Non-profit veterinary practices can encompass a variety of different business models, each with its own unique equipment needs and purchasing considerations.
Here are some things to think about when planning a new non-profit or purchasing equipment for an existing non-profit organization.
Wish List
Some not-for-profit clinics help pet owners of limited financial means with basic wellness services like vaccinations, while others might include spay/neuter surgeries or even a wide range of care for illnesses. Other non-profits are rescue organizations helping dogs, cats, or other species, or even exotic animals overseas. And many other possibilities exist.
The first step is to envision the mission, goals, and practice style of the clinic. Which species will be helped? Which services will be offered—for example, are surgeries, diagnostic imaging, or dental care on the list?
If the clinic will be serving owned pets, are there eligibility requirements for the pet owners (such as proof of low income), or will everyone be able to access the facility’s care?
The plan might need to change based on a variety of factors, including local business laws and regulations and other practical considerations like finances. But having a clear vision for the practice will help new non-profit owners focus on their goals and top priorities when tough decisions must be made.
Budget, Funds, and Regulations
A clear goal or vision is crucial to starting a non-profit that helps pets or other animals. But unfortunately, the goal must fit into a realistic business plan to become a reality and be sustainable in the long term. Keeping the doors open is the best way to help most animals.
A business plan is a great place to start. This includes important considerations such as the budget. Equipment purchases, operating costs, staff compensation, insurance, rent and overhead expenses, marketing and fundraising efforts, tax considerations, and many other financial factors can make or break any business, including non-profits.
Compared to for-profit businesses, non-profits also have unique legal and financial requirements, which may have some variability between jurisdictions.
For example, there may be specific guidelines in terms of how the money is tracked and utilized and how (and how much) employees are compensated. And businesses might be required to hold regular member or shareholder meetings, with meeting notes submitted to a local regulatory body.
While there can be enormous tax benefits to having a non-profit business, there’s also the matter of figuring out how money will come into the business. Is there a small charge for services (low-cost versus free)? How much can be reliably raised in donations in that city or location? And are there grants or other helpful programs to apply for?
This can be quite complicated, with high stakes, so it’s smart to consult a business, legal, and financial professionals who have some familiarity with veterinary businesses.
Experts are there for a reason, and they can help create a plan for a financially feasible clinic.
Where to Buy or Source Equipment
With all of the above sorted out, a veterinarian will have a better idea of which equipment they can and should purchase for their new non-profit. At this stage—or, if searching for affordable equipment for an already-established non-profit—here are a few ideas for sourcing equipment…
Look for used veterinary equipment. Talk to local colleagues who are looking to upgrade their veterinary digital x-ray system, anesthesia monitoring equipment, or even smaller items like Tonopens or otoscopes. They might be willing to sell at a discount. Also, look for veterinary equipment selling sites such as usedvetequipment.com or explore sites like eBay.
Ask for equipment donations. It never hurts to ask! Perhaps other vets in the area, or even local human hospitals, are planning to get rid of old equipment when they upgrade. There could be tax benefits to them for donating, so it’s possible the exchange could be mutually beneficial.
Establish relationships with vendors. They might have demo or loaner models, or other gently used items they are willing to part with for a reasonable cost.
Hold a fundraiser. Explain to the local community which equipment you are looking to purchase and why, i.e., how it will help the pets you serve.
Look for grants. Some equipment providers or charitable organizations might be able to fund equipment for non-profit organizations.
Work with local veterinary clinics. Some of them might be willing to rent out their space and equipment to a non-profit or rescue organization. This could be a more economical alternative to purchasing equipment.
Besides purchase costs, consider other factors like reliability, the size of the equipment (for example, whether the new veterinary DR system will physically fit into the x-ray suite), portability if there is more than one location, and additional costs (shipping, installation, and warranties or costs of servicing/maintaining the equipment).
A little planning can go a long way toward finding equipment at a reasonable cost to help support a non-profit veterinary practice’s mission.
Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM
