Opening a Veterinary Clinic Checklist
Ready to launch a new veterinary practice? Our downloadable checklist will help you stay on top of the key legal requirements of opening a clinic.

Form a Corporate Entity
- Determine the right entity type
- File startup documents with the state
- Draft operating agreement or bylaws
- Obtain your EIN
Review and Negotiate Contracts
- Partnership agreements
- Commercial leases & build-outs
- Liability insurance policy
- Equipment leases or purchases
- Vendor contracts
Establish and Manage Your Workforce
- Employment contracts
- Employee handbook
- Scope of practice guidelines
- Hiring and firing support
Create Practice Forms and Policies
- Informed consent
- Procedure authorization forms
- Website terms & conditions Contaminated/recalled food or medicine policy
- Charity care program policy
- Animal rescue partnerships
Demonstrate Regulatory Compliance
- Controlled substances (DEA)
- Medical records
- Kickbacks
- Hazardous waste (EPA)
- Employee health and safety (OSHA)
Innovate and Expand
- Telemedicine (“televet”) visits
- Alternative and holistic care options
- Concierge, membership-based options
- In-home pet care
- Purchase, sell, or merge your practice
For help with any of your veterinary practice startup, compliance, or liability management needs, contact the experienced attorneys at Jackson LLP Healthcare Lawyers. Start with a free 15-minute consultation to find out if we are the right fit for you.