![]() Smith most likely would sell the assets and his hospital would be no more. But sadly, nominal profit margins and the poor chance of recruiting an associate veterinarian, even in a region qualifying for student loan repayment, meant that Dr. Smith was lucky to have built a good team, and everyone made a decent living. Smith, his four team members and their hospital are a prime example of the traditional model of rural mixed animal medicine - that is, trying to be everything to everyone and doing it all on a budget. He hadn’t planned to retire (“I’ll work until I die.”), but health issues and unexpected living expenses necessitated a sale. He had spent nearly three decades building relationships and meeting the need for large and small animal services. He was at the tail end of a long career as a solo practitioner serving a small community and outlying areas. I spoke with a mixed animal practice owner - let’s call him Dr. ![]() So, let’s start by defining what a viable and sustainable practice is not. Whether you’re an aspiring or current mixed animal practice owner or even a small animal hospital owner, I hope you’ll walk away with actionable tips. Instead, I’ll dive into the practical lessons I’ve learned and the strategies for creating a viable, sustainable mixed animal business. I’m not here to discuss the philosophical merits of rural mixed animal practice. The model of rural practice needs to evolve, but I don’t believe that those employed in it are doomed to fail. That’s why I cringe every time I hear someone say, “You can’t make a career out of mixed animal practice.” I’ve heard it from burned-out practitioners as well as veterinary students who had been told there’s no future in mixed animal practice. The first one, which I’ve never removed, is the now-weathered, dusty, black felt Stetson of a mixed animal practice owner. I’ve been fortunate to wear various hats in my career - hospital manager, veterinary association business manager, adjunct faculty member, consultant and small animal practice owner.
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