Success Story: Redding Veterinary Clinic

The Search for the Perfect Location with Redding Veterinary Clinic

Location: Northern California | Shasta County | Redding

Business Type: Veterinary Services

Small Business Center: Shasta Cascade Small Business Development Center

Assistance Received: Business advising, marketing and web development support

Visit Redding Veterinary Clinic online

Dr. Evelyn Townsell together with her business partner, husband and RVT Jonathan Fleming are the proud new owners of Redding Veterinary Clinic.

Their shared love for veterinary medicine and a desire to keep more veterinary practices independently owned motivated them to purchase their own small animal practice. They were driven by the desire to provide personalized, compassionate and individualized care.   Together, Evelyn and Jon have a combined 40+ years in the industry; however, this is their first business venture.

Their journey to business ownership was not a linear path.   Four years earlier, Evelyn had secured loans, a location, and staff to build a start -up clinic.  However, when Covid-19 hit, those plans came to a halt. Over a year later, Evelyn and Jonathan found another location; however, they were unable to reach an agreement with the landlord. Thus, their plans to open a clinic of their own were paused for a few years.  Then, in 2024, they identified an existing veterinary clinic they wanted to purchase from a retiring solo veterinarian.

Thankfully, they had connected with and formed relationships with the team at Shasta Cascade SBDC.  With tutelage, the budding entrepreneurs were coached how to write a business plan and perform financial forecasting.  This important advice helped when reviewing the clinic’s profitability and allowed them to accurately assess its value. Evelyn and Jonathan were also able to get favorable loan terms to buy the practice, new medical equipment and secure working capital.   Eight months later, the business is busy and thriving.

Both Evelyn and Jon have had several mentors and advisors throughout their careers, but they knew the value of specialized and individualized business advice.  Evelyn worked closely with Joe Rodola, financial advisor from the SBDC.  “He is an expert. His advice and encouragement helped us craft a written and cohesive plan, understand the purchase agreement and secure favorable financing.  We are so thankful to SBDC and their wonderful team.”

If you are in the Redding area and have any veterinary needs, visit Evelyn, Jonathan, and the wonderful and warm team at Redding Veterinary Clinic.

And, if you are looking for support to start your small business in Shasta County, connect with Shasta Cascade Small Business Development Center.

Updated: 3/20/2025