WOOF-2014.9.30-10Q

 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
___________________________________________________ 
FORM 10-Q 
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2014
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number: 001-16783
___________________________________________________ 
VCA Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Delaware
 
95-4097995
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
 
Identification No.)
12401 West Olympic Boulevard
Los Angeles, California 90064-1022
(Address of principal executive offices)
(310) 571-6500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [  ].
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [X] No [  ].
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.:
Large accelerated filer [X]
  
Accelerated filer [  ]
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer [  ]
  
Smaller reporting company [  ]
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
  
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [  ] No [X].
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: common stock, $0.001 par value, 84,124,955 shares as of November 3, 2014.
 
 
 
 
 



VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Form 10-Q
September 30, 2014
Table of Contents

Page
Number
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



PART I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except par value)
 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
Assets
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
126,507

 
$
125,029

Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for uncollectible accounts of $18,292 and $17,702 at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively
65,603

 
59,900

Inventory
50,325

 
55,067

Prepaid expenses and other
32,830

 
25,417

Deferred income taxes
28,921

 
28,907

Prepaid income taxes

 
15,434

Total current assets
304,186

 
309,754

Property and equipment, net
450,617

 
448,366

Goodwill
1,368,230

 
1,330,917

Other intangible assets, net
78,611

 
86,671

Notes receivable
3,016

 
3,454

Deferred financing costs, net
8,308

 
2,987

Other
59,517

 
55,632

Total assets
$
2,272,485

 
$
2,237,781

Liabilities and Equity
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Current portion of long-term debt
$
11,687

 
$
51,087

Accounts payable
38,858

 
36,962

Accrued payroll and related liabilities
72,221

 
57,337

Income tax payable
3,078

 

Other accrued liabilities
64,414

 
58,762

Total current liabilities
190,258

 
204,148

Long-term debt, less current portion
648,723

 
568,558

Deferred income taxes
90,428

 
100,099

Other liabilities
35,811

 
36,758

Total liabilities
965,220

 
909,563

Commitments and contingencies

 

Redeemable noncontrolling interests
11,014

 
10,678

Preferred stock, par value $0.001, 11,000 shares authorized, none outstanding

 

VCA Inc. stockholders’ equity:
 
 
 
Common stock, par value $0.001, 175,000 shares authorized, 85,292 and 88,508 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively
85

 
89

Additional paid-in capital
261,812

 
384,721

Retained earnings
1,035,799

 
928,720

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(12,581
)
 
(6,190
)
Total VCA Inc. stockholders’ equity
1,285,115

 
1,307,340

Noncontrolling interests
11,136

 
10,200

Total equity
1,296,251

 
1,317,540

Total liabilities and equity
$
2,272,485

 
$
2,237,781



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

1


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Income Statements
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)



 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Revenue
$
499,577

 
$
464,055

 
$
1,438,556

 
$
1,367,916

Direct costs
375,820

 
353,378

 
1,092,933

 
1,046,022

Gross profit
123,757

 
110,677

 
345,623

 
321,894

Selling, general and administrative expense
42,792

 
38,747

 
124,163

 
117,616

Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets
27,019

 

 
27,019

 

Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets
470

 
(109
)
 
(173
)
 
1,187

Operating income
53,476

 
72,039

 
194,614

 
203,091

Interest expense, net
4,367

 
4,474

 
12,564

 
14,439

Debt retirement costs
1,709

 

 
1,709

 

Other expense (income)
188

 
(86
)
 
178

 
(113
)
Income before provision for income taxes
47,212

 
67,651

 
180,163

 
188,765

Provision for income taxes
18,261

 
25,740

 
69,389

 
71,571

Net income
28,951

 
41,911

 
110,774

 
117,194

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
1,499

 
1,264

 
3,695

 
4,400

Net income attributable to VCA Inc.
$
27,452

 
$
40,647

 
$
107,079

 
$
112,794

Basic earnings per share
$
0.32

 
$
0.46

 
$
1.22

 
$
1.27

Diluted earnings per share
$
0.31

 
$
0.45

 
$
1.21

 
$
1.26

Weighted-average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share
86,274

 
88,834

 
87,543

 
88,583

Weighted-average shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share
87,360

 
89,845

 
88,665

 
89,659



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

2


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Net income(1) 
$
28,951

 
$
41,911

 
$
110,774

 
$
117,194

Other comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
(6,207
)
 
2,633

 
(6,919
)
 
(3,708
)
Other comprehensive (loss) income
(6,207
)
 
2,633

 
(6,919
)
 
(3,708
)
Total comprehensive income
22,744

 
44,544

 
103,855

 
113,486

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests(1) 
1,021

 
1,264

 
3,167

 
4,400

Comprehensive income attributable to VCA Inc.
$
21,723

 
$
43,280

 
$
100,688

 
$
109,086

 ____________________________
(1) 
Includes approximately $1.9 million and $2.6 million of net income related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests combined for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.



































The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

3


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Equity
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)


 
Common Stock
 
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 Total
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
 
Balances, December 31, 2012
88,372

 
$
88

 
$
390,359

 
$
791,209

 
$
1,847

 
$
10,890

 
$
1,194,393

Net income (excludes $1,152 and $1,475 related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests, respectively).

 

 

 
112,794

 

 
1,773

 
114,567

Other comprehensive loss

 

 

 

 
(3,708
)
 

 
(3,708
)
Formation of noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 
1,806

 
1,806

Distribution to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 
(1,175
)
 
(1,175
)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests

 

 
(976
)
 

 

 
(4,309
)
 
(5,285
)
Share-based compensation

 

 
10,340

 

 

 

 
10,340

Issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans
1,313

 
1

 
15,110

 

 

 

 
15,111

Stock repurchases
(737
)
 

 
(19,384
)
 

 

 

 
(19,384
)
Excess tax benefit from stock options

 

 
2,654

 

 

 

 
2,654

Tax benefit and other from stock options and awards

 

 
(4
)
 

 

 

 
(4
)
Other

 

 

 

 

 
163

 
163

Balances, September 30, 2013
88,948

 
89

 
398,099

 
904,003

 
(1,861
)
 
9,148

 
1,309,478

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balances, December 31, 2013
88,508

 
$
89

 
$
384,721

 
$
928,720

 
$
(6,190
)
 
$
10,200

 
$
1,317,540

Net income (excludes $723 and $1,172 related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests, respectively).

 

 

 
107,079

 

 
1,800

 
108,879

Other comprehensive loss (excludes $358 related to mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests).

 

 

 

 
(6,391
)
 
(170
)
 
(6,561
)
Formation of noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 
933

 
933

Distribution to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 
(1,627
)
 
(1,627
)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests

 

 
29

 

 

 

 
29

Share-based compensation

 

 
12,234

 

 

 

 
12,234

Issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans
614

 

 
926

 

 

 

 
926

Stock repurchases
(3,830
)
 
(4
)
 
(139,906
)
 

 

 

 
(139,910
)
Excess tax benefit from stock options

 

 
3,808

 

 

 

 
3,808

Balances, September 30, 2014
85,292

 
$
85

 
$
261,812

 
$
1,035,799

 
$
(12,581
)
 
$
11,136

 
$
1,296,251


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

4


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
110,774

 
$
117,194

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets
27,019

 

Depreciation and amortization
59,659

 
57,783

Amortization of debt issue costs
957

 
937

Provision for uncollectible accounts
4,388

 
5,380

Debt retirement costs
1,709

 

Net (gain) loss on sale or disposal of assets
(173
)
 
1,187

Share-based compensation
12,234

 
10,340

Deferred income taxes

 
2,868

Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
(3,808
)
 
(2,654
)
Other
381

 
(251
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
Trade accounts receivable
(9,678
)
 
(9,986
)
Inventory, prepaid expense and other assets
(8,233
)
 
(1,634
)
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities
2,920

 
4,941

Accrued payroll and related liabilities
14,761

 
11,408

Income taxes
12,137

 
21,492

Net cash provided by operating activities
225,047

 
219,005

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(62,122
)
 
(39,640
)
Real estate acquired in connection with business acquisitions
(3,293
)
 
(1,208
)
Capital expenditures
(50,093
)
 
(52,682
)
Proceeds from sale or disposal of assets
4,464

 
905

Other
(202
)
 
(1,738
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(111,246
)
 
(94,363
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Repayment of debt
(563,976
)
 
(28,507
)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
600,000

 

Payment of financing costs
(7,987
)
 

Distributions to noncontrolling interest partners
(3,577
)
 
(3,324
)
Purchase of existing noncontrolling interests
(326
)
 
(5,727
)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock under stock option plans
926

 
15,111

Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
3,808

 
2,654

Repurchase of common stock
(139,910
)
 
(19,384
)
Other
(838
)
 
(160
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(111,880
)
 
(39,337
)
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(443
)
 
(566
)
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
1,478

 
84,739

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
125,029

 
68,435

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
126,507

 
$
153,174

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

5


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Continued
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
 
 
 
Interest paid
$
10,633

 
$
9,487

Income taxes paid
$
57,108

 
$
47,305

 
 
 
 
Supplemental schedule of noncash investing and financing activities:
 
 
 
Detail of acquisitions:
 
 
 
Fair value of assets acquired
$
76,686

 
$
58,825

Fair value of pre-existing investment
(2,014
)
 

Noncontrolling interest
(1,705
)
 
(5,406
)
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of acquired cash
(62,122
)
 
(39,640
)
Assumed debt
(4,483
)
 
(2,360
)
Contingent consideration
(2,531
)
 
(1,120
)
Holdbacks
(2,900
)
 
(892
)
Other liabilities assumed
$
931

 
$
9,407

 
 
 
 
Other noncash items:
 
 
 
Capital lease additions
$

 
$
21,668



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

6


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)

 
1.
Nature of Operations
Our company, VCA Inc. (“VCA”) is a Delaware corporation formed in 1986 and is based in Los Angeles, California. We are an animal healthcare company with the following five operating segments: animal hospitals (“Animal Hospital”), veterinary diagnostic laboratories (“Laboratory”), veterinary medical technology (“Medical Technology”), Vetstreet, and Camp Bow Wow Franchising, Inc. (f/k/a D.O.G. Enterprises, LLC) ("Camp Bow Wow"). Our operating segments are aggregated into two reportable segments “Animal Hospital” and “Laboratory.” Our Medical Technology, Vetstreet and Camp Bow Wow operating segments are combined in our “All Other” category. See Footnote 9, “Lines of Business within these notes to unaudited condensed, consolidated financial statements.
Our animal hospitals offer a full range of general medical and surgical services for companion animals. Our animal hospitals treat diseases and injuries, provide pharmaceutical products and perform a variety of pet-wellness programs, including health examinations, diagnostic testing, vaccinations, spaying, neutering and dental care. At September 30, 2014, we operated or managed 622 animal hospitals throughout 41 states and four Canadian provinces.
We operate a full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory network serving all 50 states and certain areas in Canada. Our laboratory network provides sophisticated testing and consulting services used by veterinarians in the detection, diagnosis, evaluation, monitoring, treatment and prevention of diseases and other conditions affecting animals. At September 30, 2014, we operated 59 laboratories of various sizes located strategically throughout the United States and Canada.
Our Medical Technology business sells digital radiography and ultrasound imaging equipment, provides education and training on the use of that equipment, provides consulting and mobile imaging services, and sells software and ancillary services to the veterinary market.
Our Vetstreet business provides several different services to the veterinary community including, online communications, professional education, marketing solutions and a home delivery platform for independent animal hospitals.
Our Camp Bow Wow business operates and franchises a premier provider of pet services including dog day care, overnight boarding, grooming and other ancillary services at specially designed pet care facilities, principally under the trademark Camp Bow Wow®.  As of September 30, 2014, there were 125 Camp Bow Wow® franchise locations operating in 37 states and one Canadian province. 
The practice of veterinary medicine is subject to seasonal fluctuation. In particular, demand for veterinary services is significantly higher during the warmer months because pets spend a greater amount of time outdoors where they are more likely to be injured and are more susceptible to disease and parasites. In addition, use of veterinary services may be affected by levels of flea infestation, heartworms and ticks, and the number of daylight hours.

2.
Basis of Presentation
Our accompanying unaudited, condensed, consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and in accordance with the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the disclosures required by GAAP for annual financial statements as permitted under applicable rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, all normal recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2014. For further information, refer to our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The preparation of our condensed, consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our condensed, consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. Actual results could differ from those estimates.





7


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


3.
Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets
Goodwill
The following table presents the changes in the carrying amount of our goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 (in thousands):
 
 
Animal
Hospital
 
Laboratory
 
All Other
 
Total
Balance as of December 31, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
$
1,216,581

 
$
96,871

 
$
138,276

 
$
1,451,728

Accumulated impairment losses

 

 
(120,811
)
 
(120,811
)
Subtotal
1,216,581

 
96,871

 
17,465

 
1,330,917

Goodwill acquired
46,475

 
27

 
6,669

 
53,171

Goodwill impairment

 

 
(9,246
)
 
(9,246
)
Foreign translation adjustment
(5,176
)
 
(28
)
 

 
(5,204
)
Other (1)
(1,408
)
 

 

 
(1,408
)
Balance as of September 30, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
1,256,472

 
96,870

 
144,945

 
1,498,287

Accumulated impairment losses

 

 
(130,057
)
 
(130,057
)
Subtotal
$
1,256,472

 
$
96,870

 
$
14,888

 
$
1,368,230

 ____________________________

(1) 
"Other" primarily includes immaterial measurement period adjustments and an immaterial write-off related to the sale of an animal hospital.
Vetstreet Goodwill Impairment Charge

Impairment testing for goodwill is performed at least annually at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment (also known as a component). We perform our annual impairment test as of October 31st. Goodwill is also tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value.

