Essex, MD – September 9, 2026 — VetEvolve, a leading community of veterinary practices built on the belief that strong clinical care and sustainable growth reinforce one another, announced its partnership with Pets Furst Urgent Care in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. The partnership continues VetEvolve’s relationship with Dr. Lawrence “Larry” Rebbecchi, who previously partnered with the organization through the sale of Philadelphia Animal Hospital in 2025.
Pets Furst Urgent Care opened in February 2024 to provide convenient, timely veterinary care for pets throughout Bucks County and surrounding communities. Co-owned by Dr. Larry Rebbecchi and Mike Rebbecchi Sr., the four-doctor practice operates on a walk-in basis, treating illnesses and injuries without requiring an appointment. Mike Rebbecchi Sr. and Carol Rebbecchi serve as Practice Managers, while Dr. Jonas Colmer serves as Medical Director, leading the practice’s clinical team and patient care.
“Welcoming the Pets Furst team into the VetEvolve community while having the opportunity to partner with the Rebbecchi family again is incredibly meaningful,” said Catherine Howell, Chief Executive Officer of VetEvolve. “Repeat partnerships like this reflect the relationships we strive to build — grounded in trust, transparency, and a shared commitment to supporting veterinary teams. Pets Furst also brings an exciting urgent care model to our community, and we look forward to working alongside its leadership and team as the practice continues to grow.”
For Dr. Rebbecchi, the decision to partner with VetEvolve again follows his experience transitioning another practice to the organization in August 2025.
“After partnering with VetEvolve, I saw firsthand that they delivered exactly what they said they would,” said Dr. Rebbecchi. “With Philadelphia Animal Hospital, they took so much of the day-to-day burden of practice ownership off my shoulders and gave me the ability to focus on what I enjoy most — practicing veterinary medicine. Our team is happy, we’re operating more efficiently, and the best part is that nothing about who we are as a practice has changed. That experience made choosing VetEvolve again with Pets Furst an easy decision.”
“Pets Furst was built to give local pet owners a reliable place to turn when their pets need timely care,” said Mike Rebbecchi Sr., co-owner and Practice Manager of Pets Furst Urgent Care. “We’re incredibly proud of the team and walk-in care model we’ve built. Partnering with VetEvolve gives us additional support and resources to continue growing while preserving the local identity, culture, and approach to care that are so important to us.”
Through the partnership, Pets Furst will maintain its local identity and walk-in care model while gaining access to VetEvolve’s operational resources and support. The addition further strengthens VetEvolve’s presence in Pennsylvania and across the Mid-Atlantic.
Media Contact:
VetEvolve Marketing
vemarketing@vetevolve.com
About VetEvolve
VetEvolve is a community of veterinary practices focused on supporting owners, teams, and communities through partnership-driven growth. Since its founding in 2014, the company has grown to more than 50 practices across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. By combining local practice autonomy with the support of a collaborative network and scalable platform, VetEvolve helps practices strengthen care, improve client experience, and build long-term value.
Essex, MD – August 6, 2026 — VetEvolve, a leading community of veterinary practices built on the belief that strong clinical care and sustainable growth reinforce one another, today announced its partnership with Colonial Animal Hospital in Springfield, Virginia. The addition expands VetEvolve’s presence in Northern Virginia and marks the company’s 54th practice.
Colonial Animal Hospital is a two-doctor small animal hospital serving dogs and cats throughout Springfield and the surrounding Northern Virginia communities. Known for its attentive team and personalized approach to care, the hospital has built a loyal client base that has trusted it for years.
“Dr. Allison Fennell has built a practice that reflects the very best of community veterinary medicine,” said Clayton Stanley, Chief Development Officer of VetEvolve. “Her commitment to her team, her clients, and the pets they serve has created a culture we’re proud to support. We look forward to building on that strong foundation together.”
For Dr. Allison Fennell, choosing the right partner meant preserving the culture and personalized care that has defined Colonial Animal Hospital while positioning the practice for the future.
“When we began thinking about the future of Colonial Animal Hospital, we knew we wanted a partner who shared our commitment to exceptional patient care, our team, and the families who trust us with their pets,” said Dr. Fennell, who will continue leading the practice as Medical Director. “VetEvolve gives us the opportunity to preserve what makes our hospital special while providing additional resources and support to continue growing and serving our community for years to come.”
With the addition of Colonial Animal Hospital, VetEvolve continues to grow a network of practices focused on strengthening patient care, supporting veterinary professionals, and creating long-term value within the communities they serve.
Media Contact:
VetEvolve Marketing
vemarketing@vetevolve.com
About VetEvolve
VetEvolve is a community of veterinary practices focused on supporting owners, teams, and communities through partnership-driven growth. Since its founding in 2014, the company has grown to 54 practices across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Grounded in a belief in growth with intention and care without compromise, VetEvolve combines local practice autonomy with the support of a collaborative network and scalable platform — helping practices strengthen care, improve client experience, and build long-term value.
Essex, MD – May 28, 2026 — VetEvolve today announced its partnership with Danville Family Vet, a trusted full-service veterinary hospital serving pets and families throughout Danville, Virginia and surrounding communities. The addition marks VetEvolve’s 53rd practice and continues the company’s growth across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Danville Family Vet is a full-service small animal hospital serving families throughout Danville, South Boston, and Martinsville, Virginia, as well as nearby communities in North Carolina. The two-doctor practice has built a strong reputation for compassionate care, accessibility, and a client experience centered around treating every pet and owner like family.
Recognized throughout the Danville area for compassionate care, behavioral medicine, and advanced pet dentistry, Danville Family Vet also offers preventive care, surgery, urgent care, internal medicine, diagnostics, grooming, daycare, and pet boarding services. The practice is committed to making veterinary care more accessible for local families, including offering same-day appointments and welcoming walk-ins.
The partnership reflects a shared belief that veterinary medicine is strongest when teams are supported, practices remain deeply connected to their communities, and growth is approached with intention.
“Danville Family Vet has built a practice that combines compassionate care with a broad range of services designed to support pets throughout every stage of life,” said Catherine Howell, Chief Executive Officer of VetEvolve. “Their commitment to client relationships and clinical excellence aligns closely with how we believe veterinary care should evolve and grow.”
The Danville Family Vet team emphasized the importance of finding a partner that would support the practice’s future while preserving the culture and experience clients know and trust.
“We’ve always believed in creating an environment where pets, clients, and team members feel genuinely cared for,” said Dr. Jeff Smith, Veterinarian and Danville Family Vet Founder. “Partnering with VetEvolve allows us to continue building on that foundation while gaining additional support and resources for our team and community.”
With the addition of Danville Family Vet, VetEvolve continues to grow a network of practices focused on strengthening patient care, supporting veterinary teams, and creating long-term value within the communities they serve.
As demand for veterinary services continues to grow, VetEvolve remains focused on partnering with practices that value high-quality medicine, strong culture, and sustainable growth throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Media Contact: VetEvolve Marketing, vemarketing@vetevolve.com
About VetEvolve
VetEvolve is a community of veterinary practices focused on supporting owners, teams, and communities through partnership-driven growth. Since its founding in 2014, the company has grown to 53 practices across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. By combining local practice autonomy with the support of a collaborative network and scalable platform, VetEvolve helps practices strengthen care, improve client experience, and build long-term value.
Partnership reflects continued momentum and demand for VetEvolve’s model of intentional growth and practice support
Essex, MD — March 25, 2026 — VetEvolve today announced a new joint venture partnership with Paradocs Animal Hospital, a respected veterinary practice based in Locust Grove, Virginia, continuing the company’s steady growth across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Founded in 2015 by Dr. Joan Prasse and Dr. Shauna Riggs, Paradocs Animal Hospital has built a strong reputation for high-quality care and a collaborative, team-oriented culture. The practice provides both companion animal and equine services, offering a unique model tailored to the needs of its local community.
Through this joint venture partnership, Paradocs will retain its clinical leadership and identity while gaining access to VetEvolve’s broader support platform — designed to strengthen operations, support teams, and enable long-term growth.
“We spend a lot of time with owners before anything moves forward,” said Clayton Stanley, Chief Development Officer at VetEvolve. “What stood out here was a team that’s built something real — strong medicine, a great culture, and deep ties to their community. They weren’t looking to change that — they were looking for a way to build on it. When you bring the right support around a team like this, it creates the opportunity to grow in a way that reinforces what they’re already doing well.”
“We’ve always been focused on building a practice that puts our team and our patients first,” said Dr. Shauna Riggs, co-owner of Paradocs Animal Hospital. “As we started thinking about what the next chapter could look like, it was important to find a partner who could support that — not change it. We were looking for a way to keep growing, better support our team, and take some of the day-to-day pressure off, so we can stay focused on the care itself. VetEvolve gives us that balance.”
