Independent veterinary group DNA Vetcare has opened a state-of-the-art referral centre in Streatham offering advanced diagnostics and clinical care to pet owners and practices across London.
Advanced Vet Care London is located close to the company’s existing Streatham Hill practice, which had reached capacity after becoming its first 24-hour site. The expansion gives the business additional space and enables more complex cases to be treated within its own network.
Lloyds has provided a £750,000 loan to support the acquisition of the Leigham Court Road property, which DNA Vetcare subsequently fitted out using around £1 million of its own funds.
Advanced Vetcare London has five consultation rooms and three surgical theatres, alongside an MRI scanner and specialist services including neurology, ophthalmology, orthopaedics and keyhole surgery. The centre is also designed to accept referrals from other veterinary practices, creating a new source of specialist care for pets across South London and beyond.
Technology is also playing an increasing role as DNA Vetcare expands. The group uses AI for practical applications including analysing calls to help identify potential animal welfare issues, reviewing social media activity across its practices and helping veterinary staff produce consultation notes.
Founded in 2006 by veterinary surgeons Dane Walker and Alan van Heerden, DNA Vetcare has grown from its first practice in Blackheath into an independently owned veterinary group employing around 800 people. Lloyds has supported the business from its earliest stages, including the acquisition of its first practice, and has continued to back its growth over the years.
Dane Walker, co-founder of DNA Vetcare, said: “We’ve worked in South London throughout our careers, so we knew there was a real need for more specialist veterinary care locally. Advanced Vetcare London gives us the space, equipment and expertise to provide more of that care ourselves.
“Lloyds has supported us since we bought our first practice in 2006, allowing us to grow organically and at a pace that feels right for the business.
“As we’ve expanded, AI has also helped us tackle some of the practical challenges that come with running a larger group.”
Ian Travis, Relationship Manager at Lloyds, said: “DNA Vetcare has grown significantly since we first supported Dane and Alan with their first practice almost 20 years ago.
“Advanced Vetcare London is the latest step in that journey, giving the business additional capacity and enabling it to offer a wider range of specialist services to its clients and other veterinary practices.
“DNA Vetcare has a clear and considered approach to growth, and we’re proud to continue supporting the team as it invests in its facilities, people and future opportunities.”
