Source: Veterinary Advantage
In Q1 2025, 262 enterprise-owned Veterinary practices closed permanently—a significant rise from the previous quarter—according to the Enterprise Practice Database. Nearly half of these closures involved Mars-owned practices, though shutdowns among other corporate groups also surged by 60%. Financial pressures, shifting priorities from expansion to operational efficiency, and an ongoing shortage of veterinarians have contributed to these closures. Understaffed clinics often deliver inconsistent service, leading to lower customer satisfaction and eventual shutdown.
Google ratings provide insight into customer sentiment and may signal trouble ahead. Closed practices had an average rating of 4.37 compared to 4.50 for those still open, suggesting subtle yet consistent dissatisfaction. More telling, however, is the number of reviews: closed practices averaged 228 reviews, while open ones had 380—potentially indicating weaker client engagement and foot traffic. The report urges Veterinary businesses to monitor both their online ratings and review volume as vital indicators of community connection and long-term viability in a competitive market.
Read the full story HERE: https://vet-advantage.com/vet-advantage/google-ratings/