With respect to our Vetstreet reporting unit, during 2013 we established a Fiscal 2014 Operating and Financial Performance - Turnaround Plan. The Plan anticipated the launch of numerous product enhancements designed to restore our competitive advantage in the marketplace. Although certain of these product enhancements were delivered in a timely fashion, others were not. In addition, increasing competition created the need for additional product enhancements to those already planned. Given the less than anticipated impact of new product offerings combined with the the impact of increased competition, we determined that a triggering event had occurred with respect to goodwill and long-lived assets of our Vetstreet reporting unit. Accordingly, we established revised multi-year projections and performed an interim test of Vetstreet’s recorded goodwill and long-lived assets for impairment in the third quarter of 2014, prior to our annual October 31, 2014 test. As a result of our review, we determined that goodwill related to our Vetstreet reporting unit was impaired.

The impairment test for goodwill uses a two-step approach. Step one compares the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value including goodwill. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, there is a potential impairment and step two must be performed. Step two compares the carrying value of the reporting unit's goodwill to its implied fair value (i.e., the fair value of the reporting unit less the fair value of the unit's assets and liabilities, including identifiable intangible assets). If the carrying value of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, the excess is recorded as an impairment.








8


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


3.
Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets, continued

We calculate the implied fair value of the reporting unit utilizing the income approach. The income approach is based on a discounted cash flow analysis and calculates the fair value of the reporting unit by estimating the after-tax cash flows attributable to the reporting unit and then discounting the after-tax cash flows to a present value, using a weighted average cost of capital ("WACC"). The WACC utilized in our analysis using the income approach was 14.0%. The WACC is an estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required for equity and debt holders of a business enterprise. The reporting unit's cost of equity and debt was developed based on data and factors relevant to the economy, the industry and the reporting unit. The cost of equity was estimated using the capital asset pricing model ("CAPM"). The CAPM uses a risk-free rate of return and an appropriate market risk premium for equity investments and the specific risks of the investment. The analysis also included comparisons to a group of guideline companies engaged in the same or similar businesses. The cost of debt was estimated using the current after-tax average borrowing cost that a market participant would expect to pay to obtain its debt financing assuming a target capital structure.

Based on the above analysis, it was determined that the carrying value of the Vetstreet reporting unit including goodwill exceeded the fair value of the reporting unit, requiring us to perform step two of the goodwill impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any.

In performing step two of the goodwill impairment test, we compared the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill to its carrying value. As the carrying value of Vetstreet's goodwill exceeded its implied fair value we recognized a non-cash, goodwill impairment charge of $9.2 million, representing the entire balance of Vetstreet's goodwill. The impairment charge was recognized during the quarter ended September 30, 2014.

The fair value estimates used in the goodwill impairment analysis required significant judgment. The Company's fair value estimates for purposes of determining the goodwill impairment charge are considered Level 3 fair value measurements.

Other Intangible Assets
Our acquisition related amortizable intangible assets at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
 
 
As of September 30, 2014
 
As of December 31, 2013
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
Non-contractual customer relationships
$
98,904

 
$
(50,033
)
 
$
48,871

 
$
109,842

 
$
(41,895
)
 
$
67,947

Covenants not-to-compete
9,170

 
(4,383
)
 
4,787

 
8,843

 
(4,661
)
 
4,182

Favorable lease assets
9,591

 
(4,844
)
 
4,747

 
7,458

 
(4,373
)
 
3,085

Trademarks
13,104

 
(4,608
)
 
8,496

 
13,115

 
(4,194
)
 
8,921

Contracts
460

 
(363
)
 
97

 
608

 
(305
)
 
303

Technology
2,913

 
(1,613
)
 
1,300

 
5,240

 
(3,015
)
 
2,225

Client lists

 

 

 
50

 
(42
)
 
8

Franchise rights
10,400

 
(87
)
 
10,313

 

 

 

Total
$
144,542

 
$
(65,931
)
 
$
78,611

 
$
145,156

 
$
(58,485
)
 
$
86,671




9


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


3.
Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets, continued

The recoverability of the carrying values of all fixed assets and intangible assets with finite lives are re-evaluated when events or changes in circumstances indicate an asset's value may be impaired. We perform a quarterly review of fixed assets and identified intangible assets to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that the useful life is shorter than we had originally estimated or that the carrying amount of assets may not be recoverable. If such facts and circumstances exist, we assess recoverability by comparing the projected undiscounted net cash flows associated with the related asset or group of assets over their remaining lives against their respective carrying amounts. Impairments, if any, are based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of those assets. If the useful life is shorter than originally estimated, we accelerate the rate of amortization and amortize the remaining carrying value over the new shorter useful life.

We recorded a $13.1 million intangible asset impairment charge related to non-contractual customer relationships, technology, trademarks and contracts related to our above noted interim impairment test of Vetstreet. We also recorded a fixed asset impairment of $4.7 million. Our determination during interim testing that the fair value of the intangible assets was less than carrying value was based upon changes in our estimate of forecasted cash flows. The fair values of the impaired intangibles were calculated utilizing valuation methods consisting primarily of discounted cash flow techniques, and market comparables, where applicable. The impairment charges are included under the caption "Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets" in our consolidated income statement.

The following table summarizes our aggregate amortization expense related to acquisition related intangible assets (in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Aggregate amortization expense
$
5,231

 
$
5,588

 
$
15,605

 
$
16,153

The estimated amortization expense related to acquisition related intangible assets for the remainder of 2014 and each of the succeeding years thereafter, as of September 30, 2014, is as follows (in thousands):

Definite-lived intangible assets:
 
Remainder of 2014
$
5,147

2015
19,232

2016
16,321

2017
10,114

2018
6,677

Thereafter
20,250

Total
$
77,741

Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
 
Trademarks
870

Total intangible assets
$
78,611

 






10


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


4.
Acquisitions

The table below reflects the activity related to the acquisitions and dispositions of our animal hospitals and laboratories during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively:

 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Animal Hospitals:
 
 
 
Acquisitions
23

 
14

Acquisitions, merged
(4
)
 
(2
)
Sold, closed or merged
(6
)
 
(15
)
Net increase (decrease)
13

 
(3
)
 
 
 
 
Laboratories:
 
 
 
Acquisitions

 
1

Created
3

 

Net increase
3

 
1

Animal Hospital Acquisitions
The purchase price allocations for the acquisitions in the table below are preliminary. However, adjustments, if any, are not expected to be material. The measurement periods for purchase price allocations do not exceed 12 months from the acquisition date. The following table summarizes the aggregate consideration for our independent animal hospitals acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, (in thousands):

 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Consideration:
 
 
 
  Cash, net of cash acquired
$
46,948

 
$
39,640

  Assumed debt
4,160

 
2,360

  Holdbacks
1,400

 
892

  Earn-out contingent consideration
721

 
1,120

      Fair value of total consideration transferred
$
53,229

 
$
44,012

 
 
 
 
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
 
 
 
  Tangible assets
$
2,317

 
$
13,494

  Identifiable intangible assets
8,176

 
12,774

  Goodwill (1)
46,502

 
32,557

  Other liabilities assumed
(47
)
 
(9,407
)
      Fair value of assets acquired
$
56,948

 
$
49,418

Noncontrolling interest
(1,705
)
 
(5,406
)
Fair value of pre-existing investment
(2,014
)
 

Total
$
53,229

 
$
44,012

____________________________




11


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


4.
Acquisitions, continued

(1)  
We expect that $36.6 million and $12.9 million of the goodwill recorded for these acquisitions, as of September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, will be fully deductible for income tax purposes.

In addition to the purchase price listed above, we made cash payments for real estate acquired in connection with our purchase of animal hospitals totaling $3.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. There were $1.2 million in cash payments made for real estate for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
Camp Bow Wow
On August 15, 2014, we acquired D.O.G. Enterprises, LLC for $17.0 million with up to an additional $3.0 million that may be earned over the next three years. Camp Bow Wow primarily operates and franchises a premier provider of pet services including dog day care, overnight boarding, grooming and other ancillary services at specially designed pet care facilities, principally under the trademark Camp Bow Wow®.  As of September 30, 2014, there were 125 Camp Bow Wow® franchise locations operating in 37 states and one Canadian province. 

The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price allocation (in thousands):

Consideration:
 
  Cash, net of cash acquired
$
15,174

  Assumed debt
323

  Holdbacks
1,500

  Earn-out contingent consideration
1,810

      Fair value of total consideration transferred
$
18,807

 
 
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
 
  Tangible assets
$
942

  Identifiable intangible assets
12,080

  Goodwill (1)
6,669

  Other liabilities assumed
(884
)
Total
$
18,807

____________________________

(1)  
As of September 30, 2014, we expect that the full amount of goodwill recorded for this acquisition will be deductible for income tax purposes.

The purchase price allocation for Camp Bow Wow is preliminary and is pending the completion of tangible and intangible asset valuations.





12


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


5.
Other Accrued Liabilities
Other accrued liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
 
As of September 30, 2014
 
As of December 31, 2013
Deferred revenue
$
11,399

 
$
11,190

Accrued health insurance
4,439

 
5,479

Deferred rent
4,125

 
4,331

Accrued other insurance
4,200

 
4,381

Miscellaneous accrued taxes(1)
4,270

 
2,804

Accrued workers' compensation
6,828

 
3,267

Holdbacks and earn-outs
3,629

 
3,040

Customer deposits
3,314

 
3,075

Accrued consulting fees
3,312

 
3,028

Accrued lease payments
1,744

 
2,547

Other
17,154

 
15,620

 
$
64,414

 
$
58,762

____________________________
(1)    Includes property, sales and use taxes.

 
6.
Long-Term Obligations
New Senior Credit Facility

On August 27, 2014, we entered into a new senior credit facility with various lenders for $1.4 billion of senior secured credit facilities with Bank of America, N.A., as the administrative agent, swingline lender and Letter of Credit issuer, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and Suntrust Bank as co-syndication agents (the "New Senior Credit Facility). The New Senior Credit Facility replaced our existing senior credit facility providing for $534 million of term notes and a $125 million revolving credit facility. The New Senior Credit Facility which provided for $600 million of senior secured term notes and an $800 million senior secured revolving facility, which may be used to borrow, on a same-day notice under a swing line, the lesser of $25 million and the aggregate unused amount of the revolving credit facility then in effect. In addition to refinancing all outstanding amounts under our existing credit agreement, borrowings under our New Senior Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purchases, including permitted share repurchases.

In connection with the New Senior Credit Facility, we incurred $8.0 million in financing costs, of which approximately $6.5 million were capitalized as deferred financing costs and $1.5 million were recognized as part of net income. In addition, we expensed $0.2 million of previously capitalized deferred financing costs associated with lenders under our existing senior credit facility who are not lenders under our New Senior Credit Facility.
















13


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


6.
Long-Term Obligations, continued

The following table summarizes our long-term obligations at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):

 
 
 
 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
Senior term notes
 
Notes payable, maturing in 2019, secured by assets, variable interest rate (1.91% and 1.92% at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)
 
600,000

 
556,914

Revolving credit
 
Revolving line of credit, maturing in 2019, secured by assets, variable interest rate
 

 

Secured seller notes
 
Notes payable matures in 2014, secured by assets and stock of certain subsidiaries, with interest rate of 10.0%
 
230

 
230

 
 
Total debt obligations
 
600,230

 
557,144

 
 
Capital lease obligations
 
60,180

 
62,501

 
 
 
 
660,410

 
619,645

 
 
Less — current portion
 
(11,687
)
 
(51,087
)
 
 
 
 
$
648,723

 
$
568,558


Interest Rate. In general, borrowings under the New Senior Credit Facility (including swing line borrowings) bear interest, at our option, on either:

the base rate (as defined below) plus the applicable margin of 0.75% (Pricing Tier 3, see table below) per annum; or

the Eurodollar rate (as defined below), plus a margin of 1.75% (Pricing Tier 3, see table below) per annum

Each of the aforementioned margins remain applicable until the date of delivery of the compliance certificate and the financial statements, for the period ended September 30, 2014, at which time the applicable margin will be determined by reference to the leverage ratio in effect from time to time as set forth in the following table:

Pricing Tier
 
Consolidated Leverage Ratio
 
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees
 
Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans
 
Commitment Fee
1
 
≥ 4.00:1.00
 
2.25
%
 
1.25
%
 
0.45
%
2
 
< 4.00:1.00 and ≥ 3.25:1.00
 
2.00
%
 
1.00
%
 
0.40
%
3
 
< 3.25:1.00 and ≥ 2.50:1.00
 
1.75
%
 
0.75
%
 
0.35
%
4
 
< 2.50:1.00 and ≥ 1.75:1.00
 
1.50
%
 
0.50
%
 
0.30
%
5
 
< 1.75:1.00 and ≥ 1.00:1.00
 
1.25
%
 
0.25
%
 
0.25
%
6
 
< 1.00:1.00
 
1.00
%
 
%
 
0.25
%

The base rate for the senior term notes is a rate per annum equal to the highest of the (a) Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, (b) Bank of America, N.A.'s ("Bank of America") prime rate in effect on such day, and (c) the Eurodollar rate plus 1.0%. The Eurodollar rate is defined as the rate per annum equal to the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"), or a comparable or successor rate which is approved by Bank of America.

Maturity and Principal Payments. The senior term notes mature on August 27, 2019. Principal payments on the senior term notes of $7.5 million are due each calendar quarter from September 30, 2015 to and including June 30, 2017, $11.3 million are due each calendar quarter from September 30, 2017 to and including June 30, 2018 and $15.0 million are due each calendar quarter thereafter with a final payment of the outstanding principal balance due upon maturity. The following table sets forth the scheduled principal payments for our senior term notes (in thousands):




14


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


6.
Long-Term Obligations, continued

 
 
2014
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
2018
 
Thereafter
Senior term notes
 
$

 
$
15,000

 
$
30,000

 
$
37,500

 
$
52,500

 
$
465,000


The revolving credit facility matures on August 27, 2019. Principal payments under the revolving credit facility portion are made at our discretion with the entire unpaid amount due at maturity. As of September 30, 2014, no amounts have been borrowed under our revolving credit facility.

