equipment, as well as the cost of supplies, such as medication and vaccines.
• Insurance: This includes liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and other types of insurance that are required for a veterinary clinic.
• Marketing and advertising: This includes expenses for promoting the clinic, such as advertising in local newspapers and directories, creating a website, and creating brochures and other promotional materials.
• Maintenance and repairs: This includes expenses for maintaining and repairing the clinic’s equipment and facilities.
• Continuing education and training: This includes expenses for attending conferences and seminars, as well as continuing education courses for staff members.
• IT expenses: This includes expenses for maintaining and updating the computer and software systems used by the clinic.
• Professional fees: This includes expenses for legal and accounting services, taxes, and other fees.

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff? 

• Vet Doctor (Owner) – $53,000 Per Year
• Vet Technician – $40,000 Per Year
• Vet Assistant (Nurse) – $38,000 Per Year
• Cleaners – $25,000 Per Year
• Security Guard -$24,000 Per Year.

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Veterinary Clinic?

• Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
• Bank Loans: Banks and other financial institutions
• Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe
• From Investors
• Personal savings.

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your product/service.

At Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. it is important to note that we will charge $60 per visit. However, additional veterinary expenses, such as those for medical care and medicines, can mount up quickly if your pet needs more health care. To aid with the cost of veterinary visits, pet insurance can be quite useful.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $350,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $450,000

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): (35 percent)
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): (45 percent)
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): (50 percent)

d. Profit Margin of a Veterinary clinic Product/Service

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will work towards achieving between 25 percent to 45 percent.

Growth Plan

A. how do you intend to grow and expand by opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a franchise.

Within the first five years of starting the company, Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. will expand its veterinary clinic by opening more locations in significant American cities and starting in the sixth year, it will begin selling franchises.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why? 

Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. plans to expand to;

• Lancaster, Virginia
• Alcona, Michigan
• Catron, New Mexico
• Glenside, Pennsylvania
• Lowell, Indiana
• Imperial, Missouri
• Rapid City, South Dakota
• Cincinnati, Ohio
• Greenfield, Wisconsin
• Fontana, California
• New York, New York
• Boston, Massachusetts.

Why we intend to expand to these geographic locations is the fact that available statistics show that the cities listed above have the highest number of people with pets and farm animals in the United States.

The Dr. Pamela® Veterinary Clinic, Inc. founder intends to retire from the company through family succession. We have put systems and procedures in place that will enable us to carry out our strategy of smoothly passing the company down through the generations and from one family member to the next.

More on Open Veterinary Clinic

• Client Engagement
• Refill Reminders
• Appointment Scheduling
• Digital Medical Records
• See All Features
• Testimonials

Integrations

• Request a Demo

Planning to Launch Your Own Mobile Vet Clinic? Consider These 4 Challenges First.

I f you’ve read our previous post , you’ve learned about some of the more surprising benefits of having your own mobile vet clinic. For starters, there’s a much bigger market for mobile vets than many veterinarians probably imagine. Pet behavior is markedly better during mobile visits. Mobile vets have far less problems with collections, and their marketing dollars are boosted by their clients singing their praises through word of mouth.

As with anything, there are positives and negatives. So what are some of the challenges a mobile vet might run into? How is it different from running a stationary vet clinic? What are some of the key hurdles to consider if you decide to start a mobile vet clinic?

In VitusVet’s July webinar, “ How mobile veterinarians use technology to support diverse services and grow client loyalty ”, VitusVet Founder and DVM Mark Olcott interviewed Lisa Aumiller, DVM, of Housepaws Mobile Veterinary Service, Mary Gardner, DVM, of Lap of Love, and Larry Kovac, DVM, of Northland Mobile Veterinary Clinic. Here’s what these 3 mobile veterinarians had to say about the challenges associated with mobile vet clinics.

Finding a bank and a leasing company that will support you may take time.

One of the key issues to consider is how much it costs to start up a mobile veterinary clinic. Veterinary Practice News estimates up to $250,000 of startup capital required to launch a mobile veterinary clinic. That may seem like a lot if you are a veterinarian working for a pre-established practice, but it’s actually quite low when you compare it to the cost of starting a stationary vet clinic – which is upwards of $1,000,000.

Given the high upfront investment of either type of clinic, most vets interested in launching a mobile practice will need to get a loan from a bank or investor to start their practice. That’s exactly what Dr. Kovac did when he launched his mobile practice bank in 1987. “My wife and I saved up $5,000 to get a lease and our first loan from a brand new bank,” says Dr. Kovac. “We went to work on February 5, 1987 and we haven’t looked back since.”

Dr. Kovac makes it sound pretty straightforward, but in reality, it wasn’t. In the late 1980’s, mobile veterinary clinics were not nearly as common as they are today, so lenders may have been skeptical about an investment. “Finding the right bank and leasing company for our business was key,” he says. “Part of it was that we didn’t go with standard veterinary builders. I bought RVs and had them customized as mobile clinics.”

