Episode 5: VC, PE and Other Acronyms New to Veterinary Medicine

VC (Venture Capital) and PE (Private Equity) are two of many new acronyms that have become part of the veterinary vocabulary. Unlike acronyms like TPR, ADR, VCPR, these initials are a direct reflection on the economic environment impacting companion animal veterinary practices. Never in the history of the veterinary profession has so much money been invested by NOT-veterinarians in the ownership of veterinary practices. Both US and International investors have identified the small animal clinical practice as a target for acquisition and consolidation. Starting about 35 years and peaking recently, this marketplace has taken off. For the sellers it has been a huge payday. For the PE and VC buyers, has it exceeded expectations? Or has it created challenges to meet reporting targets? What impact does selling a practice have on the seller, the team, the community? We are just starting to learn more and more about the intended AND UN-intended consequences of the influx of outside money. What does the Magic 8 Ball say about corporate buyers? CHECK BACK LATER