Guarantees and Security. We and each of our wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries guarantee the outstanding indebtedness under the New Senior Credit Facility. Any borrowings, along with the guarantees of the domestic subsidiaries, are further secured by a pledge of substantially all of our consolidated assets, including 65% of the voting equity and 100% of the non-voting equity interest in each of our foreign subsidiaries.


7.Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The FASB accounting guidance requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not they are recognized in the accompanying condensed, consolidated balance sheets. Fair value as defined by the guidance is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value estimates of financial instruments are not necessarily indicative of the amounts we might pay or receive in actual market transactions. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.
Cash and Cash Equivalents. These balances include cash and cash equivalents with maturities of less than three months. The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.
Receivables, Less Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Accounts Payable and Certain Other Accrued Liabilities. Due to their short-term nature, fair value approximates carrying value.
Long-Term Debt. The fair value of debt at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is based upon the ask price quoted from an external source, which is considered a Level 2 input.
The following table reflects the carrying value and fair value of our variable-rate long-term debt (in thousands):

 
As of September 30, 2014
 
As of December 31, 2013
 
Carrying
Value
 
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Value
 
Fair
Value
Variable-rate long-term debt
$
600,000

 
$
600,000

 
$
556,914

 
$
556,914

Non-Recurring Assets
Non-financial assets such as property, plant and equipment, land, goodwill and intangible assets are also subject to non-recurring fair value measurements if they are deemed to be impaired. The impairment models used for nonfinancial assets depend on the type of asset and are accounted for in accordance with FASB’s guidance on fair value measurement.
During the quarter ended September 30, 2014, the entire balance of $9.2 million of our Vetstreet goodwill was written off in an impairment charge which was included in earnings in the period. Additionally, during the quarter ended September 30, 2014, our Vetstreet long-lived assets were written down to their estimated fair value resulting in an impairment charge of $17.8 million, which was included in earnings in the period. Our Vetstreet long-lived assets balance as of September 30, 2014 was $5.0 million. Both the implied fair value of goodwill and the estimated fair value of long-lived assets were calculated using Level 3 inputs which are described in Note 3.



15


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)



8. Calculation of Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to VCA Inc. by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, after giving effect to all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period. Basic and diluted earnings per share were calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Net income attributable to VCA Inc.
$
27,452

 
$
40,647

 
$
107,079

 
$
112,794

Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
86,274

 
88,834

 
87,543

 
88,583

Effect of dilutive potential common shares:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock options
324

 
310

 
285

 
318

Nonvested shares and units
762

 
701

 
837

 
758

Diluted
87,360

 
89,845

 
88,665

 
89,659

Basic earnings per share
$
0.32

 
$
0.46

 
$
1.22

 
$
1.27

Diluted earnings per share
$
0.31

 
$
0.45

 
$
1.21

 
$
1.26


For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, there were no potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share.
There were no potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, potential common shares of 23,538 were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have had an antidilutive effect.

9.
Lines of Business

Our reportable segments are Animal Hospital and Laboratory. Our Animal Hospital segment provides veterinary services for companion animals and sells related retail and pharmaceutical products. Our Laboratory segment provides diagnostic laboratory testing services for veterinarians, both associated with our animal hospitals and those independent of us. Our other operating segments included in “All Other” in the following tables are our Medical Technology business, which sells digital radiography and ultrasound imaging equipment, related computer hardware, software and ancillary services to the veterinary market, our Vetstreet business, which provides online and printed communications, professional education, marketing solutions to the veterinary community and an ecommerce platform for independent animal hospitals, and our Camp Bow Wow business, which primarily franchises the right to operate dog day care, overnight boarding and grooming services. These operating segments do not meet the quantitative requirements for reportable segments. Our operating segments are strategic business units that have different services, products and/or functions. The segments are managed separately because each is a distinct and different business venture with unique challenges, risks and rewards. We also operate a corporate office that provides general and administrative support services for our other segments.
The accounting policies of our segments are essentially the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies included in our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K. We evaluate the performance of our segments based on gross profit and operating income. For purposes of reviewing the operating performance of our segments, all intercompany sales and purchases are generally accounted for as if they were transactions with independent third parties at current market prices.







16


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


9.
Lines of Business, continued

The following is a summary of certain financial data for each of our segments (in thousands):

 
Animal
Hospital
 
Laboratory
 
All Other
 
Corporate
 

Eliminations
 
Total
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External revenue
$
395,820

 
$
77,394

 
$
25,397

 
$

 
$
966

 
$
499,577

Intercompany revenue

 
14,509

 
4,684

 

 
(19,193
)
 

Total revenue
395,820

 
91,903

 
30,081

 

 
(18,227
)
 
499,577

Direct costs
327,283

 
46,879

 
19,945

 

 
(18,287
)
 
375,820

Gross profit
68,537

 
45,024

 
10,136

 

 
60

 
123,757

Selling, general and administrative expense
9,269

 
8,610

 
8,023

 
16,890

 

 
42,792

Operating income (loss) before charges
59,268

 
36,414

 
2,113

 
(16,890
)
 
60

 
80,965

Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets

 

 
27,019

 

 

 
27,019

Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets
598

 
7

 

 
(135
)
 

 
470

Operating income (loss)
$
58,670

 
$
36,407

 
$
(24,906
)
 
$
(16,755
)
 
$
60

 
$
53,476

Depreciation and amortization
$
15,201

 
$
2,671

 
$
1,781

 
$
688

 
$
(479
)
 
$
19,862

Capital expenditures
$
17,224

 
$
2,391

 
$
1,123

 
$
2,025

 
$
(649
)
 
$
22,114

Three Months Ended
September 30, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External revenue
$
368,868

 
$
72,877

 
$
21,482

 
$

 
$
828

 
$
464,055

Intercompany revenue

 
13,583

 
5,980

 

 
(19,563
)
 

Total revenue
368,868

 
86,460

 
27,462

 

 
(18,735
)
 
464,055

Direct costs
308,029

 
45,650

 
17,456

 

 
(17,757
)
 
353,378

Gross profit
60,839

 
40,810

 
10,006

 

 
(978
)
 
110,677

Selling, general and administrative expense
8,678

 
7,921

 
7,618

 
14,530

 

 
38,747

Operating income (loss) before charges
52,161

 
32,889

 
2,388

 
(14,530
)
 
(978
)
 
71,930

Net (gain) loss on sale or disposal of assets
(110
)
 
11

 

 
(10
)
 

 
(109
)
Operating income (loss)
$
52,271


$
32,878

 
$
2,388

 
$
(14,520
)
 
$
(978
)
 
$
72,039

Depreciation and amortization
$
15,037

 
$
2,554

 
$
2,087

 
$
816

 
$
(450
)
 
$
20,044

Capital expenditures
$
15,915

 
$
1,905

 
$
872

 
$
1,795

 
$
(900
)
 
$
19,587




17


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


9.
Lines of Business, continued

 
Animal
Hospital
 
Laboratory
 
All Other
 
Corporate
 

Eliminations
 
Total
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External revenue
$
1,134,184

 
$
233,497

 
$
68,055

 
$

 
$
2,820

 
$
1,438,556

Intercompany revenue

 
42,895

 
13,859

 

 
(56,754
)
 

Total revenue
1,134,184

 
276,392

 
81,914

 

 
(53,934
)
 
1,438,556

Direct costs
953,511

 
139,245

 
54,161

 

 
(53,984
)
 
1,092,933

Gross profit
180,673

 
137,147

 
27,753

 

 
50

 
345,623

Selling, general and administrative expense
28,261

 
24,909

 
23,782

 
47,211

 

 
124,163

Operating income (loss) before charges
152,412

 
112,238

 
3,971

 
(47,211
)
 
50

 
221,460

Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets

 

 
27,019

 

 

 
27,019

Net loss (gain) on sale and disposal of assets
1,180

 
(71
)
 
(1,087
)
 
(195
)
 

 
(173
)
Operating income (loss)
$
151,232

 
$
112,309

 
$
(21,961
)
 
$
(47,016
)
 
$
50

 
$
194,614

Depreciation and amortization
$
45,053

 
$
7,769

 
$
5,921

 
$
2,333

 
$
(1,417
)
 
$
59,659

Capital expenditures
$
38,411

 
$
5,676

 
$
2,801

 
$
4,769

 
$
(1,564
)
 
$
50,093

Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External revenue
$
1,074,688

 
$
223,466

 
$
67,339

 
$

 
$
2,423

 
$
1,367,916

Intercompany revenue

 
41,559

 
16,118

 

 
(57,677
)
 

Total revenue
1,074,688

 
265,025

 
83,457

 

 
(55,254
)
 
1,367,916

Direct costs
908,537

 
136,524

 
54,394

 

 
(53,433
)
 
1,046,022

Gross profit
166,151

 
128,501

 
29,063

 

 
(1,821
)
 
321,894

Selling, general and administrative expense
25,723

 
23,891

 
24,573

 
43,429

 

 
117,616

Operating income (loss) before charges
140,428

 
104,610

 
4,490

 
(43,429
)
 
(1,821
)
 
204,278

Net loss (gain) on sale and disposal of assets
1,459

 
5

 
3

 
(280
)
 

 
1,187

Operating income (loss)
$
138,969

 
$
104,605

 
$
4,487

 
$
(43,149
)
 
$
(1,821
)
 
$
203,091

Depreciation and amortization
$
43,108

 
$
7,651

 
$
5,989

 
$
2,370

 
$
(1,335
)
 
$
57,783

Capital expenditures
$
41,682

 
$
5,641

 
$
3,244

 
$
3,741

 
$
(1,626
)
 
$
52,682

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
At September 30, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
$
1,904,183

 
$
261,245

 
$
85,031

 
$
174,308

 
$
(152,282
)
 
$
2,272,485

At December 31, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
$
1,854,609

 
$
247,591

 
$
96,245

 
$
77,153

 
$
(37,817
)
 
$
2,237,781





18


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


10.
Commitments and Contingencies
We have certain commitments including operating leases, purchase agreements and acquisition agreements. These items are discussed in detail in our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K. We also have contingencies as follows:
 
a.
Earn-Out Payments
We have contractual arrangements in connection with certain acquisitions, whereby additional cash may be paid to former owners of acquired companies upon attainment of specified financial criteria as set forth in the respective agreements. The amount to be paid cannot be determined until the earn-out periods have expired and the attainment of criteria is established. If the specified financial criteria are attained, we will be obligated to pay an additional $5.2 million.
In accordance with business combination accounting guidance, contingent consideration, such as earn-out agreements, are recognized as part of the consideration transferred on the acquisition date. A liability is initially recorded based upon its acquisition date fair value. The changes in fair value are recognized in earnings where applicable for each reporting period. The fair value is determined using a contractually stated formula using either a multiple of revenue or Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA"). The formulas used to determine the estimated fair value are Level 3 inputs. The changes in fair value were immaterial to our condensed, consolidated financial statements when taken as a whole. We recorded $3.7 million and $2.2 million in earn-out liabilities as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, which are included in other accrued liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets.
 
b.
Legal Proceedings

On May 29, 2013, a former veterinary assistant at one of our animal hospitals filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, titled Jorge Duran vs. VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc., et. al. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of current and former veterinary assistants employed by us in California, and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly failed to pay regular and overtime wages, improperly failed to provide proper meal and rest periods, and engaged in unfair business practices. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys’ fees and costs. On May 7, 2014, we obtained partial summary judgment, dismissing 4 of the 8 claims of the complaint, including the claims for failure to pay regular and overtime wages. We intend to continue to vigorously defend against the remaining claims in this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
 
On July 16, 2014, two additional former veterinary assistants filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, titled La Kimba Bradsbery and Cheri Brakensiek vs. Vicar Operating, Inc., et. al. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of current and former veterinary assistants, kennel assistants, and client service representatives employed by us in California, and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly failed to pay regular and overtime wages, improperly failed to provide proper meal and rest periods, improperly failed to pay reporting time pay, improperly failed to reimburse for certain business-related expenses, and engaged in unfair business practices. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys’ fees and costs. We currently expect that these two actions will be consolidated with, or related before the same judge hearing, the Duran action discussed above. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
On July 12, 2013, an individual who provided courier services with respect to our laboratory clients in California filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Santa Clara - San Jose Branch, titled Carlos Lopez vs. Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, Antech Diagnostics, Inc., et. al. Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, a co-defendant in the lawsuit, is a company with which Antech has contracted to provide courier services in California. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of individuals who were engaged by Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC to perform such courier services and alleges, among other allegations, that Logistics Delivery Solutions and Antech Diagnostics improperly classified the plaintiffs as independent contractors, improperly failed to pay overtime wages, and improperly failed to provide proper meal periods. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys' fees and costs. We filed our answer to the complaint on September 13, 2013. Written discovery is currently ongoing. We filed a motion for summary judgment on July 18, 2014, and on October 3, 2014 the court denied our request for summary judgment. We are



19


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


10.
Commitments and Contingencies, continued

continuing to vigorously defend this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
On May 12, 2014, an individual client who purchased goods and services from one of our animal hospitals filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, titled Tony M. Graham vs. VCA Antech, Inc. and VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of the plaintiff and other individuals who purchased similar goods and services from our animal hospitals and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly charged such individuals for “biohazard waste management” in connection with the services performed. The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages in unspecified amounts, and other relief, including attorneys' fees and costs. This case is in an early procedural stage and we intend to vigorously defend this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
In addition to the lawsuits described above, we are party to ordinary routine legal proceedings and claims incidental to our business, but we are not currently a party to any legal proceeding that we believe would have a material adverse effect on our financial position.
c.
Other Contingencies
On May 14, 2014, the headquarters of our Medical Technology business in Carlsbad, California was severely damaged by wildfires. There were no injuries to personnel. However, the fire caused severe damage to a substantial portion of the facility. We have worked diligently to satisfy customer requirements and to prevent supply disruptions. We maintain standard insurance coverage for both property damage and business interruption losses. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, we recorded approximately $0.4 million and $17.9 million, respectively, in estimated losses in connection with this event, primarily associated with property damage. This amount is included in operating expenses in our condensed, consolidated income statements, offset by the related insurance recovery of the same amount. We have received insurance proceeds to date of $12.0 million. As of September 30, 2014, we have recorded receivables of $5.9 million remaining from expected insurance recoveries. We continue to assess damages and insurance coverage and we currently do not expect our losses to exceed the applicable insurance coverage.
11.
Income Taxes

The effective tax rate of income attributable to VCA for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 was 39.9% and 39.3%, respectively, as compared to 38.9% for the year ended December 31, 2013.




