How to Start a Veterinary Acupuncture Business

Part 1 - How to start a Veterinary Acupuncture business - Background

Pet owners seek out a variety of veterinary services to ensure their four-legged companions are happy and healthy. Unfortunately, many do not respond to standard treatments such as medication and dietary changes. In those instances, veterinarians may refer their patients to a veterinary acupuncturist. Veterinary acupuncturists utilize small needles that are inserted into various pressure points around the animal’s body. These needles spark the release of natural chemicals that aid in bodily healing. Veterinary acupuncture has proven widely successful in treating conditions such as neurologic disorders, muscle injuries, hip dysplasia, gastrointestinal issues, and reproductive disorders.

Our guide is in 3 parts:

• Part 1 - How to start a Veterinary Acupuncture business - Background
• Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
• Part 3 - Action plan to get started

What are the costs involved in opening a veterinary acupuncture business?

Startup costs for a veterinary acupuncturist vary depending on the types of animals treated and whether they choose to offer mobile or in-house treatments. The average budget for setting up a mobile business is $300,000, with some vets reporting costs as high as $750,000. This includes equipping a vehicle, operating licenses, business insurance, an initial pharmaceutical order, and administrative supplies. Starting a stationary clinic requires the lease of office space and retrofitting the clinic with all necessary equipment. Industry leaders report an initial investment of approximately $1 million.

What are the ongoing expenses for a veterinary acupuncture business?

Acupuncturists will need to include a number of items in their ongoing budget. Equipment must be kept clean and maintained through a preventative maintenance plan. Licenses and insurance should be maintained and continuing education should be a top priority. Therapists who perform additional therapies and modalities will need to keep a steady supply of materials. Needles should be properly disposed of after each treatment, utilizing a fresh set for each session. Mobile therapists face overhead costs such as vehicle and equipment maintenance, while therapists who treat patients in-house incur ongoing expenses such as lease payments and utilities.

Who is the target market?

Veterinary acupuncturists should clearly define their target market during the planning stages. Work settings and initial investments vary depending upon their specific interests. Some choose to operate out of a private practice while others work on farms, in laboratories, out of research facilities, or at zoos. Market needs should be thoroughly researched and taken into consideration prior to investment.

How does a veterinary acupuncture business make money?

Veterinary acupuncturists charge a fee for each treatment. Some offer mobile services, while others perform all treatments in-office. Many treat all breeds of animals, while others focus on specific breeds.

How much can you charge customers?

The pricing of acupuncture therapy varies depending upon the type of animal, the nature of the animal’s condition, and the scope of practice. Costs per treatment range from $60 to $300 per session.

How much profit can a veterinary acupuncture business make?

Profits vary depending upon the types of animals treated and overhead expenses. A recent study reports that the average annual earnings of a board-certified specialist are well over $150,000.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Veterinary acupuncturists looking to increase profits should consider offering additional products and services. Industry leaders have found success selling supplements, homeopathic medicines, prescription diet food, and general conventional medications. Additional alternative treatment options, such as massage or herbal therapy, could also prove beneficial.

Day-to-Day and Growth

What happens during a typical day at a veterinary acupuncture business?

For many, veterinary acupuncture is part of a larger treatment plan. Acupuncturists collaborate with the primary vet to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan is in place. They determine which anatomical points should be treated, as well as the duration of therapy. Many treatment plans require more frequent treatments during the initial stages, tapering off over time. Many veterinary acupuncturists will combine acupuncture with behavioral modification programs or a special diet to maximize results. They will follow their patients’ progress, communicating all results to the primary veterinarian and the pet owner. When not treating patients, veterinary acupuncturists research alternative therapies and perform administrative duties associated with the business.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful veterinary acupuncture business?

Most states require that an accredited veterinary acupuncturist hold both a veterinary degree and certification through the American Board of Animal Acupuncture (ABAA). Therapists must have extensive knowledge of animal behavior, anatomy, muscle physiology, and approved acupuncture techniques. Continuing education is typically done through the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (AAVA).

In addition to the appropriate schooling, it’s important that therapists understand animal behavior and treat each patient with the utmost respect. Communication with both the animals and their owner is a critical component for long-term success.

What is the growth potential for a veterinary acupuncture business?

Over the last decade, consumer spending on animal healthcare has increased significantly. This growth is expected to continue with a projected increase of over 19% from 2016 to 2026. As pet owners seek out alternative therapies for their four-legged companions, the need for veterinary acupuncturists is expected to grow steadily. Therapists have the option to maintain or expand their businesses based on their needs and interests.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a veterinary acupuncture business?

Aspiring veterinary acupuncturists are encouraged to seek counsel from a financial advisor before opening their practice. A thorough business plan should address all aspects of the business including practice goals and an analysis of financial data to help maximize their investment.

How and when to build a team

During your business’s infancy stage, you will likely be able to work alone or limit hiring to one technician. As your practice experiences growth, however, it may become difficult to fit all patients into your daily schedule. When looking to hire additional team members, it is critical that each candidate is fully vetted and that the parameters of the position are clearly expressed.

Part 2 - Is a Veterinary Acupuncture business the right fit for you?

Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Veterinary Acupuncture business in 90 days