The addition of Paradocs strengthens VetEvolve’s presence in Northern Virginia and reflects the company’s focus on building regional density — enabling better collaboration across practices and stronger support for teams and clients.
As VetEvolve continues to grow its network of over 50 practices, its approach remains grounded in a clear philosophy: growth with intention and care without compromise — ensuring that expansion strengthens, rather than dilutes, the quality of care delivered at the local level.
Media Contact: VetEvolve Marketing, vemarketing@vetevolve.com
About VetEvolve
VetEvolve is a community of veterinary practices focused on supporting owners, teams, and communities through partnership-driven growth. Since its founding in 2014, the company has grown to over 50 practices across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Grounded in a belief in growth with intention and care without compromise, VetEvolve combines local practice autonomy with the support of a collaborative network and scalable platform — helping practices strengthen care, improve client experience, and build long-term value.
VetEvolve, a leading community of veterinary practices built on the belief that strong clinical care and sustainable growth reinforce one another, today announced the addition of Gentle Care Animal Hospital in Forest, Virginia. The transaction marks VetEvolve’s 51st practice and its first joint venture partnership, underscoring the company’s continued momentum across the Mid-Atlantic and its differentiated approach to partnership-led growth.
Founded and led by Dr. Barbara Stevens, Gentle Care Animal Hospital will continue to operate under its established name and identity. The full-service practice provides comprehensive medical care, boarding, and grooming services and is supported by a team of four veterinarians.
The partnership represents VetEvolve’s third practice in the Lynchburg area, adding meaningful density within a five-mile radius of its existing locations. This regional clustering enables greater collaboration, operational support, and scale efficiencies — helping practices improve access, consistency, and the clinical experience while preserving their local roots.
“We don’t view care and growth as competing priorities,” said Catherine Howell, Chief Executive Officer of VetEvolve. “When growth is done thoughtfully, it creates the stability and capacity teams need to focus on medicine and client experience. Our role is to remove friction from the practice so veterinarians can do their best work — and build lasting value over time.”
VetEvolve’s joint venture model is designed for owners seeking both liquidity and continued participation in the future growth of their practice. By aligning clinical leadership with enterprise performance, the model supports continued investment in people, facilities, and systems while preserving owner voice and accountability.
“For me, this partnership reinforced that growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of care,” said Dr. Stevens. “VetEvolve gives us more capability and support, while allowing us to stay true to who we are both now and in the future.”
Since its founding in 2014, VetEvolve has grown from a single practice to a network of 51 practices across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Backed by long-term investment and a purpose-built enterprise platform, the company focuses on enabling practices to deliver consistently high-quality care while building durable, long-term value for owners.
VetEvolve continues to see strong interest from practice owners and advisors seeking flexible partnership options and is actively exploring additional partnerships across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Selling a veterinary practice is a significant decision, and choosing the right partner can make all the difference. At VetEvolve, we prioritize collaboration, working closely with practices to ensure a smooth transition that respects your team, your culture, and everything that makes your practice special.
Our Integrations Team is a dedicated group of experts who guide practice owners and their teams through every step of the transition process. From the moment an owner decides to sell, through closing and beyond, our team works tirelessly to ensure a seamless, transparent, and supportive experience.
A Thoughtful, Personalized Approach – Before Closing
Unlike many corporate groups that rush through the transition, our Integrations Team spends months before closing learning everything they can about your practice. They hold weekly meetings, conduct on-site visits about three weeks before closing, and meet with staff early on to answer questions and ease concerns.
This thorough approach ensures:
- No surprises at closing – we have open conversations early about any changes.
- Tailored support – whether it’s staffing, operations, or benefits, we identify gaps and start addressing them before closing.
- A collaborative transition – we work alongside you, your staff, and our support teams to ensure everything runs smoothly.
According to Laura Rosenfeld, Vice President of Integrations, “At VetEvolve, we know that selling a practice isn’t just a financial decision – it’s an emotional one. Many veterinary team members have been with a hospital for years, and they care deeply about their work, their colleagues, and their clients. Change can be exciting, but it can also bring uncertainty. That’s why we focus on a true partnership, working closely with your team to acknowledge their concerns and ensure they feel supported throughout the process.”