20


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


12.
Noncontrolling Interests
We own some of our animal hospitals in partnerships with noncontrolling interest holders. We consolidate our partnerships in our condensed, consolidated financial statements because our ownership interest in these partnerships is equal to or greater than 50.1% and we control these entities. We record noncontrolling interest in income of subsidiaries equal to our partners’ percentage ownership of the partnerships’ income. We also record changes in the redemption value of our redeemable noncontrolling interests in net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our condensed, consolidated income statements. We reflect our noncontrolling partners’ cumulative share in the equity of the respective partnerships as either noncontrolling interests in equity, mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests in other liabilities, or redeemable noncontrolling interests in temporary equity (mezzanine) in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets.
 
a.
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
The terms of some of our partnership agreements require us to purchase the partner’s equity in the partnership in the event of the partner’s death. We report these redeemable noncontrolling interests at their estimated redemption value, which approximates fair value, and classify them as liabilities due to the certainty of the related event. Estimated redemption value is determined using either a contractually stated formula or a discounted cash flow technique, both of which are used as an approximation of fair value. The discounted cash flow inputs used to determine the redemption value are Level 3 and include forecasted growth rates, valuation multiples, and the weighted average cost of capital. We recognize changes in the obligation as interest cost in our condensed, consolidated statements of income.

The following table provides a summary of mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests included in other liabilities in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):
 
Income
Statement
Impact
 
Mandatorily Redeemable
Noncontrolling
Interests
Balance as of December 31, 2012
 
 
$
11,047

Noncontrolling interest expense
$
1,475

 
 
Redemption value change
134

 
1,609

Purchase of noncontrolling interests
 
 
(658
)
Dissolution of noncontrolling interests
 
 
(357
)
Distribution to noncontrolling interests
 
 
(1,437
)
Currency translation adjustment
 
 
(145
)
Balance as of September 30, 2013
 
 
$
10,059

 
 
 
 
Balance as of December 31, 2013
 
 
$
9,355

Noncontrolling interest expense
$
1,172

 
 
Redemption value change
315

 
1,487

Distribution to noncontrolling interests
 
 
(1,064
)
Currency translation adjustment
 
 
(358
)
Balance as of September 30, 2014
 
 
$
9,420




21


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


12.
Noncontrolling Interests, continued

b.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
We also enter into partnership agreements whereby the minority partner is issued certain “put” rights. These rights are normally exercisable at the sole discretion of the minority partner. We report these redeemable noncontrolling interests at their estimated redemption value and classify them in temporary equity (mezzanine). We recognize changes in the obligation in net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our condensed, consolidated statements of income.
The following table provides a summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests (in thousands):

 
Income
Statement
Impact
 
Redeemable
Noncontrolling
Interests
Balance as of December 31, 2012
 
 
$
6,991

Noncontrolling interest expense
$
900

 
 
Redemption value change
252

 
1,152

Formation of noncontrolling interests
 
 
3,600

Distribution to noncontrolling interests
 
 
(712
)
Balance as of September 30, 2013
 
 
$
11,031

 
 
 
 
Balance as of December 31, 2013
 
 
$
10,678

Noncontrolling interest expense
$
940

 
 
Redemption value change
(217
)
 
723

Formation of noncontrolling interests
 
 
855

Purchase of noncontrolling interests
 
 
(356
)
Distribution to noncontrolling interests
 
 
(886
)
Balance as of September 30, 2014
 
 
$
11,014

 



22


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


13.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance creating Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Section 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. The new section will replace Section 605, “Revenue Recognition” and create modifications to various other revenue accounting standards for specialized transactions and industries. The guidance in this update is intended to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue and to develop a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) that would remove inconsistencies and weaknesses in revenue requirements, provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue issues, and improve comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets.
    
The new accounting guidance will require companies to recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This update creates a five-step model that requires companies to exercise judgment when considering the terms of the contract(s) which include (i) identifying the contract(s) with the customer, (ii) identifying the separate performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determining the transaction price, (iv) allocating the transaction price to the separate performance obligations, and (v) recognizing revenue when each performance obligation is satisfied. The update allows for either full retrospective adoption, meaning the standard is applied to all of the periods presented, or modified retrospective adoption, meaning the standard is applied only to the most current period presented in the financial statements.

The updated guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early adoption is not permitted. Accordingly, we will adopt the new provisions of this accounting standard at the beginning of fiscal year 2017. We will further study the implications of this statement in order to evaluate the expected impact on the consolidated financial statements and evaluate the method of adoption we would apply.
    
In April 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance which includes amendments that change the criteria for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 205-20 and requires entities to provide additional disclosures about disposal transactions that do not meet the discontinued-operations criteria. The revised guidance will change how entities identify and disclose information about disposal transactions under U.S. GAAP.

The FASB issued the ASU to provide more decision-useful information to users and to elevate the threshold for a disposal transaction to qualify as a discontinued operation (since too many disposal transactions were qualifying as discontinued operations under existing guidance). Under the new guidance, only disposals representing a strategic shift in operations that has or will have a major impact on an entity’s operations or financial results should be presented as discontinued operations. Under current U.S. GAAP, an entity is prohibited from reporting a discontinued operation if it has certain continuing cash flows or involvement with the component after the disposal. The new guidance eliminates these criteria. The ASU also requires entities to reclassify assets and liabilities of a discontinued operation for all comparative periods presented in the statement of financial position.

The ASU is effective prospectively for all disposals (except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date) or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. This guidance is not expected to significantly impact our consolidated financial statements.




23


VCA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
September 30, 2014
(Unaudited)


14.
Subsequent Events

During October 2014, we borrowed $50 million from our revolving credit facility to fund repurchases under our existing $400 million share repurchase authorization.
During October 2014, our Board of Directors granted 271,451 shares of non-vested common stock to our executives and 162,571 shares to non executive employees. The awards granted to executive officers are subject to vesting based upon achievement of performance standards and continued service. Both of the awards will vest in equal annual installments over four years.

    
 



24


ITEM 2.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
 
Page
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




25


Introduction
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our condensed, consolidated financial statements provided under Part I, Item I of this Quarterly report on Form 10-Q. We have included herein statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We generally identify forward-looking statements in this report using words like “believe,” “intend,” “expect,” “estimate,” “may,” “plan,” “should plan,” “project,” “contemplate,” “anticipate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” or similar expressions. You may find some of these statements below and elsewhere in this report. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts and are inherently uncertain and outside of our control. Any or all of our forward-looking statements in this report may turn out to be wrong. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions we might make, or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors mentioned in our discussion in this report will be important in determining future results. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Actual future results may vary materially. Factors that may cause our plans, expectations, future financial condition and results to change are described throughout this report and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, particularly in “Risk Factors,” Part I, Item 1A of that report.
The forward-looking information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is as of November 7, 2014, and we undertake no duty to update this information unless required by law. Shareholders and prospective investors can find information filed with the SEC after November 7, 2014 at our website at http://investor.vca.com or at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
We are a leading North American animal healthcare company. We provide veterinary services and diagnostic testing services to support veterinary care and we sell diagnostic imaging equipment and other medical technology products and related services to veterinarians. We also provide both online and printed communications, education and information, and analytical-based marketing solutions to the veterinary community. Additionally, we operate and franchise the right to operate dog day care, overnight boarding and grooming services at specially designed pet care facilities.
Our reportable segments are as follows: 
Our Animal Hospital segment operates the largest network of freestanding, full-service animal hospitals in the nation. Our animal hospitals offer a full range of general medical and surgical services for companion animals. We treat diseases and injuries, offer pharmaceutical and retail products and perform a variety of pet wellness programs, including health examinations, diagnostic testing, routine vaccinations, spaying, neutering and dental care. At September 30, 2014, our animal hospital network consisted of 622 animal hospitals in 41 states and in four Canadian provinces.
Our Laboratory segment operates the largest network of veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the nation. Our laboratories provide sophisticated testing and consulting services used by veterinarians in the detection, diagnosis, evaluation, monitoring, treatment and prevention of diseases and other conditions affecting animals. At September 30, 2014, our laboratory network consisted of 59 laboratories serving all 50 states and certain areas in Canada.
Our “All Other” category includes the results of our Medical Technology, Vetstreet and Camp Bow Wow operating segments. Each of these segments did not meet the materiality thresholds to be reported individually.
The practice of veterinary medicine is subject to seasonal fluctuation. In particular, demand for veterinary services is significantly higher during the warmer months because pets spend a greater amount of time outdoors where they are more likely to be injured and are more susceptible to disease and parasites. In addition, use of veterinary services may be affected by levels of flea infestation, heartworms and ticks, and the number of daylight hours.
Consumer spending habits, including spending for pet healthcare, are affected by, among other things, prevailing economic conditions, levels of employment, salaries and wage rates, consumer confidence and consumer perception of economic conditions. These factors continue to impact consumer spending and may continue to cause levels of spending to remain depressed for the foreseeable future. Additionally, these factors may cause pet owners to elect to defer expensive treatment options or to forgo treatment for their pets altogether.




26


Use of Supplemental Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this management's discussion and analysis, we use supplemental measures of our performance, which are derived from our consolidated financial information, but which are not presented in our consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). These financial measures, which are considered “Non-GAAP financial measures” under SEC rules, include our Non-GAAP gross profit, Non-GAAP gross margin, Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization computed on a consolidated basis, for our Animal Hospital segment, and the same measures expressed on a same-store basis. Additionally, our Non-GAAP financial measures include our Non-GAAP operating income, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP operating margin, excluding acquisition related amortization, on a consolidated basis. Lastly, our Non-GAAP financial measures also include our Non-GAAP interest expense, Non-GAAP consolidated net income, Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, Non-GAAP consolidated net income, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, excluding acquisition related amortization. See “Consolidated Results of Operations Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for information about our use of these Non-GAAP financial measures, including our reasons for including the measures, material limitations with respect to the usefulness of the measures, and a reconciliation of each Non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. All references to Non-GAAP figures in the discussion that follows refer to Non-GAAP results excluding acquisition related amortization.
Executive Overview
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, we experienced increases in both consolidated revenue and gross profit. The increases were primarily driven by revenue from our acquisitions and organic growth in our Animal Hospital and Laboratory segments. Our Animal Hospital same-store revenue increased 4.1% and 2.3% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Our Laboratory internal revenue increased 5.5%, adjusted for an additional one-half billing day, for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 4.1%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Our consolidated operating income decreased 25.8% and 4.2% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Our consolidated operating margin decreased 4.8% and 1.3% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Excluding the impact of Non-GAAP adjustments detailed below under the caption, Operating Income, our Non-GAAP consolidated operating income increased 16.3% and 9.3% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, and our Non-GAAP consolidated operating margin increased 120 basis points and 60 basis points for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Our Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization, increased 14.6% and 8.4% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Our Non-GAAP consolidated operating margin, excluding acquisition related amortization, increased 110 basis points and 50 basis points for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increase in Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization was primarily due to improved results from our Animal Hospital and Laboratory business segments.
Share Repurchase Program
In April 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase for up to $125.0 million of our common shares, which was completed in August 2014. In August 2014, our Board of Directors authorized the continuance of that share repurchase program, authorizing us to repurchase up to an additional $400.0 million of our common shares. These repurchases may be made from time to time through various methods, including open market transactions, block trades, accelerated share repurchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise and may be effected through Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 plans. The timing and number of shares repurchased will depend on a variety of factors, including price, capital availability, legal requirements and economic and market conditions. The Company is not obligated to purchase any shares under the repurchase program, and repurchases may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice. The repurchases have been and will continue to be funded by existing cash balances and by our revolving credit facility. Refer to Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and the Use of Proceeds in Part II of this report.
Financing Transaction
On August 27, 2014, we entered into a new senior credit facility with various lenders for $1.4 billion of senior secured credit facilities with Bank of America, N.A., as the administrative agent, swingline lender and Letter of Credit issuer, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and Suntrust Bank as co-syndication agents (the "New Senior Credit Facility). The New Senior



27


Credit Facility replaced our existing senior credit facility providing for $534 million of term notes and a $125 million revolving credit facility. The New Senior Credit Facility which provided for $600 million of senior secured term notes and an $800 million senior secured revolving facility, which may be used to borrow, on a same-day notice under a swing line, the lesser of $25 million and the aggregate unused amount of the revolving credit facility then in effect. In addition to refinancing all outstanding amounts under our existing credit agreement, borrowings under our New Senior Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purchases, including permitted share repurchases.