As time went on, Dr. Kovac saw that each new request for funds was easier because of his continued success and profitability with his mobile vet clinic. “Later responses were like, ‘What do you want, Larry? Go buy it and we’ll pay for it.”

One of Dr. Kovac’s biggest pieces of advice to veterinarians considering a mobile practice? “Find a bank that is willing to work with you.”

Mobile vets will need to dispel the misconceptions of local stationary vets.

Before starting a mobile vet clinic, many veterinarians will probably have worked for established stationary clinics in their area. They are likely to have relationships with various types of vets locally. Those relationships, which would seem like they would only be a help to mobile vets, can sometimes prove to be a hindrance for various reasons.

One common misconception is that a mobile vet clinic is actually just what many refer to as a shopping center or parking lot vaccination clinic – not a full-service clinic. Dr. Kovac has experience with this firsthand. “When I wanted to start my mobile clinic, I went to four of my colleagues and presented the idea to them. I knew they could afford to start me up. They all said no, we’re not interested because they thought I was starting a parking lot vaccination clinic.”

And it wasn’t just saying no to the investment. Dr. Kovac reports some ill will on the part of his colleagues. “One of the old timers at the time pulled me aside and said, “There was a time when we were all going to run you out of business,” says Dr. Kovac.

Through his work with a pet store at the mall, Dr. Kovac was able to show his colleagues that he was operating a full-service clinic. “We had a start-to-finish program where I sent every pet to their veterinarian healthy and fully vaccinated,” Dr. Kovac says. “They saw that I was serious, and they actually started referring to the pet store when clients wanted a purebred.”

Another misconception is that once a client uses a mobile vet, they will never go back to their stationary vet. The perception of stationary vets is that mobile vets are “stealing” their clients. However, there are many cases where a client may need on-site service from a mobile vet just as a one-off, but plan to keep using their stationary vet for the long haul.

Dr. Gardner takes these types of client relationships very seriously. “It’s very important for us to maintain that relationship, and it’s an honor to know that those veterinarians trust us with their families,” Dr. Gardner says. “We want them to go back.”

“Even still today, some don’t want us to steal their euthanasia business,” says Dr. Gardner. “I tell them, we’ve got a line out the door. If you want to do general practice and go into people’s homes, that’s great. We’re here if you can’t.”

Specific to end-of-life, a third misconception is what a mobile hospice vet actually does. Many veterinarians believe mobile hospice is actually prolonging suffering and inevitable death for a pet, but Dr. Gardner disagrees. “We’re focused on palliation and making sure pets are comfortable until the end – not prolonging suffering.”

Experience in other veterinary settings is critical before launching a mobile vet clinic.

To those fresh out of veterinary school, a mobile vet clinic might seem like a way to skip the standard track and be your own boss from the start. It is a way to be more independent, but only after some experience in traditional vet practice where more junior vets can pick up valuable experience they’ll need while out on the road.

Dr. Gardner gets questions all the time about how long a veterinarian should be out of school before attempting mobile end-of-life care. Many assume that what she does is rather easy, but she quickly sets them straight. “You’ve got to have the confidence to be on your own, in strangers’ homes or out front in your van,” she says. “You’re on the road by yourself, with no technician. You’re talking about medicine, diseases, and treatments to families. You really need to be a lone wolf.”

Dr. Kovac had a similar experience with confidence when starting out his mobile practice. “I was going to get started in 1986, but I wasn’t ready,” he says. “Another year in private practice got me ready to where I was confident enough in myself to go out and take it on.”

Dr. Aumiller also agrees and adds another skill vets may get in private practice that contributes to a well-functioning mobile clinic: technical skills. “You need excellent technical skills to run a mobile vet clinic,” she says. “That’s why a year or two in private practice can make a big difference.”

Driving is one of the biggest time-drains for mobile vets. Efficient routing is key.

“Mobile vet calls take a lot longer than stationary vet calls because we have to do the routing and figure out where the client lives,” she says. “That’s probably the biggest time investment for our mobile practice: quick routing. I wish I knew of an app that helped with routing.”

Dr. Gardner agrees and has taken it one step further. “I’m working with our developers to create software that reduces the time we spend on routing,” she says. “It’s definitely a challenge for our business.”

Mobile vet practices face significant – yet surmountable – challenges.

Given all these hurdles, launching a mobile vet clinic may seem beyond reach. Finding a bank and convincing local vets to collaborate can both be tricky. Experience in private practice and a solid routing process are really necessary. That’s a lot to take on.

However, the important thing is awareness. Knowing it might take some time to get funding from an investor and/or buy-in from colleagues sets expectations going in. And both experience in private practice and routing tools are things vets can work on ahead of time. These are all things would-be mobile vets can prepare for.

Looking for a quick reminder of all the positives of a mobile vet clinic? Take a look at our previous post for more details.

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