5 questions to help you choose your veterinary practice model

Dr. Scott Griffith spent most of his practice life as an owner of multidoctor suburban practices that offered boarding and grooming. While his practices were always successful, he says the lifestyle—and his business model—put him on the fast track to burnout. By examining what he wanted from practice and what type of clients he wanted to serve, he found himself in the perfect situation that's reinvigorated his passion.

Whether you're just beginning practice or feeling a little restless and looking for a change, consider these questions:

1. Large or small? Will you be more comfortable with a team of doctors to assist you or as a solo practitioner?

2. Urban or rural? Do you like biking city streets or skiing in the mountains? What hobbies are important to your happiness?

3. What does your community support? Depending on where you choose to practice, there may be local support services, including an emergency veterinary clinic and businesses that offer boarding and grooming.

4. Who are your clients? Finding the clients whose lifestyles and ideals closely reflect your own may help you form closer relationships with the people you serve.

5. What technology is important to you? Are your looking for a veterinary practice with all the latest toys and technology? Or a practice that uses an in-house or outside lab? The sooner you determine what you want, the sooner you can practice happy.