Reflections on Vet Dynamics 2025

HCR Law’s Healthcare team attended the Vet Dynamics Conference at Leonardo Hotel in Hinckley, Leicestershire, from 18 to 20 September 2025.

This year’s theme, “Practice of the Future”, brought together delegates from the independent veterinary community for a programme of talks, workshops and demonstrations on emerging technologies. Topics included AI-powered diagnostics, 3D printing for custom prosthetics and cybersecurity considerations for clinics.

Frank Jennings, Partner in our Technology and Innovation team, joined veterinary IT expert and certified ethical hacker, Jack Peploe, to speak on day one about using AI to support teams and improve outcomes in veterinary practices.

Meanwhile, our Healthcare team engaged with veterinary professionals at our exhibition stand throughout the two-day event.

AI in veterinary practices

Many veterinary professionals are at the early stages of AI adoption. At the Conference, attendees gained clarity on AI use cases, including devising marketing plans and managing staff rosters.

Following Frank’s presentation, they also learned how to manage risks by implementing a policy on use of AI and guiding staff on what tools to use and how. Frank provided guidance on compliance by avoiding the upload of personal or confidential data to free AI tools, considering staff equality issues and ensuring vet practitioners – rather than AI tools – maintain control over treatments.

Conversations with tech suppliers revealed a range of innovative solutions for vet practices – from hardware and diagnostics equipment to portable field devices and software programmes, including AI tools.

• Talk to Frank Jennings for legal advice on adopting AI safely and compliantly.

Veterinary start-ups

Discussions also revealed that many veterinary professionals are considering leaving employed roles to start independent practices.

This trend reflects the steady stream of new start-ups supported in recent years, influenced in part by the CMA investigation.

Leaving employment to start your own practice involves reviewing employment contracts for post-termination restrictions that may affect timelines and permissible actions. It’s a good idea to seek legal advice to avoid costly litigation from former employers.

• Talk to Stephenie Malone for legal advice on healthcare employment.

Issues with tenants and landlords

Delegates raised concerns about issues with corporate tenants, particularly around rent reviews and delays in lease renewals. Some were members of the Veterinary Landlord Association, which HCR supports, while others were unfamiliar with it.

HCR can assist veterinary practices with disputes involving current tenants or third-party landlords. Our real estate healthcare team understands the ins and outs of buying, selling and renting veterinary practices, and can advise on everything from freehold vs leasehold agreements to surveys and planning permission.

• Talk to Hannah Burgess for real estate law support.

Shareholders’ agreements for vet practices

Many delegates sought advice on shareholders’ agreements, which outline shareholders’ rights and obligations in managing and operating a company. These agreements help minimise disputes and typically include provisions on company management, shareholder consent and share transfer procedures.

Our corporate team can guide you throughout your journey as a practice owner – from incorporation to managing growth and supporting you if you decide to exit, sell or merge the business.

• Talk to Franzi Charteris for corporate law support.

HR and employment

The exhibition stand welcomed delegates seeking HR and employment advice, alongside existing clients whose feedback highlighted the value of HCR’s services and how we stand apart from other HR consultancy providers.

With the Employment Rights Bill progressing, many delegates are considering future-proofing their HR practices and culture strategies to attract talent and comply with evolving employment law and best practice.

Our healthcare employment experts understand that sourcing and retaining quality staff is essential to running a successful practice. We help with recruitment, drafting robust contracts and managing disciplinary issues if they arise.

• Talk to Stephenie Malone for employment advice in the healthcare sector, or explore our specialist HR4Vets service through Eagle HR.

Support from HCR Law

HCR Law’s veterinary legal team offers tailored services to support veterinary practices. With experts in all elements of running a successful practice, we provide legal support from start-up guidance and staff contracts to regulatory compliance and embracing new technologies.

We’ll act as an extension of your team so you can focus on caring for animals while we take care of your legal needs.