In connection with the New Senior Credit Facility, we incurred $8.0 million in financing costs, of which approximately $6.5 million were capitalized as deferred financing costs and $1.5 million were recognized as part of net income. In addition, we expensed $0.2 million of previously capitalized deferred financing costs associated with lenders under our existing senior credit facility who are not lenders under our New Senior Credit Facility.
Goodwill and Other Long-lived Assets Impairment
As a result of an interim impairment review, we recorded a goodwill and other long-lived assets impairment charge in our Vetstreet reporting unit of $27.0 million, $17.0 million net of tax or $0.20 per diluted share. We determined that a write-down of goodwill and long-lived assets was necessary as Vetstreet's fiscal 2014 actual operating results and cash flow to date, and projections of future operating results and cash flow, were significantly lower than previously forecasted. We do not expect this
accounting write-down to affect our ongoing business or financial performance.
Acquisitions
Our annual growth strategy includes the acquisition of independent animal hospitals. We also evaluate the acquisition of animal hospital chains, laboratories or related businesses if favorable opportunities are presented. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, we acquired $54.0 million of annualized Animal Hospital revenue. These acquisitions are immaterial individually and accordingly, have not been separately disclosed. We currently anticipate that during the year, we will acquire $110 million to $130 million of annualized Animal Hospital revenue.
The following table summarizes the changes in the number of facilities operated by our Animal Hospital and Laboratory segments during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively:
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Animal Hospitals:
 
 
 
Beginning of period
609

 
609

Acquisitions
23

 
14

Acquisitions, merged
(4
)
 
(2
)
Sold, closed or merged
(6
)
 
(15
)
End of period
622

 
606

 
 
 
 
Laboratories:
 
 
 
Beginning of period
56

 
55

Acquired

 
1

Created
3

 

End of period
59

 
56


Camp Bow Wow
On August 15, 2014, we acquired D.O.G. Enterprises, LLC for $17.0 million with up to an additional $3.0 million that may be earned over the next three years. Camp Bow Wow primarily operates and franchises a premier provider of pet services including dog day care, overnight boarding, grooming and other ancillary services at specially designed pet care facilities, principally under the trademark Camp Bow Wow®.  As of September 30, 2014, there were 125 Camp Bow Wow® franchise locations operating in 37 states and one Canadian province.  The acquisition will expand our participation in the dog boarding and day care service segment of the pet health industry.




28


Groupe Veteri - Medic Inc.

On July 5, 2013, AVC acquired 90% of the shares of Groupe Veteri - Medic Inc. for approximately CDN $17.2 million, which included contingent consideration. Groupe Veteri - Medic operates three animal hospitals in Montreal, Quebec. The acquisition expanded AVC's presence within the Canadian market by increasing operations into a fourth province, Quebec.

Critical Accounting Policies
Our condensed, consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts. The estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on other factors that management believes to be reasonable. Actual results may differ from those estimates. Critical accounting policies represent the areas where more significant judgments and estimates are used in the preparation of our condensed, consolidated financial statements. A discussion of such critical accounting policies, which include revenue recognition, goodwill, other intangible assets, and income taxes, can be found in our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K. There have been no material changes to the policies noted above as of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2014. A summary of our valuation of goodwill accounting policy is discussed below.

Valuation of Goodwill and Other Long-lived Assets
Goodwill

We allocate a significant portion of the purchase price for our acquired businesses to goodwill. Our goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the net of the amounts assigned to identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The total amount of our goodwill at September 30, 2014 was $1.4 billion, accounting for 60% of our total assets.
We test our goodwill for impairment annually, or sooner if circumstances indicate impairment may exist, in accordance with goodwill guidance. Our annual impairment testing date is October 31st, which allows us time to accurately complete our impairment testing process in order to incorporate the results in our annual financial statements and timely file those statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The recognition and measurement of a goodwill impairment loss involves either a qualitative assessment of the fair value of each reporting unit or a more detailed two-step process. We have not presently elected to rely on a qualitative assessment, accordingly we measure our goodwill for impairment based upon the following two-step process:
First we identify potential impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of our reporting units with the carrying value defined as the reporting unit’s net assets, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of our reporting units is greater than our carrying value, there is no impairment and the second step is not needed.

If we identify a potential impairment in the first step, we then measure the amount of impairment. The amount of the impairment is determined by allocating the estimated fair value of the reporting unit as determined in step one to the reporting unit’s net assets based on fair value as would be done in an acquisition. In this hypothetical purchase price allocation, the residual estimated fair value after allocation to the reporting units’ identifiable net assets is the implied current fair value of goodwill. If the implied current fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying amount of goodwill, goodwill is considered impaired and written down to the implied current fair value with a corresponding charge to earnings. However, if the implied current fair value of goodwill is greater than the carrying amount of goodwill, goodwill is not considered impaired and is not adjusted to the implied current fair value. Determining the fair value of the net assets of our reporting units under this step requires significant estimates.
Our estimated fair values are calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles related to fair value and utilize generally accepted valuation techniques consisting primarily of discounted cash flow techniques and market comparables, where applicable. These valuation methods involve the use of significant assumptions and estimates such as forecasted growth rates, valuation multiples, the weighted-average cost of capital, and risk premiums, which are based upon the best available market information and are consistent with our long-term strategic plans.
Negative changes in our projected cash flows related to variables such as revenue growth rates, margins, or the discount rate could result in a decrease in the estimated fair value of our reporting units and could ultimately result in a substantial goodwill impairment charge. The performance of our reporting units, and in turn the risk of goodwill impairment, is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are outside of our control.



29


Other Long-lived Assets
In addition to goodwill, we acquire other identifiable intangible assets in our acquisitions, including but not limited to covenants-not-to-compete, client lists, lease related assets and customer relationships. We value these identifiable intangible assets at estimated fair value. Our estimated fair values are based on generally accepted valuation techniques such as market comparables, discounted cash flow techniques or costs to replace. These valuation methods involve the use of significant assumptions such as the timing and amount of future cash flows, risks, appropriate discount rates, and the useful lives of intangible assets.
Subsequent to acquisition, we test our identifiable intangible assets for impairment as part of a broader test for impairment of long-lived assets under the FASB’s accounting guidance whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The recognition and measurement of an impairment loss under the FASB’s accounting guidance also involves a two-step process:
First we identify potential impairment by estimating the aggregate projected undiscounted future cash flows associated with an asset or asset group and compare that amount with the carrying value of those assets. If the aggregate projected cash flow is greater than our carrying amount, there is no impairment and the second step is not needed.
If the estimated aggregate projected undiscounted future cash flows associated with an asset or asset group is less than the carrying value, we then write the assets or asset group down to the estimated fair value with a corresponding charge to earnings. If the estimated fair value is greater than carrying value, there is no adjustment. We may be required to make significant estimates in determining the fair value of some of our assets or asset groups.
Interim Impairment Review
As a result of an interim impairment review, we determined that goodwill related to our Vetstreet reporting unit was impaired. We determined that a write-down of goodwill and long-lived assets was necessary as Vetstreet's fiscal 2014 actual operating results and cash flow to date, and projections of future operating results and cash flow, were significantly lower than previously forecasted. Accordingly, we recorded a goodwill impairment charge in our Vetstreet reporting unit of $9.2 million, $6.2 million net of tax, for the quarter ended September 30, 2014. In conjunction with our interim impairment review during the quarter ended September 30, 2014, we recorded a long-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $13.1 million, $8.0 million net of tax, related to the aforementioned Vetstreet business. The intangibles consisted of technology, customer relationships, trademarks and certain other contracts. Additionally, we recorded a long-lived tangible asset impairment charge of approximately $4.7 million, $2.8 million net of tax.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
A discussion of recent accounting pronouncements is included in Note 13, "Recent Accounting Pronouncements" to the Unaudited Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
  



30


Consolidated Results of Operations
The following table sets forth components of our condensed, consolidated income statements expressed as a percentage of revenue:
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Animal Hospital
79.2
 %
 
79.5
 %
 
78.8
 %
 
78.6
 %
Laboratory
18.4

 
18.6

 
19.2

 
19.4

All Other
6.0

 
5.9

 
5.7

 
6.1

Intercompany
(3.6
)
 
(4.0
)
 
(3.7
)
 
(4.1
)
Total revenue
100.0

 
100.0

 
100.0

 
100.0

Direct costs
75.2

 
76.2

 
76.0

 
76.5

Gross profit
24.8

 
23.8

 
24.0

 
23.5

Selling, general and administrative expense
8.6

 
8.3

 
8.6

 
8.6

Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets

5.4

 

 
1.9

 

Net loss on sale of assets
0.1

 

 

 
0.1

Operating income
10.7

 
15.5

 
13.5

 
14.8

Interest expense, net
0.9

 
0.9

 
0.9

 
1.0

Debt retirement costs
0.3

 

 
0.1

 

Income before provision for income taxes
9.5

 
14.6

 
12.5

 
13.8

Provision for income taxes
3.7

 
5.6

 
4.8

 
5.2

Net income
5.8

 
9.0

 
7.7

 
8.6

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
0.3

 
0.2

 
0.3

 
0.4

Net income attributable to VCA Inc.
5.5
 %
 
8.8
 %
 
7.4
 %
 
8.2
 %
Revenue
The following table summarizes our revenue (in thousands, except percentages):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
$
 
% of
Total
 
$
 
% of
Total
 
%
Change
 
$
 
% of
Total
 
$
 
% of
Total
 
%
Change
Animal Hospital
$
395,820

 
79.2
 %
 
$
368,868

 
79.5
 %
 
7.3
%
 
$
1,134,184

 
78.8
 %
 
$
1,074,688

 
78.6
 %
 
5.5
 %
Laboratory
91,903

 
18.4
 %
 
86,460

 
18.6
 %
 
6.3
%
 
276,392

 
19.2
 %
 
265,025

 
19.4
 %
 
4.3
 %
All Other
30,081

 
6.0
 %
 
27,462

 
5.9
 %
 
9.5
%
 
81,914

 
5.7
 %
 
83,457

 
6.1
 %
 
(1.8
)%
Intercompany
(18,227
)
 
(3.6
)%
 
(18,735
)
 
(4.0
)%
 
2.7
%
 
(53,934
)
 
(3.7
)%
 
(55,254
)
 
(4.1
)%
 
2.4
 %
Total revenue
$
499,577

 
100.0
 %
 
$
464,055

 
100.0
 %
 
7.7
%
 
$
1,438,556

 
100.0
 %
 
$
1,367,916

 
100.0
 %
 
5.2
 %

Consolidated revenue increased $35.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and $70.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increases in revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 were primarily attributable to revenue from animal hospitals acquired since the beginning of the comparable periods in 2013. Excluding the impact of acquisitions, revenue increased $20.3 million and $26.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, primarily due to organic growth in our Animal Hospital and Laboratory operating segments. The increases were partially offset by the impact of foreign currency translation and declining revenues in our Vetstreet business.



31


Direct Costs
The following table summarizes our direct costs (in thousands, except percentages):
 
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2014
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2014
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
%
Change
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
%
Change
Animal Hospital
$
327,283

 
82.7
 %
 
$
308,029

 
83.5
 %
 
6.3
 %
 
$
953,511

 
84.1
 %
 
$
908,537

 
84.5
 %
 
5.0
 %
Laboratory
46,879

 
51.0
 %
 
45,650

 
52.8
 %
 
2.7
 %
 
139,245

 
50.4
 %
 
136,524

 
51.5
 %
 
2.0
 %
All Other
19,945

 
66.3
 %
 
17,456

 
63.6
 %
 
14.3
 %
 
54,161

 
66.1
 %
 
54,394

 
65.2
 %
 
(0.4
)%
Intercompany
(18,287
)
 
(3.7
)%
 
(17,757
)
 
(3.8
)%
 
(3.0
)%
 
(53,984
)
 
(3.8
)%
 
(53,433
)
 
(3.9
)%
 
(1.0
)%
Total revenue
$
375,820

 
75.2
 %
 
$
353,378

 
76.2
 %
 
6.4
 %
 
$
1,092,933

 
76.0
 %
 
$
1,046,022

 
76.5
 %
 
4.5
 %

Consolidated direct costs increased $22.4 million and $46.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increases were primarily attributable to compensation related costs and supplies, both predominately in the animal hospital segment.

Gross Profit
The following table summarizes our consolidated gross profit, Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit and Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization in dollars and as a percentage of applicable revenue (in
thousands, except percentages):



32


 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
$
 
Gross
Margin
 
$
 
Gross
Margin
 
%
Change
 
$
 
Gross
Margin
 
$
 
Gross
Margin
 
%
Change
Animal Hospital
$
68,537

 
17.3
%
 
$
60,839

 
16.5
%
 
12.7
%
 
$
180,673

 
15.9
%
 
$
166,151

 
15.5
%
 
8.7
 %
Laboratory
45,024

 
49.0
%
 
40,810

 
47.2
%
 
10.3
%
 
137,147

 
49.6
%
 
128,501

 
48.5
%
 
6.7
 %
All Other
10,136

 
33.7
%
 
10,006

 
36.4
%
 
1.3
%
 
27,753

 
33.9
%
 
29,063

 
34.8
%
 
(4.5
)%
Intercompany
60

 
 
 
(978
)
 
 
 
 
 
50

 
 
 
(1,821
)
 
 
 
 
Consolidated gross profit and gross margin
$
123,757

 
24.8
%
 
$
110,677

 
23.8
%
 
11.8
%
 
$
345,623

 
24.0
%
 
$
321,894

 
23.5
%
 
7.4
 %
Impact of inventory adjustment

 
 
 
(2,808
)
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
(2,808
)
 
 
 
 
Impact of rent expense adjustment

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
(1,396
)
 
 
 
 
Impact of vacant property adjustment

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
2,046

 
 
 
 
Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit and Non-GAAP gross margin(1)
$
123,757

 
24.8
%
 
$
107,869

 
23.2
%
 
14.7
%
 
$
345,623

 
24.0
%
 
$
319,736

 
23.4
%
 
8.1
 %
Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions
5,166

 
 
 
5,520

 
 
 
 
 
15,406

 
 
 
16,035

 
 
 
 
Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization(1)
$
128,923

 
25.8
%
 
$
113,389

 
24.4
%
 
13.7
%
 
$
361,029

 
25.1
%
 
$
335,771

 
24.5
%
 
7.5
 %
 ____________________________
(1) 
Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, Non-GAAP gross margin, Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization, are not measurements of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for information about these Non-GAAP financial measures, including our reasons for including the measures, material limitations with respect to the usefulness of the measures, and a reconciliation of each Non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.
Consolidated gross profit increased $13.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and $23.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Excluding the impact of the Non-GAAP adjustments detailed in the table above, Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization, increased $15.5 million and $25.3 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increase in Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization, was primarily attributable to organic revenue growth in our Animal Hospital and Laboratory operating segments.



