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Buyer sought for Independent Vetcare, reports suggest
IVC's sale will see a change of ownership for its 300 practices.

Insiders say offers could reach £1.5 billion

The owner of Independent Vetcare (IVC) is rumoured to be preparing to sell it for £1.5 billion, in what would be the sector’s biggest takeover to date, Sky News has reported.

EQT partners, IVC’s controlling shareholder, has instructed bankers at Jefferies to run an auction of the business and its 300 practices. It is seeking offers in the first week of November.

According to Sky News, insiders have said that offers could value the company at up to £1.5 billion. This is compared to the £700 million paid out by BC Partners, which purchased VetPartners in August.

IVC operates in numerous other countries, including Sweden, where it merged with Evidensia Group in 2017.

Commenting on the reports, David Hillier, CEO of IVC said: “There is some current speculation that IVC is potentially seeking additional funding.

"Given the phenomenal growth the company is experiencing this is not particularly surprising and does not imply any change in ownership or strategy.

"For us this is very much business as usual. There is absolutely no change to the underlying business, to the current management team or to the long-term direction of the company.

"We will continue our strong growth, our investment in people, premises and processes in order to provide our stated aim of ‘exceptional veterinary care’”.

 

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.