The equine veterinary services industry in the US focuses on providing high-quality medical care specifically for horses. It includes various types of companies, such as veterinary clinics, diagnostic labs, and hospitals that cater to both sport and recreational equines. Services range from preventive care, like vaccinations and health assessments, to specialized treatments in surgery and rehabilitation. The industry is currently nudging toward incorporating advanced technology, including telemedicine and data analytics, which enhance care accessibility and efficiency. Fun fact: the demand for equine veterinary services is on the rise due to increased horse ownership and participation in competitive equine sports.


The list features a mix of investors—venture capital, private equity, and corporate—headquartered across prominent US cities such as New York and San Francisco. These investors range from small teams to large firms with thousands of employees, some founded as far back as the early 20th century. In 2024, the 15 selected investors made a total of 637 investments, showcasing robust activity in this niche market. This eclectic group not only illustrates the growth of capital interest in the sector but also highlights the varied approaches to equine veterinary services funding.


Top 15 Equine Veterinary Services Investors in the US


1. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In 2023, the Government of Canada has been involved in several transactions relevant to the equine veterinary services sector, including grants to the West Prince Veterinary Hospital and Equithérapie LibrePassion, both of which focus on veterinary care for horses. Additionally, the government has supported agricultural initiatives through grants to organizations like the Beef Cattle Research Council, indicating a broader commitment to animal health and welfare, which encompasses equine services as well.


2. Mars

  • Website: mars.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1935
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: mars

Mars, Incorporated is a leading corporate investor based in McLean, Virginia, founded in 1935. The company operates primarily in the pet care, food and nutrition, and snacking industries, focusing on enhancing the lives of pets and consumers through quality offerings and sustainability initiatives. Mars has made significant investments in the veterinary services sector, acquiring several prominent veterinary care providers. Notable transactions include the acquisition of BluePearl Veterinary Partners in 2015, VCA Hospitals in 2017 for $9.1 billion, Banfield Pet Hospital in 2007, AniCura in 2018, and the Linnaeus Group in 2018. These acquisitions demonstrate Mars's commitment to expanding its footprint in veterinary care, which may encompass equine veterinary services as part of their broader strategy in animal health.


3. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has invested in Horsepower Technologies, which raised $4,900,000 in a Series A round in December 2017, indicating a commitment to the equine industry. This investment, along with others in the pet and veterinary space, showcases the fund's interest in sectors related to animal health and services.


4. Companion Fund

  • Website: companionfund.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: companion-fund

Companion Fund is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2016, that specializes in early-stage investments across life sciences, health technologies, and animal health. The firm aims to provide financial support and expertise to innovative companies addressing unmet needs in health. Notable transactions include their investment in MI:RNA, a veterinary diagnostics company that raised $4 million in Series A funding, and their participation in Vedi, a startup that raised $3 million to expand its pet health record technology. Additionally, they co-led a $20 million Series B financing round for Scout Bio, a biotechnology company, which, while not exclusively focused on equine services, contributes to advancements in animal health. These transactions highlight Companion Fund's active role in the animal health sector, making them a relevant investor in equine veterinary services.


5. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Vetwork, a company that raised funds in multiple seed rounds in 2019, indicating a focus on veterinary services. Additionally, they have invested in other pet-related startups like Pawprint and CuidaMiMascota, which, while not exclusively equine-focused, demonstrate their engagement in the broader veterinary services market. This diverse portfolio showcases their commitment to innovative solutions in the veterinary field, including potential applications in equine care.


6. Sosv

  • Website: sosv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 170
  • LinkedIn: sosv

SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a global reach, SOSV connects innovative companies with investors, providing venture capital investment and resources to help startups grow in various sectors, including health and climate technology. Notably, SOSV has invested in Vetherapy, a company focused on veterinary services, indicating their interest in the equine veterinary services sector. Other transactions include investments in companies like Maven Pet, which, while not exclusively equine-focused, shows their engagement in the broader pet and veterinary market. This diverse portfolio highlights SOSV's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the veterinary space.


7. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a leader in asset management, providing solutions to institutional investors and individual clients. The firm has a global reach and leverages its extensive expertise to navigate complex investment landscapes. Notably, KKR has made significant investments in the veterinary services sector, including the acquisition of PetVet Care Centers, which highlights their interest in the veterinary market. Additionally, KKR's acquisition of Pets at Home and their involvement in funding rounds for companies like Argenta and smaXtec further demonstrate their engagement in the pet and veterinary industries, which could extend to equine veterinary services as well.


8. Plug and Play Tech Center


Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. The firm connects startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, primarily targeting businesses in the technology sector. In 2024, they have made 253 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in several companies within the animal health space, including Rex Animal Health, which focuses on veterinary solutions, and Cooper Pet Care, which is involved in pet care services. These transactions highlight their engagement in the veterinary services sector, suggesting a potential interest in equine veterinary services as well.


9. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. Advantage Capital is particularly focused on supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities, offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions within the equine veterinary services context, such as providing debt financing to Southern Veterinary Partners and Vets First Choice. These investments highlight their engagement in the veterinary sector, demonstrating their capability and willingness to support businesses that cater to equine health and wellness.


10. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm founded in 1989, specializing in investment management with a focus on consumer brands across various sectors. The firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. Notably, L Catterton has made significant investments in the veterinary services industry, including a growth investment in Alliance Animal Health and a Series A funding round for Sploot Veterinary Care, which raised $40 million in January 2024. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for companies like WeVets and PetLove, further demonstrating their active role in the veterinary sector. With a strong emphasis on consumer insights, L Catterton aims to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio companies, including those in the veterinary services space.


11. Henry Schein

  • Website: henryschein.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Melville, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1932
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: henry-schein

Henry Schein, Inc. is a health care distributor based in Melville, New York, specializing in dental and medical supplies. Founded in 1932, the company serves a diverse range of health care professionals, enhancing practice performance and patient care. In the veterinary sector, Henry Schein has made significant acquisitions, including a 60% stake in SmartPak Equine LLC, which supplies horse supplements and supplies, highlighting their engagement in the equine veterinary services market. Other notable transactions include the acquisition of RxWorks, a provider of veterinary practice management software, and Provet Holdings Limited, Australasia's largest distributor of veterinary products. These strategic moves demonstrate Henry Schein's commitment to expanding its footprint in the veterinary industry, including equine services.


12. Goldman Sachs

  • Website: goldmansachs.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 59
  • LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1998, headquartered in New York, New York. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, the firm provides a comprehensive range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management. Goldman Sachs serves a diverse clientele, including corporations, financial institutions, and individuals, helping them navigate complex financial challenges. Notably, Goldman Sachs has made significant investments in the veterinary services sector, including a notable investment in MedVet, which aims to enhance specialty healthcare for pets. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for other veterinary-related entities such as Ringpai National Chain Veterinary Hospital and Wellem, indicating their engagement in the veterinary services market. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' interest in supporting the growth of veterinary services, including those that may encompass equine care.


13. Digitalis Ventures


Digitalis Ventures is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2016, that specializes in investing in early-stage companies addressing unmet needs in health, particularly in life sciences, health technologies, and animal health. They provide both capital and expertise to help these businesses grow and innovate. Notably, Digitalis Ventures has participated in several significant transactions in the animal health sector, including investments in Scout Bio, which focuses on gene therapy for chronic diseases in pets, and Gallant Therapeutics, which is advancing health solutions for animals. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to enhancing health technologies that could benefit various animal species, including horses, thereby aligning with the interests of equine veterinary services.


14. Summit Partners

  • Website: summitpartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: summit-partners

Summit Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1984. The firm specializes in growth equity, providing capital and resources to category-leading companies across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and life sciences. Notably, Summit Partners has made significant investments in the veterinary care sector, including a majority stake acquisition in Independent Vetcare Holdings Limited, one of the largest private veterinary groups in the UK, aimed at supporting its expansion in veterinary care. Additionally, they invested in BluePearl Veterinary Partners, further demonstrating their commitment to the veterinary industry. These transactions highlight Summit Partners' strategic focus on companies that are poised for growth, including those in equine veterinary services.


15. Patterson Companies, Inc.


Patterson Companies, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, founded in 1877. The company is a medical supply distributor that provides a wide range of products and services to the dental and animal health markets. They support veterinary professionals with essential technologies and solutions, ensuring efficient operations and quality care for patients and animals. Notably, Patterson has made significant acquisitions in the veterinary sector, including the acquisition of Animal Health International for $1.1 billion, which doubled the size of their veterinary unit. Additionally, they have entered into agreements to acquire Relief Services for Veterinary Practitioners and Animal Care Technologies, focusing on innovative solutions for veterinary practices. Their recent acquisition of Infusion Concepts, a supplier of veterinary infusion and drainage supplies, further emphasizes their commitment to enhancing their veterinary offerings, including those relevant to equine veterinary services.



Equine Veterinary Services Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
MarsMclean, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+19353
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
Companion FundNew York, New York, United States (USA)1-1020161
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
Plug and Play Tech CenterSunnyvale, California, United States (USA)501-10002006253
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
Henry ScheinMelville, New York, United States (USA)10001+19321
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
Digitalis VenturesNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50201613
Summit PartnersBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)51-200198413
Patterson Companies, Inc.Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (USA)5001-1000018772


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