Setting Your Practice Up for Success
After closing, our Integrations Team oversees the operational transition – from vendor relationships and payroll to marketing, IT, and accounting. We make sure:
- Payroll never gets missed – your team is financially secure from day one.
- Employee benefits are honored and enhanced – we address any benefit gaps, ensuring a smooth transition in PTO and coverage.
- Your team stays connected – we introduce them to VetEvolve’s broader support network, so they always know where to turn for help.
Most importantly, we work with your goals in mind. Whether you’re selling to retire, achieve a better work-life balance, or stay on board with more support, we want you to succeed.
A Long-Term Partnership
Our commitment doesn’t end at closing. We continue to collaborate with practice leaders, refining operations without disrupting what makes the hospital special. Unlike some groups that impose changes suddenly, we take the time to listen, discuss, and align on best practices that benefit both the hospital and its team.
VetEvolve doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We begin the conversations around key areas of concern like products and pricing before the transition – ensuring a respectful, trust-based relationship from day one that relies on your clinical decision-making.
Choosing to sell your practice is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make – but you don’t have to navigate it alone. VetEvolve’s Integrations Team is dedicated to making the transition smooth, supportive, and tailored to your practice’s unique needs. Our collaborative approach, open communication, and ongoing support help ensure that your team feels secure, your clients experience consistent care, and your practice thrives under new ownership. When you partner with VetEvolve, you’re not just setting your practice up for success – you’re gaining a team that’s invested in your long-term growth and well-being.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]
The Road to Big Lick and Practice Ownership
As part of a military family, Dr. Natalie McLaughlin was used to moving and living in many different places but Virginia was always home. She finished high school in Virginia Beach, graduated from Virginia Tech in 1995, and began building her life in Roanoke. She earned her veterinary medicine degree from VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000 and after graduation, began her professional career at a rural practice in Franklin County, Va.
After having children, Natalie was able to adjust her schedule to part-time but still had a 45-minute drive between work and home. To try to close that gap, she began exploring opportunities closer to home, and after nine years, she stayed part-time but moved to Big Lick Veterinary Services, a practice owned by a friend in Roanoke.
She didn’t know it at the time, but her friend was thinking about her successor plans when bringing Natalie to Big Lick Veterinary Services. Just a year later in 2010, her friend approached her to buy the practice. Practice ownership interested her, but knew she didn’t want to do it alone so she reached out to a friend, Dr. Jon Amos.
They believed in the growth potential of the practice and decided to take the plunge together. Economic conditions at the time made it extremely difficult to secure a loan from a bank, but they figured out how to personally finance the purchase, with the help of friends and family.
Though neither Natalie nor Jon had experience in running a business and didn’t learn about practice ownership in veterinary school, they made it work. They doubled the size of the business in four years, paid off their debts, and built a sustainable practice that allowed them to practice veterinary medicine the way they had always wanted.
In Need of Support
Natalie and Jon were strong business partners, and their relationship was solid. But as Big Lick continued to grow, the operations of the practice became more complex and the administrative work grew. Natalie and Jon were both practicing veterinary medicine full-time, managing their family lives and running the business and soon work-life balance was a thing of the past. The hardships and challenges of the pandemic in 2020 only exacerbated the situation. Natalie began to notice that she and Jon were starting to have decision fatigue and were on the road to burning out, When Jon approached her and said he’d like them to have a conversation with Bronson Makeeff at VetEvolve, she was hesitant but knew getting help was something they needed to explore.
The Journey to VetEvolve
Natalie was nervous about considering a partnership with a veterinary consolidator because she was adverse to change. She knew she still had many years ahead of her in her career and didn’t want to be told how to practice veterinary medicine. But Jon assured her they would find the right partner for them.
While they ended up having conversations with all of the industry players, VetEvolve stood out for its people-first focus, especially as it took the time to get to know them and listen to their goals and concerns. VetEvolve ensured that Natalie and Jon were comfortable with the growth plans for the future and the support they would receive as part of the VetEvolve community.
As a result of the time spent building trust, there were no surprises in the due diligence process, the start of the partnership went smoothly, and everything VetEvolve promised during the discussions was followed through on post-close.
“They didn’t want to change us as doctors, or people,” Natalie said. “We could keep the small business feel and personal touches we had built while getting help.”
The Right Decision at the Right Time
“The decision to partner with VetEvolve was the right one, across the board”, Natalie said.
