6 Foolproof Tips for Veterinary Practice Relocation

When deciding to relocate your veterinary practice, many considerations come into play. Will your existing clients find the new location convenient to visit? Will your staff members agree with this decision? If you’re moving to a smaller place, what should you do with the extra equipment?

Here, we’re sharing some tips to help you get organized and alleviate some of the stress of a veterinary practice relocation.

1. Plan in Advance

Found the perfect location and can’t wait to move? Congratulations are in order! But before you start frantically packing, take a deep breath and start planning. An excellent way to go about relocation is to create a timeline that outlines moving phases. You don’t have to rush and push yourself to follow through with each deadline, but having a rough plan is a good start.

What should be on your list of to-dos before moving:

a) Location Research:

• Start researching potential new areas for your veterinary practice.
• Look for locations with lower competition and higher demand for veterinary services.

b) Timing the Move:

• Avoid moving during the busy season, such as summer, since it’s the most active season for veterinarians. Choose a quieter time if possible.

c) Client Communication:

• Notify your clients through email and social media posts about the upcoming move.
• Consider telling clients the news in person if they visit for a regular check-up to ensure they are well-informed.

2. Breaking the News to Clients and Staff

This one can get tricky. If you move to the next town over, you may lose a significant chunk of your existing client database. As a means of saying goodbye and thanking them for their loyalty, a discount for specific procedures is a nice touch before parting ways. 

If you are moving to a new neighborhood, you will likely keep your loyal customers. Communicate well in advance that you are relocating, when you expect to open again, and how this will affect your working hours.

When it comes to your staff, clear communication is key. Relocating can affect commuting time and disrupt work-life balance. Having an open and honest dialogue with your team will ensure everyone is aligned and more comfortable with the decision.

If you have to part ways with some of your colleagues, try to help them as much as possible during this transition period. Put a good word in for them among other veterinary practitioners or even share their credentials on LinkedIn. Parting with kindness and respect is the best way to end a professional collaboration.

3. Licenses and Permits

Now comes the painstaking part: updating licenses, permits, and required paperwork. The best practice is to contact local/state authorities and double-check if you comply with all legal and regulatory obligations. 

Make sure you also keep all your ownership paperwork in a secure spot. Whether you are selling your old practice or buying/leasing the new one, having contracts, financial records, and all relevant documents readily accessible is crucial. Maintaining well-organized documentation ensures a smooth transition and helps safeguard your legal and financial interests during these processes.

4. Arrange the New Workspace

Consider turning your new practice into an aesthetically pleasing and efficient environment. Create a warm and inviting reception area with educational materials about pet health and preventive care. Also, a good idea is to create separate waiting areas or separate entrances for dogs and cats, which can help reduce stress for both pets and their owners. Include pet-friendly furniture, such as non-slip surfaces, to make it easier for animals to move around. 

Plan a functional layout that minimizes stress for animals and maximizes efficiency for staff. This includes separate areas for examination, treatment, surgery, and recovery. Implement easy-to-clean, non-porous surfaces throughout the clinic to maintain a high level of cleanliness.

5. Spread the Word About Your Relocation 

While we’ve already discussed the importance of informing your clients about your move, why not create additional buzz? Ensure your website and social media profiles are current, and utilize email marketing to notify your clients, business partners, and fellow veterinary professionals about your relocation.

Another way to generate interest in your veterinary practice is to leave leaflets at local businesses. Visit local bulletin boards, pharmacies, and community centers to inform the locals about your upcoming arrival. 

6. Host a Reopening

What better way to celebrate your new practice than with a grand opening party? Invite your staff, clients, business partners, local businesses, and the wider community to come and learn more about your services. 

Another great idea to interest new potential clients is to give out gift vouchers or discounts for first-time patients. You can create flyers with discounts and a little “About Us” segment enlisting your services, staff, or any new procedures you offer at your new location. 

By following these essential tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition to your new location while maintaining the reputation and excellence your vet practice is known for. Effective planning and open communication are the keys to a successful vet practice relocation.

Are you thinking of relocating?
Leave the selling of your previous veterinary practice to the professionals.
With over two decades of experience, PS Broker is one of the top veterinary brokerage firms in the country, all while maintaining our distinctively boutique approach.

Our team of licensed veterinary practice brokers has the resources, experience, and skill to ensure a smooth transition as you look forward to the next stage of your veterinary career.

Get in touch with our professionals.

Planning to sell your practice? Read more:

• How to Sell Your Vet Practice Stress-Free
• Advantages of Working with a Boutique Veterinary Sales Partner
• Decoding Vet Real Estate Terms: Valuation, Evaluation, and Appraisal