The economics of a veterinary hospital

The costs involved in building a small animal hospital are discussed. Running costs and gross turnover are compared immediately before and after building. SUMMARY We have attempted to discuss in the frankest possible manner the economics of a purpose‐built small animal hospital. It must be remembered, however, that the financial return is only one factor to be considered in such a project. Pleasant working conditions for veterinary surgeon and lay staff, improved waiting facilities, more efficient reception, better surgical facilities and better patient accommodation have led in this practice to a much improved standard of veterinary medicine and surgery. Thus animal, client, staff and veterinary surgeon all benefit from improved facilities. During the next decade there is little doubt many more hospitals will be built in this country. At the moment many of our colleagues are considering taking what is probably the biggest, single, financial investment of their lives. We hope this paper will assist them in making this decision. Résumé. Les auteurs donnent des précisions sur les dépenses à engager pour la construction d'un hôpital pour petits animaux et sur les frais généraux et le chiffre d'affaires brut immé‐diatement avant et après la construction. Zusammenfassung. Die bei der Errichtung einer kleinen Tierklinik entstehenden Kosten werden besprochen. Laufende Kosten und Bruttoumsatz unmittelbar vor und nach dem Bau werden miteinander verglichen.