Veterinary Services

Veterinary Services

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry employ licensed veterinary practitioners and provide medical, dental, and health care services for animals. Major companies include Banfield Pet Hospital, National Veterinary Associates, and VCA Animal Hospitals (all based in the US), as well as CVS Group plc (UK) and Greencross Vets (Australia).

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven mainly by the number of cats and dogs kept as pets, which is affected by demographics and economic conditions. The profitability of an individual clinic depends on marketing skills, reputation, and the range of services the practice offers. Large practices enjoy economies of scale in marketing as well as better access to capital to invest in onsite diagnostic equipment. Small practices can compete effectively by specializing in particular animals or types of treatment, or by serving an exclusive area. The US industry is highly fragmented: the 50 largest companies account for about 20% of revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Animal hospitals and clinics treat injuries and diseases but derive most revenue from animal health procedures like neutering and spaying, vaccinations, and regular checkups. Some animal hospitals also bathe, groom, board, and provide testing services. Nonsurgical treatment accounts for about 30% of the industry revenue, followed by routine veterinary examinations (about 25%), surgical treatment of animals (about 15%), and veterinary laboratory services (about 15%).