Clinic founders want to inject disruption and competition into veterinary sector

A specialist veterinary clinic has opened its doors in Wetherby.

Vets Rob Quinn, Nick Blackburn and Stuart Cooke have launched Vita Referrals to offer orthopaedic and neuro surgery to pets in Yorkshire and beyond.

The clinic aims to ensure every pet owner has access to reasonably priced surgical care.

It is based on the Thorp Park Estate in Wetherby. A team of 15 are already in place, which will rise to 20 within the next year.

Clients will need to be referred to the clinic by a vet, but pet owners are able to request their preferred choice of treatment provider.

Vita Referrals will offer treatment to pets with a range of injuries and illnesses including spinal conditions, cruciate disease, fractures, arthritis and elbow disease. Its three founders share over 60 years of combined experience.

Quinn said: “Many pet-owners are unaware that there are three major companies which own the vast majority of veterinary practices in the UK.

“That is not necessarily of benefit to those using the services, as prices can rise when competition is low. Myself, Nick and Stuart felt very strongly that there was a different way to do things.

“No one becomes a vet to see animals suffer or pet-owners struggle to make tough financial decisions.

“We knew it was possible to offer a top quality service, with the best facilities and equipment available, whilst also keeping prices at a realistic level – and that is where the vision for Vita Referrals came from.

“It’s time there was more disruption and competition in the sector – and that will, ultimately, only be a good thing for pets, owners and vets.”