Assistance with business operations helped them gain peace of mind and was important to restoring balance in their lives. Financially, the decision aligned with their goals for leaving a legacy and their retirement planning. Just as importantly, the VetEvolve partnership allowed them to continue to practice medicine—without the strain of managing every aspect of the business. Natalie said her fears of micromanagement have never materialized. Most of Big Lick’s clients have no idea of the partnership—the practice is essentially still the same local business focused on its community and patients.
“I still have probably 20 more years to practice until I retire,” Natalie said. “I expect I’ll be doing that with VetEvolve until then.”
It was not an easy decision to explore a partnership with VetEvolve. But for Natalie, Jon, and Big Lick it was certainly the right one.
“It was freeing for us,” she said. “We can now go in and be the very best veterinarians we can be.
“VetEvolve took away the burden of the minutiae of running a business. It has allowed us to pay attention to our mental health, our physical health, our families, and our patients.”
Learn What VetEvolve Can Do For You
When you’re looking to sell your practice, VetEvolve is here to help. Reach out to us today to see how we can help you reach your goals.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1730996914493{margin-bottom: 35px !important;}”]As a veterinary practice owner, you’ve poured yourself into building your practice. You’ve pursued your passion, providing compassionate, quality care for your community, and supported the growth of your team. But you’re now at an inflection point — You’re considering selling your veterinary practice.
Maybe you’re eyeing retirement, or fighting burnout. Perhaps you want a new direction with your career, or you’ve grown tired of the administration aspect of owning a practice versus focusing on providing great pet care. Entering into a partnership with a veterinary group may offer a viable path forward. But finding the right partner is critical. How do you cut through the noise to identify the group that best aligns with your vision for your practice’s future when everyone seems to be saying the same thing?
For many, selling your veterinary practice is a deeply personal and emotional endeavor. It is also a major investment decision that is tied to your financial security. Consider the following questions as a guide to help you evaluate the most important characteristics of any group interested in your practice. These should help identify the groups that align closely with what you’re looking for and with what your practice needs to continue to thrive.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]
1. What is their ‘Why’?’ Why do they exist?
Understanding what the veterinary group values will give you more clarity into what you can expect from them in your future interactions. Many veterinary consolidators are trying to grow their stable of practices as quickly as possible and view each practice as a short-term investment that can be turned around quickly for another sale. Others are looking to grow sustainably, invest in support and benefits for the practices, and improve the quality of care for pets and the experience for the people who love them.
The first step in any engagement with a potential partner is asking why they do what they do and why they’re interested in your practice. Ask questions about their strategy and cut to the heart of the relationship by exploring the ‘why’ upfront. You don’t want to waste time or get too far down the road before discovering the partnership isn’t a good fit.
Does the potential partner align with your vision for the future of the practice? Does the group you’re dealing with work earnestly to address your concerns? Remember, there is more to it than just the purchase price.
VetEvolve exists to create positive change in the veterinary profession to enhance the lives of pets and people. Our community is dedicated to living out our core values: serve, trust, and evolve.
2. How will this group care for my team through the partnership process and beyond?
One of the top concerns when selling your veterinary practice is the uncertainty about how your current team will be affected. Appreciation of your team and the role they’ve played in the practice’s success speaks to who you are and the culture you’ve created.
Will the new partner protect and support the team in place? Are they transparent about what kind of changes could take place? Will they build on the culture already in place? Are they committed to evolving the practice to meet the challenges of today, through team support, new technology, and improved levels of care?
VetEvolve focuses on building relationships and inspiring growth throughout our partner practices. Our leaders are dedicated to making sure every veterinary professional at every stage has the support they need—when they need it. We never lose sight of why our job is important—we empower our teams to deliver consistently high-quality care for pets. Your staff will have additional opportunities for professional development and advancement while working in a well-maintained positive culture. We aim to promote ethical growth within individuals and the practice as a whole, allowing us to take care of your current employees while hiring, developing, and retaining additional talent as your practice grows.
3. How will this group develop its doctors’ skill sets so that my practice thrives for many years to come?
Doctors are the cornerstones of their practices. How will the partner invest in their future, as a leader in the practice, in developing new skills, and in pursuing further interests in veterinary medicine?
Inquire about Continuing Education (CE) opportunities, including options such as tuition reimbursement or visiting other partner practices to learn from other veterinary medicine leaders. Is there a strong culture of incorporating new veterinary graduates and students, through mentorship and externship programs?