33


Segment Results
Animal Hospital Segment
Revenue
Animal Hospital revenue increased $27.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and $59.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The components of the increase are summarized in the following table (in thousands, except percentages and average revenue per order): 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
Same-store facilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Orders (1) 
2,140

 
2,122

 
0.8
%
 
6,052

 
6,089

 
(0.6
)%
Average revenue per order (2) 
$
174.92

 
$
169.42

 
3.2
%
 
$
177.52

 
$
172.45

 
2.9
 %
Same-store revenue (1) 
$
374,249

 
$
359,582

 
4.1
%
 
$
1,074,410

 
$
1,050,046

 
2.3
 %
Acquisitions
23,374

 
6,531

 
 
 
66,310

 
15,022

 
 
Closures
36

 
2,755

 
 
 
810

 
9,620

 
 
Net acquired revenue (3) 
$
23,410

 
$
9,286

 
 
 
$
67,120

 
$
24,642

 
 
Foreign currency impact
(1,839
)
 

 
 
 
(7,346
)
 

 
 
Total
$
395,820

 
$
368,868

 
7.3
%
 
$
1,134,184

 
$
1,074,688

 
5.5
 %
____________________________
(1) 
Same-store revenue and orders were calculated using Animal Hospital operating results, adjusted to exclude the operating results for newly acquired animal hospitals that we did not own, as of the beginning of the comparable periods in 2013. Same-store revenue also includes revenue generated by customers referred from our relocated or combined animal hospitals, including those merged upon acquisition.
(2) 
Computed by dividing same-store revenue by same-store orders. The average revenue per order may not calculate exactly due to rounding.
(3) 
Net acquired revenue represents the revenue from animal hospitals acquired, net of revenue from animal hospitals sold or closed, on or after the beginning of the comparable periods in 2013. Fluctuations in net acquired revenue occur due to the volume, size, and timing of acquisitions and dispositions.
During the three months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same period in the prior year, our volume of same-store orders increased primarily due to the combination of an overall improvement in the economy during the quarter and the impact of certain previously implemented initiatives in our animal hospitals.

Our business strategy is to place a greater emphasis on comprehensive wellness visits and advanced medical procedures, which typically generate higher priced orders. The migration of lower priced orders from our animal hospitals to other distribution channels as a result of increasing competition and our emphasis on comprehensive wellness visits has, over the past several years, resulted in a decrease in lower priced orders and an increase in higher priced orders. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, we experienced a decrease in the number of lower-priced orders and an increase in the number of higher-priced orders.
Price increases as well as the aforementioned shift in revenue from lower to higher-priced orders contributed to the overall increase in the average revenue per order. Prices at each of our animal hospitals are reviewed regularly and adjustments are made based on market considerations, demographics and our costs. These adjustments historically approximated 3% to 6% on most services at the majority of our animal hospitals and are typically implemented in November of each year; however, price increases in November 2013 generally ranged between 3% and 4%.





34


Direct Costs

Animal Hospital direct costs increased $19.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase was primarily due to an increase in compensation related expenses of $11.1 million and supplies of $5.2 million. The remainder of the increase was due to numerous items, all of which were individually immaterial. The increases in compensation related-costs and supplies generally are related to revenue growth.

Animal Hospital direct costs increased $45.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase was primarily due to an increase in compensation related expenses of $26.9 million, supplies of $9.2 million and depreciation and amortization of $2.1 million. The remainder of the increase was due to numerous items, all of which were individually immaterial. As mentioned above, the increases in compensation related costs and supplies generally are related to revenue growth. The increase in depreciation and amortization is related to acquired animal hospitals.


Gross Profit

Animal Hospital gross profit is calculated as Animal Hospital revenue less Animal Hospital direct costs. Animal Hospital direct costs comprise all costs of services and products at the animal hospitals including, but not limited to, salaries of veterinarians, technicians and all other animal hospital-based personnel, facilities rent, occupancy costs, supply costs, depreciation and amortization, certain marketing and promotional expense and costs of goods sold associated with the retail sales of pet food and pet supplies.

The following table summarizes gross profit, gross margin, Non-GAAP gross profit, Non-GAAP gross margin, Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization, for our Animal Hospital segment (in thousands, except percentages) and the same measures on a same-store basis:



35


 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
Gross profit
$
68,537

 
$
60,839

 
12.7
%
 
$
180,673

 
$
166,151

 
8.7
%
Impact of inventory adjustment

 
(2,808
)
 
 
 

 
(2,808
)
 
 
Impact of rent expense adjustment

 

 
 
 

 
(1,396
)
 
 
Impact of vacant property adjustment

 

 
 
 

 
2,046

 
 
Non-GAAP gross profit(1)
$
68,537

 
$
58,031

 
18.1
%
 
$
180,673

 
$
163,993

 
10.2
%
Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions
4,121

 
4,368

 
 
 
12,102

 
12,415

 
 
Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization(1)
$
72,658

 
$
62,399

 
16.4
%
 
$
192,775

 
$
176,408

 
9.3
%
Gross margin
17.3
%
 
16.5
%
 
 
 
15.9
%
 
15.5
%
 
 
Non-GAAP gross margin(1)
17.3
%
 
15.7
%
 
 
 
15.9
%
 
15.3
%
 
 
Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization(1)
18.4
%
 
16.9
%
 
 
 
17.0
%
 
16.4
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Same-store gross profit
$
66,060

 
$
61,481

 
7.4
%
 
$
175,741

 
$
165,837

 
6.0
%
Impact of inventory adjustment

 
(2,790
)
 
 
 

 
(2,757
)
 
 
Impact of rent expense adjustment

 

 
 
 

 
(1,396
)
 
 
Impact of vacant property adjustment

 

 
 
 

 
1,662

 
 
Non-GAAP same-store gross profit(1)
$
66,060

 
$
58,691

 
12.6
%
 
$
175,741

 
$
163,346

 
7.6
%
Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions
3,443

 
4,075

 
 
 
9,626

 
11,608

 
 
Non-GAAP same-store gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization(1)
$
69,503

 
$
62,766

 
10.7
%
 
$
185,367

 
$
174,954

 
6.0
%
Same-store gross margin
17.7
%
 
17.1
%
 
 
 
16.4
%
 
15.8
%
 
 
Non-GAAP same-store gross margin(1)
17.7
%
 
16.3
%
 
 
 
16.4
%
 
15.6
%
 
 
Non-GAAP same-store gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization(1)
18.6
%
 
17.5
%
 
 
 
17.3
%
 
16.7
%
 
 
____________________________
(1) 
Non-GAAP gross profit, Non-GAAP gross margin, Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization and the same measures expressed on a same store basis, are not measurements of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for information about these Non-GAAP financial measures, including our reasons for including the measures, material limitations with respect to the usefulness of the measures, and a reconciliation of each Non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.
Consolidated Animal Hospital gross profit increased $7.7 million and $14.5 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. Excluding the impact of the Non-GAAP adjustments detailed in the table above, Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization, increased $10.3 million and $16.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The increase in Non-GAAP consolidated gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization, was primarily attributable to an increase in Animal Hospital same-store gross margin, which increased as a result of leverage gained from higher same-store revenue, managing costs and additional gross profit from acquired animal hospitals.

Over the last several years, we have acquired a significant number of animal hospitals. Many of these newly acquired animal hospitals had lower gross margins at the time of acquisition than those previously operated by us. We have improved
these lower gross margins, in the aggregate, subsequent to the acquisition primarily through cost efficiencies.




36


Laboratory Segment
The following table summarizes revenue and gross profit for our Laboratory segment (in thousands, except percentages):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
Revenue
$
91,903

 
$
86,460

 
6.3
%
 
$
276,392

 
$
265,025

 
4.3
%
Gross profit
$
45,024

 
$
40,810

 
10.3
%
 
$
137,147

 
$
128,501

 
6.7
%
Gross margin
49.0
%
 
47.2
%
 
 
 
49.6
%
 
48.5
%
 
 
Laboratory revenue increased $5.4 million and $11.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year. The components of the changes in Laboratory revenue are detailed below (in thousands, except percentages and average revenue per requisition):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
% Change
Internal growth:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of requisitions (1) 
3,247

 
3,229

 
0.6
%
 
9,878

 
9,974

 
(1.0
)%
Average revenue per requisition (2) 
$
28.08

 
$
26.78

 
4.9
%
 
$
27.94

 
$
26.57

 
5.2
 %
Total internal revenue (1) 
$
91,183

 
$
86,460

 
5.5
%
 
$
275,996

 
$
265,025

 
4.1
 %
Billing-day adjustment (3)
596

 

 
 
 

 

 
 
Acquired revenue (4) 
124

 

 
 
 
396

 

 
 
Total
$
91,903

 
$
86,460

 
6.3
%
 
$
276,392

 
$
265,025

 
4.3
 %
  ____________________________

(1) 
Internal revenue and requisitions were calculated using Laboratory operating results, which are adjusted (i) to exclude the operating results of acquired laboratories that we did not own as of the beginning of the comparable periods in 2013, and (ii) for the impact resulting from any differences in the number of billing days in comparable periods, if applicable.

(2) 
Computed by dividing internal revenue by the number of requisitions.

(3) 
The billing-day adjustment reflects the impact of an additional one-half billing day in 2014, as compared to 2013.

(4) 
Acquired revenue represents the current-year period revenue recognized from our acquired laboratories that we did not own as of the beginning of the comparable periods in 2013.
The increase in Laboratory revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the prior-year periods, was due to an increase in average revenue per requisition, primarily as a result of price increases in February 2014 and changes in product mix.
Laboratory gross profit is calculated as Laboratory revenue less direct costs. Laboratory direct cost comprises all costs of laboratory services including, but not limited to, salaries of veterinarians, specialists, technicians and other laboratory-based personnel, transportation and delivery costs, facilities rent, occupancy costs, depreciation and amortization and supply costs.
Our Laboratory gross margin increased to 49.0% and 49.6% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to 47.2% and 48.5% for the same periods in the prior year. The improvement in gross margins is primarily attributable to leverage on labor and transportation costs.








37


Intercompany Revenue
Laboratory revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 included intercompany revenue of $14.5 million and $42.9 million, respectively, generated by providing laboratory services to our animal hospitals, as compared to $13.6 million and $41.6 million for the respective prior year periods. All Other revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 included intercompany revenue of $4.7 million and $13.9 million, respectively, generated by providing products and services to our animal hospitals and laboratories, as compared to $6.0 million and $16.1 million for the respective prior year periods. For purposes of reviewing the operating performance of our segments, all intercompany transactions are accounted for as if the transaction was with an independent third party at current market prices. For financial reporting purposes, intercompany transactions are eliminated as part of our consolidation.
  
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
SG&A is primarily comprised of costs incurred to support each of our business units. These costs typically include compensation related items for our accounting, legal, information technology, marketing, training, and medical operations departments and in addition, other shared costs such as marketing and rent for corporate facilities.
The following table summarizes our selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expense in both dollars and as a percentage of applicable revenue (in thousands, except percentages):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
%
Change
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
%
Change
Animal Hospital
$
9,269

 
2.3
%
 
$
8,678

 
2.4
%
 
6.8
%
 
$
28,261

 
2.5
%
 
$
25,723

 
2.4
%
 
9.9
 %
Laboratory
8,610

 
9.4
%
 
7,921

 
9.2
%
 
8.7
%
 
24,909

 
9.0
%
 
23,891

 
9.0
%
 
4.3
 %
All Other
8,023

 
26.7
%
 
7,618

 
27.7
%
 
5.3
%
 
23,782

 
29.0
%
 
24,573

 
29.4
%
 
(3.2
)%
Corporate
16,890

 
3.4
%
 
14,530

 
3.1
%
 
16.2
%
 
47,211

 
3.3
%
 
43,429

 
3.2
%
 
8.7
 %
Total SG&A
$
42,792

 
8.6
%
 
$
38,747

 
8.3
%
 
10.4
%
 
$
124,163

 
8.6
%
 
$
117,616

 
8.6
%
 
5.6
 %
Consolidated SG&A expense increased $4.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase in consolidated SG&A expense for the three months ended September 30, 2014, was primarily due to an increase in compensation related expenses at our Corporate, Laboratory, and Animal Hospital segments of $1.7 million, $0.7 million, and $0.6 million, respectively, related to increased headcount to support our growing operations. The remainder of the variance is attributable to several individually immaterial items.
Consolidated SG&A expense increased $6.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase in consolidated SG&A expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, was primarily due to an increase in compensation related expenses at our Corporate, Animal Hospital and Laboratory segments of $3.2 million, $2.2 million, and $1.0 million, respectively, related to increased headcount to support our growing operations and to a lesser extent, executive compensation. The increases were partially offset by a decrease in SG&A of $1.7 million at our Vetstreet business due to our cost containment efforts. The remainder of the variance is attributable to several individually immaterial items.



