Freakonomics Radio 531. Should You Trust Private Equity to Take Care of Your Dog?
54 snips
Jan 19, 2023 
Eileen Applebaum, co-director at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, and Josh Lerner, a Harvard Business School professor, dive into the rising trend of private equity in veterinary care. They explore how big investors are buying local vet practices, potentially reshaping pet care for your scruffy little Max. The discussion covers the implications for service quality, the effects on pet ownership trends, and the controversial financial strategies of private equity. Expect a blend of humor and serious insights into the future of our beloved pets!
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Alligator Vet Visit
- Veterinarian Rose Peters has treated a variety of animals, including alligators and tigers.
- A 12-foot alligator she examined was strapped to a table for safety, despite showing weakness.
Private Equity in Pet Care
- Pet ownership and spending are at record highs, attracting private equity investment into veterinary care.
- This raises concerns about the impact on pet care quality and costs.
NVA's Market Share
- NVA, a large veterinary services company, owns over 1,000 locally branded hospitals but is still considered relatively small.
- The pet care market is highly fragmented, with NVA holding a small share despite its size.