At VetEvolve, our job is to understand and provide the unique elements that make each individual on our team want to stay here for a long time. We take a unique approach focused on the people we work with and their happiness, giving them the resources they need to work toward overall physical, mental, and financial health. We’re committed to enriching veterinarians’ lives in and outside of work through our Annual Reward Fund, tuition assistance, investment in team development, continuing education allowance, one-on-one support, and flexibility.
4. What will support from this group really look like, and how will it meet the needs of my practice?
Better inventory programs, administration assistance, and promises of “clinical autonomy” are table stakes. How will this group support you day-to-day? Do they have their own team of subject matter experts, from HR and marketing to IT and accounting, or are they outsourcing to vendors (the same ones you could use)?
How often will someone from the organization be on site? Are they invested in the community work you do? Does the group consistently deliver on promises made?
VetEvolve will ensure your business’s sustainable success, give you financial liquidity, increase your cash flow, reduce your workload, decrease the burden of management activities, and increase your focus on medicine. Our team of experts can help you reach new heights and our emphasis on relationships means you’ll never go without personalized support.
5. What are your primary objectives for partnering with a veterinary group? What is most important to you?
We’ve asked you to find out the ‘why’ of the groups you may be selling your veterinary practice to, but do you remember your own? Think back to when you first decided to explore an external partner—back before price points, profit margins, multiples, and EDBITA complicated the thought process.
Your ‘why’ should inform who you sell to and what you want to achieve after the sale. Do you want to hand off all business operations and focus entirely on practicing veterinary medicine? Do you want a reduced schedule at the practice? Or do you want a plan to remove you entirely from the business after a transition period? These details should be settled in the early stages of negotiation; it’s your sale and you have control over the process. Don’t settle for a partner who tells you otherwise.
VetEvolve’s people-focused buying approach has made us well-known for creating customized transition plans, successfully transitioning associate contracts, and making changeovers as smooth as possible overall. We recognize every veterinary practice’s uniqueness and create customized solutions that fit each practice’s individual needs.
Consider VetEvolve As a Partner for Your Veterinary Practice
Selling is a big decision and there is no one who knows your hospital, clients, or staff better than you. Diving into the questions above will help you consider the pros and cons of each possible partner, and decide which group best aligns with your vision for the future of your practice.
At VetEvolve, our people-centric approach always puts support for veterinary professionals—DVMs and their teams—at the top of our priorities. Selling and transitioning your veterinary practice is a milestone. Unlike other veterinary practice partners, VetEvolve helps you transition on your terms.
We’d love the opportunity to discuss why we might be the perfect partner for you. We’ll give your practice the attention it deserves and create a transition plan customized to meet your goals for the future.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row disable_element=”yes”][vc_column][vc_column_text]As a veterinary practice owner, you’ve poured yourself into building your practice. You’ve pursued your passion, providing compassionate, quality care for your community, and supported the growth of your team. But you’re now at an inflection point — You’re considering selling your veterinary practice.
Maybe you’re eyeing retirement, or fighting burnout. Perhaps you want a new direction with your career, or you’ve grown tired of the administration aspect of owning a practice versus focusing on providing great pet care. Entering into a partnership with a veterinary group may offer a viable path forward. But finding the right partner is critical. How do you cut through the noise to identify the group that best aligns with your vision for your practice’s future when everyone seems to be saying the same thing?
For many, selling your veterinary practice is a deeply personal and emotional endeavor. It is also a major investment decision that is tied to your financial security. Consider the following questions as a guide to help you evaluate the most important characteristics of any group interested in your practice. These should help identify the groups that align closely with what you’re looking for and with what your practice needs to continue to thrive.
Fill out the form to see our list of Questions to Ask When Selling Your Veterinary Practice below.[/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html css=”.vc_custom_1718925346973{padding-top: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 30px !important;}” el_class=”gated-blog-form”]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[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”gated-content”]
1. What is their ‘Why’?’ Why do they exist?
Understanding what the veterinary group values will give you more clarity into what you can expect from them in your future interactions. Many veterinary consolidators are trying to grow their stable of practices as quickly as possible and view each practice as a short-term investment that can be turned around quickly for another sale. Others are looking to grow sustainably, invest in support and benefits for the practices, and improve the quality of care for pets and the experience for the people who love them.
The first step in any engagement with a potential partner is asking why they do what they do and why they’re interested in your practice. Ask questions about their strategy and cut to the heart of the relationship by exploring the ‘why’ upfront. You don’t want to waste time or get too far down the road before discovering the partnership isn’t a good fit.