38


Operating Income
The following table summarizes our consolidated operating income, Non-GAAP consolidated operating income and Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization in both dollars and as a percentage of applicable revenue (in thousands, except percentages):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
%
Change
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
$
 
% of
Revenue
 
%
Change
Animal Hospital
$
58,670

 
14.8
 %
 
$
52,271

 
14.2
%
 
12.2
 %
 
$
151,232

 
13.3
 %
 
$
138,969

 
12.9
%
 
8.8
 %
Laboratory
36,407

 
39.6
 %
 
32,878

 
38.0
%
 
10.7
 %
 
112,309

 
40.6
 %
 
104,605

 
39.5
%
 
7.4
 %
All Other
(24,906
)
 
(82.8
)%
 
2,388

 
8.7
%
 
(1,143.0
)%
 
(21,961
)
 
(26.8
)%
 
4,487

 
5.4
%
 
(589.4
)%
Corporate
(16,755
)
 
 
 
(14,520
)
 
 
 
(15.4
)%
 
(47,016
)
 
 
 
(43,149
)
 
 
 
(9.0
)%
Eliminations
60

 
 
 
(978
)
 
 
 
106.1
 %
 
50

 
 
 
(1,821
)
 
 
 
102.7
 %
Total GAAP consolidated operating income
$
53,476

 
10.7
 %
 
$
72,039

 
15.5
%
 
(25.8
)%
 
$
194,614

 
13.5
 %
 
$
203,091

 
14.8
%
 
(4.2
)%
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets

27,019

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
27,019

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
Impact of inventory adjustment

 
 
 
(2,808
)
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
(2,808
)
 
 
 
 
Impact of rent expense adjustment

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
(1,396
)
 
 
 
 
Impact of vacant property adjustment

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
3,804

 
 
 
 
Non-GAAP operating income(1)
$
80,495

 
16.1
 %
 
$
69,231

 
14.9
%
 
16.3
 %
 
$
221,633

 
15.4
 %
 
$
202,691

 
14.8
%
 
9.3
 %
Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions
5,231

 
 
 
5,588

 
 
 
 
 
15,605

 
 
 
16,153

 
 
 
 
Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP operating margin, excluding acquisition related amortization(1)
$
85,726

 
17.2
 %
 
$
74,819

 
16.1
%
 
14.6
 %
 
$
237,238

 
16.5
 %
 
$
218,844

 
16.0
%
 
8.4
 %
 ____________________________
(1) 
Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, Non-GAAP consolidated operating margin, Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP consolidated operating margin, excluding acquisition related amortization are not measurements of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for information about these Non-GAAP financial measures, including our reasons for including the measures, material limitations with respect to the usefulness of the measures, and a reconciliation of each Non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.
Consolidated operating income decreased by $18.6 million and $8.5 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in prior year. Excluding the impact of the Non-GAAP adjustments detailed in the above table, Non-GAAP consolidated operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization, increased $10.9 million and $18.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in prior year. The remaining increases for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 were primarily related to improved results, as mentioned above, in our Animal Hospital and Laboratory segments.
Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions
Included in our direct costs is amortization expense related to our acquired intangible assets. At acquisition we assign a fair market value to identifiable intangible assets other than goodwill in our purchase price allocation. These assets include non-contractual customer relationships, covenants not-to-compete, trademarks, contracts, technology and client lists. For those identified intangible assets that have finite lives, we amortize those values over the estimated useful lives to direct costs. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, amortization expense associated with acquisitions was $5.2 million and $15.6 million, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, amortization expense associated with acquisitions was $5.6 million and $16.2 million, respectively.



39



Interest Expense, Net
The following table summarizes our interest expense, net of interest income (in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Interest expense:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior term notes
$
2,704

 
$
2,863

 
$
7,781

 
$
8,653

Capital leases and other
1,363

 
1,405

 
3,937

 
3,656

Amortization of debt costs
353

 
310

 
958

 
937

Non-GAAP interest expense
4,420

 
4,578

 
12,676

 
13,246

Rent expense adjustment

 

 

 
1,401

Consolidated interest expense
4,420

 
4,578

 
12,676

 
14,647

Interest income
(53
)
 
(104
)
 
(112
)
 
(208
)
Total consolidated interest expense, net of interest income
$
4,367

 
$
4,474

 
$
12,564

 
$
14,439

The decrease in net interest expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the same periods in the prior year, was primarily attributable to lower interest expense on our senior term notes. The weighted average balance and interest rate have declined as compared to the prior year periods. The decrease in the weighted average balance resulted from scheduled debt repayments whereas the decrease in the weighted average interest rates resulted from a lower effective LIBOR rate. In addition, interest expense related to capital leases declined as a result of an immaterial out-of-period adjustment related to an operating lease that should have been accounted for as a capital lease in the prior period for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. These decreases were partially offset by the additions of new capital leases from animal hospitals acquired in the current period .
Provision for Income Taxes
The effective tax rate of income attributable to VCA for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 was 39.9% and 39.3%, respectively, as compared to 38.9% for the year ended December 31, 2013. Our estimated annual effective tax rate is 39.1%.
Inflation
Historically, our operations have not been materially affected by inflation. We cannot assure that our operations will not be affected by inflation in the future.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We use Non-GAAP financial measures to supplement the financial information presented on a GAAP basis. We believe that excluding certain items from our GAAP results allows our management to better understand our consolidated financial performance from period to period and in relationship to the operating results of our segments. We also believe that excluding certain items from our GAAP results allows our management to better project our future consolidated financial performance because our forecasts are developed at a level of detail different from that used to prepare GAAP-based financial measures. Moreover, we believe these Non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with useful information to help them evaluate our operating results by facilitating an enhanced understanding of our operating performance, and enabling them to make more meaningful period to period comparisons.
The Non-GAAP financial measures presented in this report include Non-GAAP gross profit, Non-GAAP gross margin, Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP gross margin, excluding acquisition related amortization computed on a consolidated basis, for our Animal Hospital segment, and the same measures expressed on a same-store basis. Additionally, our Non-GAAP financial measures include our Non-GAAP operating income, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP operating margin, excluding acquisition related amortization on a consolidated basis. Lastly, our Non-GAAP financial measures also include our Non-GAAP interest expense, Non-GAAP consolidated net income, Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, Non-GAAP consolidated net income, excluding acquisition related amortization and Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, excluding acquisition related amortization. These Non-GAAP financial measures, as defined by us, represent the comparable GAAP measures adjusted to exclude certain charges or credits, as detailed in the tables above and below. In future fiscal periods, we may exclude such items and may incur income and expenses



40


similar to these excluded items. Accordingly, the exclusion of these items and other similar items in our Non-GAAP presentation should not be interpreted as implying that these items are non-recurring, infrequent, or unusual.
There are limitations to the use of the Non-GAAP financial measures presented in this report. Our Non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. Other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate the Non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. In addition, these items can have a material impact on earnings. Our management compensates for the foregoing limitations by relying primarily on our GAAP results and using Non-GAAP financial measures supplementally. The Non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered as indicators of performance in isolation from or as a substitute for consolidated gross profit or gross margin prepared in accordance with GAAP and should be read only in conjunction with financial information presented on a GAAP basis. We have presented reconciliations of each Non-GAAP financial measure to the most comparable GAAP measure for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013 and encourage you to review the reconciliations in conjunction with the presentation of the Non-GAAP financial measures for each of the periods included in this report. Refer to the tables above in the gross profit and operating income sections within Part I, Item 2 of this report for a reconciliation of consolidated gross profit to Non-GAAP gross profit and to Non-GAAP gross profit, excluding acquisition related amortization, consolidated operating income to Non-GAAP operating income and to Non-GAAP operating income, excluding acquisition related amortization.
Our Non-GAAP adjustments include the following:
Goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment adjustment - We recognized a non-cash impairment charge of $27.0 million related to the write-down of goodwill and other long-lived assets in our Vetstreet business for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.
Debt retirement costs adjustment - We incurred debt retirement costs of $1.7 million related to the refinancing of our senior credit facility for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.
Inventory adjustment - We recorded a non-cash physical inventory adjustment in our Animal Hospital business segment, which resulted in a $2.8 million credit adjustment to direct costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.
Rent expense adjustment - We reclassified an operating lease to a capital lease and accordingly recorded a corresponding credit to rent expense of $1.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. This adjustment had an immaterial impact on the consolidated income statement and to net income.
Vacant property adjustment - We vacated properties of two animal hospitals whose operations were consolidated into a newly constructed, newly owned animal hospital. Accordingly, we recorded a write-down to fair value and accrued certain lease related costs totaling $3.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions - Our GAAP net income includes amortization expense related to intangible assets in our acquired businesses. The amortization expense related to our acquired intangible assets can vary significantly dependent upon the amount and size of our acquisitions in each period; accordingly, we exclude amortization from our GAAP net income, for all periods presented, to provide investors with more comparable operating results.

The following table reconciles our GAAP net income to Non-GAAP net income, calculates our Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, and reconciles to Non-GAAP net income, excluding acquisition related amortization and calculates our Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, excluding acquisition related amortization for the adjustments mentioned above:



41


 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
GAAP net income
$
27,452

 
$
40,647

 
$
107,079

 
$
112,794

Impact of goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment adjustment
27,019

 

 
27,019

 

Impact of debt retirement cost adjustment
1,709

 

 
1,709

 

Impact of inventory adjustment

 
(2,808
)
 

 
(2,808
)
Impact of vacant property adjustment

 

 

 
3,804

Tax benefit on above adjustments
(10,647
)
 
1,099

 
(10,647
)
 
(390
)
Non-GAAP net income
45,533

 
38,938

 
125,160

 
113,400

Intangible asset amortization associated with acquisitions, net of tax
3,184

 
3,401

 
9,497

 
9,831

Non-GAAP net income, excluding acquisition related amortization
$
48,717

 
$
42,339

 
$
134,657

 
$
123,231

Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share
$
0.52

 
$
0.43

 
$
1.41

 
$
1.26

Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, excluding acquisition related amortization
$
0.56

 
$
0.47

 
$
1.52

 
$
1.37

Shares used for computing adjusted diluted earnings per share
87,360

 
89,845

 
88,665

 
89,659


Liquidity and Capital Resources
Introduction
We generate cash primarily from (i) payments made by customers for our veterinary services, (ii) payments from animal hospitals and other clients for our laboratory services, (iii) proceeds received from the sale of our imaging equipment and other related services and (iv) payments received from participating hospitals for Vetstreet subscriptions and reminder notices. Our business historically has experienced strong liquidity, as fees for services provided in our animal hospitals are due at the time of service and fees for laboratory services are collected under standard industry terms. Our cash disbursements are primarily for payments related to the compensation of our employees, supplies and inventory purchases for our operating segments, occupancy and other administrative costs, interest expense, payments on long-term borrowings, capital expenditures and acquisitions. Cash outflows fluctuate with the amount and timing of the settlement of these transactions.
We manage our cash, investments and capital structure so we are able to meet the short-term and long-term obligations of our business while maintaining financial flexibility and liquidity. We forecast, analyze and monitor our cash flows to enable investment and financing within the overall constraints of our financial strategy.
At September 30, 2014, our consolidated cash and cash equivalents totaled $126.5 million, representing an increase of $1.5 million, compared to December 31, 2013. Cash flows generated from operating activities totaled at $225.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, representing an increase of $6.0 million, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
As of September 30, 2014, $32.1 million of the $126.5 million of cash and cash equivalents were held by foreign subsidiaries. Our intention is to indefinitely reinvest foreign earnings in our foreign subsidiaries. If these earnings were used to fund domestic operations, they would be subject to additional income taxes upon repatriation.
We have historically funded our working capital requirements, capital expenditures, investments in the acquisition of individual hospitals and laboratories, repurchases of our common shares, and other smaller acquisitions, primarily from internally-generated cash flows. As of September 30, 2014, we had access to an $800 million revolving credit facility, an increase of $675 million as part of new our New Senior Credit Facility dated August 27, 2014; this allows us to maintain further operating and financial flexibility. In the future, we plan to utilize our revolving credit facility to supplement our internally generated cash flows to fund both our acquisition pipeline and our share repurchase program. See Note 6, Long-Term Obligations, in our condensed, consolidated financial statements of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for a more detailed discussion.




42


Historically, we have been able to access the capital markets to fund larger acquisitions that could not be funded out of internally generated cash flows. The availability of financing in the form of debt or equity is influenced by many factors including our profitability, operating cash flows, debt levels, debt ratings, contractual restrictions, and market conditions. Although in the past we have been able to obtain financing for material transactions on terms we believe to be reasonable, there is a possibility that we may not be able to obtain financing on favorable terms in the future.
Future Cash Flows
Short-Term
We historically have funded our working capital requirements, capital expenditures, investments in acquisitions of individual hospitals and laboratories, repurchases of our common shares, and other smaller acquisitions, from internally-generated cash flows. We anticipate that our cash on hand and net cash provided by operations and available funds under our revolving credit agreement and incremental facilities will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements for the next 12 months. During October 2014, to fund share repurchases under our existing $400 million share repurchase authorization as described below, we borrowed $50 million from our revolving credit facility. If we consummate additional significant acquisitions during this period, we may seek additional debt or equity financing.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, we expect to spend $120 million to $135 million for the acquisition of independent animal hospitals. The ultimate number of acquisitions and cash used is largely dependent upon the attractiveness of the candidates and the strategic fit within our operations. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, we spent $62.1 million in connection with the acquisition of 23 independent animal hospitals. In addition, we expect to spend approximately $80 million in 2014 for both property and equipment additions and capital costs necessary to maintain our existing facilities, of which approximately $50.1 million had been expended at September 30, 2014.
In April 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase for up to $125.0 million of our common shares, which was completed in August 2014. In August 2014, our Board of Directors authorized the continuance of that share repurchase program, authorizing us to repurchase up to an additional $400.0 million of our common shares. These repurchases may be made from time to time through various methods, including open market transactions, block trades, accelerated share repurchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise and may be effected through Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 plans. The timing and number of shares repurchased will depend on a variety of factors, including price, capital availability, legal requirements and economic and market conditions. The Company is not obligated to purchase any shares under the repurchase program, and repurchases may be suspended or discontinued at any time without prior notice. The repurchases have been and will continue to be funded by existing cash balances and by our revolving credit facility. During the quarter ended September 30, 2014, we repurchased an aggregate of 990,000 shares of common stock for $40.7 million under our new plan.
Long-Term
Our long-term liquidity needs, other than those related to the day-to-day operations of our business, including commitments for operating leases, generally are comprised of scheduled principal and interest payments for our outstanding long-term indebtedness, capital expenditures related to the expansion of our business and acquisitions in accordance with our growth strategy.
We are unable to project with certainty whether our long-term cash flow from operations will be sufficient to repay our long-term debt when it comes due. If this cash flow is insufficient, we expect that we will need to refinance such indebtedness, amend its terms to extend maturity dates, or issue common stock of our company. Our management cannot make any assurances that such refinancing or amendments, if necessary, will be available on attractive terms, if at all.
Debt Related Covenants
Our new senior credit facility contains certain financial covenants pertaining to interest coverage and leverage ratios. As of September 30, 2014, we were in compliance with these covenants, including the two covenant ratios, the interest coverage ratio and the leverage ratio.
At September 30, 2014, we had an interest coverage ratio of 21.52 to 1.00, which was in compliance with the required ratio of no less than 3.00 to 1.00. The senior credit facility defines the interest coverage ratio as that ratio that is calculated on a last 12-month basis by dividing pro forma earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as defined by the senior credit facility (“pro forma earnings”), by consolidated interest expense. Interest expense is defined as total interest expense with respect to all outstanding indebtedness, including commissions, discounts and other fees charged related to letters of credit. Pro forma earnings include 12 months of operating results for businesses acquired during the period.



