VBJ articles

March 2024

It doesn’t take much to set up a practice – just a good idea, common sense, graft, opportunity and, of course, appropriate funding. However, to last the course and become successful it takes thought and planning…

26 mins

Enabling flexible working, depending on the role, is often the mark of a good employer. Great potential benefits exist for both practices and their staff in enabling more flexibility, but it is important to consider all the details…

21 mins

Creating a new veterinary practice is often a team effort, and that was certainly the case when Beacon VetCare in Cornwall opened last year. It might be the names of Colin and Lizzy Whiting above the door, but this new community business is the work of many hands, as VBJ discovered when we paid a visit last month...

33 mins

February 2024

Synergy Farm Health was formed when two neighbouring West Country practices decided to merge their farm departments in 2009. Since then, Synergy has grown rapidly and is now the UK’s largest independent farm animal practice, as VBJ discovered when we paid a visit last month…

31 mins

In the ever-evolving field of veterinary diagnostics, the traditional “this or that” approach to performing and assessing diagnostic tests in the clinic or at an external laboratory is changing. So, it is vital to ensure your practice is keeping up with the latest developments…

26 mins

IMV Imaging has a reputation for delivering pioneering imaging equipment that makes a real difference to animal care. But IMV also does much to make a difference to the vets and nurses using that equipment, as VBJ discovered when we spoke with Laura Quiney and Amy Haylock…

11 mins

As leaders, we have the privilege of supporting new graduates through their first months and years in practice. We are shaping the next generation of vets, and those first few years will undoubtedly influence their future in this profession, writes Rebecca Robinson…

26 mins

January 2024

This latest VBJ Congress Insight feature explains how your practice and your team can benefit from the association’s upcoming annual event.

15 mins

The world is witnessing the dawn of the AI age and excitement is at its peak as to just how much the technology will change the existing paradigms. In this article, Oli Viner explains how these systems work and discusses how they might impact on society and the veterinary profession…

37 mins

Setting up a specialist ophthalmology practice is always going to be a risky business. But Ioannis Tzouganakis eyed a gap in this highly competitive market, and so far, the risk is paying off, as VBJ discovered when we paid a visit to Vet Eye Care last month…

31 mins

Video solutions and remote access are increasingly being used to give clients new ways to interact with their veterinary practices. This should not be seen as a threat and instead the growth of digital engagement should be embraced for the opportunities it provides, as Ben Sweeney explains…

35 mins

December 2023

When most people decide to open their own veterinary practice, the plan is usually to start small and build at a steady pace from there. But Laura Keyser has decided to take a rather different approach with Claro Hill Vets near Harrogate, as VBJ discovered when we met last month…

31 mins

Advanced imaging was once the preserve of referral centres and teaching hospitals, but an increasing number of practices now offer these modalities in a first opinion setting. However, the integration of these technologies can be a highly complex issue and there is much to consider before making such a significant investment…

16 mins

Merlin Simple Payment Solutions (MerlinSPS) is the new health plan support company recently launched by the MerlinVet Group for UK independent veterinary practices.

16 mins

“From economical systems to top-of-the-line equipment, Probo Veterinary proudly maintains the world’s largest inventory of new and refurbished ultrasound systems – all at affordable prices.”

10 mins

Pet owners traditionally sought veterinary services on a pay-per-visit basis, often delaying essential care due to financial concerns. However, the subscription model has the potential to revolutionise pet health care by offering a more accessible, comprehensive, and cost-effective approach…

30 mins

November 2023

Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists has been in a state of almost constant evolution since the referral practice opened in 2008. Last year saw the latest phase of an ongoing £10 million investment at the site, so VBJ headed to Hampshire to see if it’s been money well spent...

33 mins

The current climate for the veterinary sector remains a busy yet challenging one. Veterinary practice … more

13 mins

Tax efficiency can be critical to business success, irrespective of market sector or profession. But tax can be a quagmire ready to swallow up all who become entangled with it – so, if in any doubt, seek good advice…

26 mins

Most modern businesses depend on good IT infrastructure, but are your systems fit for purpose? We live in a rapidly evolving world where technology has become an indispensable tool in nearly every industry, and the veterinary sector is no exception…

24 mins