Does the potential partner align with your vision for the future of the practice? Does the group you’re dealing with work earnestly to address your concerns? Remember, there is more to it than just the purchase price.
VetEvolve exists to create positive change in the veterinary profession to enhance the lives of pets and people. Our community is dedicated to living out our core values: serve, trust, and evolve.
2. How will this group care for my team through the partnership process and beyond?
One of the top concerns when selling your veterinary practice is the uncertainty about how your current team will be affected. Appreciation of your team and the role they’ve played in the practice’s success speaks to who you are and the culture you’ve created.
Will the new partner protect and support the team in place? Are they transparent about what kind of changes could take place? Will they build on the culture already in place? Are they committed to evolving the practice to meet the challenges of today, through team support, new technology, and improved levels of care?
VetEvolve focuses on building relationships and inspiring growth throughout our partner practices. Our leaders are dedicated to making sure every veterinary professional at every stage has the support they need—when they need it. We never lose sight of why our job is important—we empower our teams to deliver consistently high-quality care for pets. Your staff will have additional opportunities for professional development and advancement while working in a well-maintained positive culture. We aim to promote ethical growth within individuals and the practice as a whole, allowing us to take care of your current employees while hiring, developing, and retaining additional talent as your practice grows.
3. How will this group develop its doctors’ skill sets so that my practice thrives for many years to come?
Doctors are the cornerstones of their practices. How will the partner invest in their future, as a leader in the practice, in developing new skills, and in pursuing further interests in veterinary medicine?
Inquire about Continuing Education (CE) opportunities, including options such as tuition reimbursement or visiting other partner practices to learn from other veterinary medicine leaders. Is there a strong culture of incorporating new veterinary graduates and students, through mentorship and externship programs?
At VetEvolve, our job is to understand and provide the unique elements that make each individual on our team want to stay here for a long time. We take a unique approach focused on the people we work with and their happiness, giving them the resources they need to work toward overall physical, mental, and financial health. We’re committed to enriching veterinarians’ lives in and outside of work through our Annual Reward Fund, tuition assistance, investment in team development, continuing education allowance, one-on-one support, and flexibility.
4. What will support from this group really look like, and how will it meet the needs of my practice?
Better inventory programs, administration assistance, and promises of “clinical autonomy” are table stakes. How will this group support you day-to-day? Do they have their own team of subject matter experts, from HR and marketing to IT and accounting, or are they outsourcing to vendors (the same ones you could use)?
How often will someone from the organization be on site? Are they invested in the community work you do? Does the group consistently deliver on promises made?
VetEvolve will ensure your business’s sustainable success, give you financial liquidity, increase your cash flow, reduce your workload, decrease the burden of management activities, and increase your focus on medicine. Our team of experts can help you reach new heights and our emphasis on relationships means you’ll never go without personalized support.
5. What are your primary objectives for partnering with a veterinary group? What is most important to you?
We’ve asked you to find out the ‘why’ of the groups you may be selling your veterinary practice to, but do you remember your own? Think back to when you first decided to explore an external partner—back before price points, profit margins, multiples, and EDBITA complicated the thought process.
Your ‘why’ should inform who you sell to and what you want to achieve after the sale. Do you want to hand off all business operations and focus entirely on practicing veterinary medicine? Do you want a reduced schedule at the practice? Or do you want a plan to remove you entirely from the business after a transition period? These details should be settled in the early stages of negotiation; it’s your sale and you have control over the process. Don’t settle for a partner who tells you otherwise.
VetEvolve’s people-focused buying approach has made us well-known for creating customized transition plans, successfully transitioning associate contracts, and making changeovers as smooth as possible overall. We recognize every veterinary practice’s uniqueness and create customized solutions that fit each practice’s individual needs.
Consider VetEvolve As a Partner for Your Veterinary Practice
Selling is a big decision and there is no one who knows your hospital, clients, or staff better than you. Diving into the questions above will help you consider the pros and cons of each possible partner, and decide which group best aligns with your vision for the future of your practice.
At VetEvolve, our people-centric approach always puts support for veterinary professionals—DVMs and their teams—at the top of our priorities. Selling and transitioning your veterinary practice is a milestone. Unlike other veterinary practice partners, VetEvolve helps you transition on your terms.