43


At September 30, 2014, we had a leverage ratio of 1.89 to 1.00, which was in compliance with the required ratio of no more than 4.50 to 1.00 from September 30, 2014 until March 31, 2015 as defined under the New Senior Credit Facility. The senior credit facility defines the leverage ratio as that ratio which is calculated as total debt divided by pro forma earnings.


Historical Cash Flows
The following table summarizes our cash flows (in thousands):
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Cash provided by (used in):
 
 
 
Operating activities
$
225,047

 
$
219,005

Investing activities
(111,246
)
 
(94,363
)
Financing activities
(111,880
)
 
(39,337
)
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(443
)
 
(566
)
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
1,478

 
84,739

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
125,029

 
68,435

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
126,507

 
$
153,174

Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $6.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, as compared to the prior-year period. Operating cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 included $110.8 million of net income, net non-cash expenses of $102.3 million and net cash provided as a result of changes in operating assets and liabilities of $11.9 million. The changes in operating assets and liabilities included a $14.8 million increase in accrued payroll and related liabilities, a $12.1 million decrease in prepaid income taxes, and a $2.9 million increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. These changes were offset by an $8.2 million increase in inventory, prepaid expenses and other assets, and a $9.7 million increase in trade accounts receivable. The increase in accrued payroll and related liabilities, the decrease in prepaid income taxes, and the increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities are a result of timing of payment obligations. The increase in inventory, prepaid expenses and other assets is primarily due to increased medical supplies in relation to the acquired hospitals during 2014, and increased partner program funds provided for joint marketing initiatives used to promote certain products. The increase in trade accounts receivable is primarily due to the addition of new hospitals in 2014 as well as increased Antech revenue.
Net cash provided by operating activities increased $30.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, as compared to the prior-year period. Operating cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 included $117.2 million of net income, net non-cash expenses of $75.6 million and net cash provided as a result of changes in operating assets and liabilities of $26.2 million. The changes in operating assets and liabilities included a $21.5 million decrease in prepaid income taxes, a $5.0 million increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities, an $11.4 million increase in accrued payroll and related liabilities, partially offset by a $10.0 million increase in accounts receivable. The increase in accounts payable, accrued liabilities, accrued payroll and related liabilities and decrease in prepaid income taxes were all a result of timing of payment obligations. The increase in accounts receivable was primarily due to an increase in third quarter 2013 net revenue compared to 2012.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
The table below presents the components of the changes in investing cash flows (in thousands):




44


 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
Investing Cash Flows:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(62,122
)
 
$
(39,640
)
 
$
(22,482
)
(1) 
Capital expenditures
(50,093
)
 
(52,682
)
 
2,589

(2) 
Real estate acquired in connection with business acquisitions
(3,293
)
 
(1,208
)
 
(2,085
)
(3) 
Proceeds from sale or disposal of assets
4,464

 
905

 
3,559

(4) 
Other
(202
)
 
(1,738
)
 
1,536

 
Net cash used in investing activities
$
(111,246
)
 
$
(94,363
)
 
$
(16,883
)
 
 ____________________________

(1) 
The number of acquisitions will vary from year to year based upon the available pool of suitable candidates. A discussion of our acquisitions is provided above in our Executive Overview.

(2) 
The cash used for capital expenditures will vary from period to period based on upgrade requirements and the expansion of our animal hospital and laboratory facilities.

(3) 
The cash used to acquire real estate varies dependent upon the number of opportunities that meet our selective acquisition criteria.

(4) 
The proceeds from the sale or disposal of assets increased in 2014 primarily due to the insurance recovery received on assets from our Medical Technology business that were destroyed by a fire.


Cash Flows from Financing Activities
The table below presents the components of the changes in financing cash flows (in thousands):
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
Financing Cash Flows:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repayment of debt
$
(563,976
)
 
$
(28,507
)
 
$
(535,469
)
(1) 
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
600,000

 

 
600,000

(2) 
Payment of financing costs
(7,987
)
 

 
(7,987
)
(3) 
Distributions to noncontrolling interest partners
(3,577
)
 
(3,324
)
 
(253
)
 
Purchase of noncontrolling interests
(326
)
 
(5,727
)
 
5,401

(4) 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock under stock option plans
926

 
15,111

 
(14,185
)
(5) 
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
3,808

 
2,654

 
1,154

 
Repurchase of common stock
(139,910
)
 
(19,384
)
 
(120,526
)
(6) 
Other
(838
)
 
(160
)
 
(678
)
 
Net cash used in financing activities
$
(111,880
)
 
$
(39,337
)
 
$
(72,543
)
 
____________________________
(1) 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the cash payments on our long-term obligations included $533.2 million related to the pay-off of our existing Senior Credit Facility. In addition, there were $30.8 million of scheduled principal payments.
(2) 
On August 27, 2014 we entered into a new senior credit facility with various lenders which replaced our existing senior credit facility. A discussion of our New Senior Credit Facility is provided above in our Executive Overview.
(3) 
The payment of financing costs in 2014 were related to the New Senior Credit Facility entered into on August 27, 2014.



45


(4) 
The cash paid to purchase noncontrolling interests will vary based upon differing opportunities and circumstances during each of the respective periods.
(5) 
The proceeds from issuance of common stock under stock option plans decreased in the current period, as in the prior year comparable period there were more exercises as options were near expiration.
(6) 
The cash paid for stock repurchases includes both the repurchase of our common shares, in accordance with our share repurchase program, and income taxes paid on behalf of employees who elected to settle their tax obligation on vested stock with a portion of their vested stock.



46


Future Contractual Cash Requirements

The following table sets forth material changes from the amounts reported in our 2013 Form 10-K to our scheduled principal and interest due by us for each of the years indicated as of September 30, 2014 (in thousands):

 
Payment due by period
 
Total
 
Less than 1 Year
 
1-3 years
 
3-5 years
 
More than 5 years
Contractual Obligations:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
$
600,230

 
$
7,730

 
$
63,750

 
$
528,750

 
$

Variable cash interest expense Term A(1)

50,866

 
11,460

 
21,631

 
17,775

 

 
$
651,096

 
$
19,190

 
$
85,381

 
$
546,525

 
$

____________________________

(1) 
The interest payments on our variable-rate senior term notes are based on rates effective as of September 30, 2014.
Off-Balance-Sheet Financing Arrangements
Other than operating leases, as of September 30, 2014, we do not have any off-balance-sheet financing arrangements .
Description of Indebtedness
New Senior Credit Facility
We entered into a new senior credit facility on August 27, 2014 and pay interest on our senior term notes and revolving credit facility based on the interest rate offered to our administrative agent on, the Eurodollar rate plus the applicable margin determined by reference to the leverage ratio in effect from time-to-time, ranging from 1.00% to 2.25% per annum, as set forth in the table in Note 6, Long-Term Obligations, of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. We pay a commitment fee on our revolving credit facility determined by reference to the Leverage Ratio in effect from time-to-time ranging from 0.25% to 0.45%, as set forth in Note 6, Long-Term Obligations, of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.
At September 30, 2014, we had $600.0 million in principal outstanding under our senior term notes and no borrowings outstanding under our revolving credit facility.
The senior term notes and the revolving credit facility mature in August 2019.
Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
At September 30, 2014, we had a seller note secured by assets of a certain animal hospital, capital leases, and other debt that totaled $60.4 million, which are included in long-term debt in the condensed, consolidated balance sheet of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. Our seller note matures in 2014 and has an interest rate of 10.0%. Our capital leases and other debt have various maturities through 2042 and various interest rates ranging from 1.9% to 15.0%.




47


ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
There have been no material changes in our quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk from those disclosed in Part II, Item 7A, of our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
We carried out an evaluation required by the Exchange Act, under the supervision and with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and to provide reasonable assurance that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
During our most recent fiscal quarter, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives as specified above. Management does not expect, however, that our disclosure controls and procedures will prevent or detect all error and fraud. Any control system, no matter how well designed and operated, is based upon certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that its objectives will be met. Further, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur, or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the company have been detected. 



48



PART II.
OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On May 29, 2013, a former veterinary assistant at one of our animal hospitals filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, titled Jorge Duran vs. VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc., et. al. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of current and former veterinary assistants employed by us in California, and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly failed to pay regular and overtime wages, improperly failed to provide proper meal and rest periods, and engaged in unfair business practices. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys’ fees and costs. On May 7, 2014, we obtained partial summary judgment, dismissing 4 of the 8 claims of the complaint, including the claims for failure to pay regular and overtime wages. We intend to continue to vigorously defend against the remaining claims in this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
On July 16, 2014, two additional former veterinary assistants filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, titled La Kimba Bradsbery and Cheri Brakensiek vs. Vicar Operating, Inc., et. al. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of current and former veterinary assistants, kennel assistants, and client service representatives employed by us in California, and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly failed to pay regular and overtime wages, improperly failed to provide proper meal and rest periods, improperly failed to pay reporting time pay, improperly failed to reimburse for certain business-related expenses, and engaged in unfair business practices. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys’ fees and costs. We currently expect that these two actions will be consolidated with, or related before the same judge hearing, the Duran action discussed above. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
On July 12, 2013, an individual who provided courier services with respect to our laboratory clients in California filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Santa Clara - San Jose Branch, titled Carlos Lopez vs. Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, Antech Diagnostics, Inc., et. al. Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, a co-defendant in the lawsuit, is a company with which Antech has contracted to provide courier services in California. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of individuals who were engaged by Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC to perform such courier services and alleges, among other allegations, that Logistics Delivery Solutions and Antech Diagnostics improperly classified the plaintiffs as independent contractors, improperly failed to pay overtime wages, and improperly failed to provide proper meal periods. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys' fees and costs. We filed our answer to the complaint on September 13, 2013. Written discovery is currently ongoing. We filed a motion for summary judgment on July 18, 2014, and on October 3, 2014 the court denied our request for summary judgment. We are continuing to vigorously defend this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
On May 12, 2014, an individual client who purchased goods and services from one of our animal hospitals filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, titled Tony M. Graham vs. VCA Antech, Inc. and VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of the plaintiff and other individuals who purchased similar goods and services from our animal hospitals and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly charged such individuals for “biohazard waste management” in connection with the services performed. The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages in unspecified amounts, and other relief, including attorneys' fees and costs. This case is in an early procedural stage and we intend to vigorously defend this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole.
In addition to the lawsuits described above, we are party to ordinary routine legal proceedings and claims incidental to our business, but we are not currently a party to any legal proceeding that we believe would have a material adverse effect on our financial position.

 



49


ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, of our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 2.
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Transactions in Our Equity Securities

For the period covered by this report, we have not engaged in any transactions involving the sale of our unregistered equity securities that were not disclosed in a quarterly report on Form 10-Q or a current report on Form 8-K. We have not engaged in any sales of registered securities for which the use of proceeds is required to be disclosed.

The following table provides information on shares of our common stock we repurchased during the quarter ended September 30, 2014:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Number of
 
Approximate Dollar
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares Purchased as
 
Value of Shares That
 
 
Total Number
 
Average
 
Part of Publicly
 
May Yet Be Purchased
 
 
of Shares
 
Price Paid
 
Announced Plan
 
Under the Plan
Period
 
Purchased
 
Per Share
 
or Program
 
or Program
(1)
 
(2)
 
(3)
 
(4)
 
(4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
July 1, 2014 to July 31, 2014
 
1,100,000

 
$
36.21

 
1,100,000

 
$
8,209,481

August 1, 2014 to August 31, 2014
 
231,697

 
$
37.53

 
216,171

 
$
400,114,637

September 1, 2014 to September 30, 2014
 
1,027,633

 
$
41.09

 
990,000

 
$
359,438,232

 
 
2,359,330

 
$
38.46

 
2,306,171

 
$
359,438,232

(1)
Information is based on settlement dates of repurchase transactions.

(2)
Consists of shares of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share. Of these shares, 2,306,171 shares were repurchased in the open market pursuant to a previously-announced share repurchase program (see (4) below). The balance of the repurchases were related to 53,159 shares of common stock surrendered to us by employees to satisfy minimum statutory tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock and payout of restricted stock units. In the table above, these shares were excluded from column (4) as they do not affect the number of shares that may be repurchased under the Share Repurchase Program.

(3)
The average price paid for shares repurchased under the Share Repurchase Program excludes commissions paid.

(4)
In April 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program to purchase up to $125 million in shares of our common stock. As of August 2014, we have completed this program and our Board of Directors authorized a new repurchase program to buyback up to $400 million in shares of our common stock in open market purchases or negotiated transactions.
 



50



ITEM 3.
DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None
 
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable

ITEM 5.
OTHER INFORMATION
None
 
ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS
The agreements and other documents filed as exhibits to this report are not intended to provide factual information or other disclosure, other than with respect to the terms of the agreements or other documents themselves, and you should not rely on them for that purpose. In particular, any representations and warranties made by us in these agreements or other documents were made solely within the specific context of the relevant agreement or document and may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. 
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 
 
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
 
 
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase
 
 
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
 
 
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase




51


SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on November 7, 2014.

Date:
November 7, 2014
By: /s/ Tomas W. Fuller
 
 
Tomas W. Fuller
 
 
Chief Financial Officer, Principal Accounting Officer, and Vice President and Secretary



52


EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
 
Exhibit No.
Description
 
 
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
Exhibit 101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
Exhibit 101.SCH
XBRL Extension Schema Document
 
 
Exhibit 101.CAL
XBRL Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
Exhibit 101.LAB
XBRL Extension Label Linkbase Document
 
 
Exhibit 101.PRE
XBRL Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 
 
Exhibit 101.DEF
XBRL Extension Definition Linkbase Document





53