We’d love the opportunity to discuss why we might be the perfect partner for you. We’ll give your practice the attention it deserves and create a transition plan customized to meet your goals for the future.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
While the pace of practice partnership may have started to slow industry-wide in 2023, the momentum at VetEvolve has only continued to build. With our people-first approach that prioritizes support for DVMs, career advancement paths for all personnel, and the freedom to allow practices to conduct care and treatment in accordance with their internal culture, VetEvolve has continued to find partnership opportunities that fit with our core values.
In the first half of 2023 alone, VetEvolve added four new practices to our network, expanding our reach in Virginia and Tennessee and adding our first practice in Pennsylvania. We are excited and encouraged to continue to find hospitals in our target geographies that are seeking a true partner who can support continued growth.
Addison Animal Hospital
Dr. Scott Miller worked as a solo practitioner at Addison Animal Hospital for 22 years, building the practice from the ground up. In January 2023, he turned to VetEvolve for a partnership opportunity at nearby Lake Forest Animal Hospital, merging his practice into Lake Forest where he and his team started seeing patients in April.
Working a single-doctor practice, Dr. Miller wanted to continue to practice, but he also realized he needed more support as he dealt with the burdens of ownership, including time-consuming HR functions like recruiting and payroll. Lake Forest and VetEvolve gave Dr. Miller a path forward and the confidence of working with a team he came to trust.
“(VetEvolve) was very professional, well organized, and very accommodating. It was a lot of work and a lot of details, but their team was constantly available and helpful,” Dr. Miller said. “We’re very pleased with our partnership!”
Brandermill Animal Hospital
Brandermill Animal Hospital has always been a great place to work and has become a vibrant part of the community in Midlothian, Virginia — where the practice has cared for small animals and exotics for more than 30 years. The AAHA-accredited practice has a tight-knit staff and has experienced incredibly low turnover over the last decade.
When Dr. Jennifer Kistler was looking for a partner, she wanted to be sure they would allow Brandermill to maintain the great culture that has kept the team humming for so many years.
“My team and I are very excited to be a part of the VetEvolve family,” Dr. Kistler said. “They made a life-changing decision for me as easy and stress-free as possible, and I am excited about the future.”
Tri-County Veterinary Clinic
Serving pet owners of small animals and exotics in Sevierville, Tennessee, Tri-County Veterinary Clinic carved out a strong local reputation as a bustling practice that remains dedicated to providing high-quality patient care and excellent customer service. Powered by a collaborative work environment with four DVMs on staff, the practice has been operating for nearly 20 years.
Dr. Chris Biggs was consistently going above and beyond as a veterinarian to squeeze in patients whenever she had a free minute. With back-office responsibilities continuing to grow as her practice grew, those free minutes were dwindling, and she realized she needed a partner who could help her with operations before she reached the point of burnout. In May 2023, she joined the VetEvolve network and received immediate assistance with filling an open DVM position.
“The partnership with VetEvolve has worked well for us,” Dr. Biggs said. “They have helped tremendously with our staffing issues and we have been able to continue our current, friendly, and positive culture within the clinic.”
Nonantum Veterinary Clinic
A long-time institution in Landenberg, Pa., and the surrounding Chester County area, Nonantum Veterinary Clinic is the first VetEvolve partnership in the state of Pennsylvania, joining our network in June 2023. You would be hard-pressed to find a better first practice for entering into a new state.
Kenny and Cindy Roberts were looking for a partner who would uphold the legacy of care that Kenny’s mother, Debbie, created when she started Nonantum more than 40 years ago. Known for serving clients and their pets with humility, integrity, and sensitivity, the large staff, including 12 DVMs, was a key consideration in which partner they would choose. They wanted to make sure their doctors could continue to practice medicine the way they wanted and investments would continue in adequate support staff and high-quality equipment and facilities.
“It is very exciting that Nonantum is part of a company that truly values its people and practices its core values every single day,” said Cindy Roberts, practice administrator.
Why VetEvolve?
The momentum created by these recent partnerships further highlights the strengths of VetEvolve’s approach. Whether we’re assisting owners in transitioning their practices to new leadership or investing in hospitals to accelerate their growth, we prioritize our people above all else — investing in veterinarians and their teams to give them the support they need to do what they love: provide great care.
Be sure to also read our veterinarian stories and discover how VetEvolve can help you take the next step toward a flexible and fulfilling career. If you’d like to learn more about how we can support the success of your practice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us — we’d love to hear from you.
