e10vq
Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2010
     
o   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number: 001-16783
 
VCA Antech, 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 þ       No o.
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).
(Not yet applicable to the registrant)
Yes o       No o.
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 þ   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer o   Smaller reporting company o
        (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 o       No þ.
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, 85,960,877 shares as of May 4, 2010.
 
 

 


 

VCA Antech, Inc.
Form 10-Q
March 31, 2010
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 EX-31.1
 EX-31.2
 EX-32.1

 


Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except par value)
                 
    March 31,     December 31,  
    2010     2009  
Assets
               
Current assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 178,197     $ 145,181  
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for uncollectible accounts of $13,036 and $13,015 at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively
    54,276       49,186  
Inventory
    32,489       32,031  
Prepaid expenses and other
    24,516       27,242  
Deferred income taxes
    18,797       18,318  
Prepaid income taxes
          6,252  
 
           
Total current assets
    308,275       278,210  
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization of $175,768 and $167,506 at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively
    298,840       289,415  
Goodwill
    995,123       985,674  
Other intangible assets, net
    43,345       44,280  
Notes receivable, net
    5,662       5,153  
Deferred financing costs, net
    449       581  
Other
    25,991       24,091  
 
           
Total assets
  $ 1,677,685     $ 1,627,404  
 
           
 
               
Liabilities and Equity
               
Current liabilities:
               
Current portion of long-term debt
  $ 8,721     $ 17,195  
Accounts payable
    30,333       28,326  
Accrued payroll and related liabilities
    43,493       33,539  
Income taxes payable
    6,514        
Other accrued liabilities
    40,541       43,298  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    129,602       122,358  
Long-term debt, less current portion
    525,558       527,860  
Deferred income taxes
    85,640       75,197  
Other liabilities
    10,422       10,651  
 
           
Total liabilities
    751,222       736,066  
 
               
Commitments and contingencies
               
Preferred stock, par value $0.001, 11,000 shares authorized, none outstanding
           
 
               
VCA Antech, Inc. stockholders’ equity:
               
Common stock, par value $0.001, 175,000 shares authorized, 85,918 and 85,584 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively
    86       86  
Additional paid-in capital
    337,569       335,114  
Accumulated earnings
    571,945       540,010  
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
    347       (163 )
 
           
Total VCA Antech, Inc. stockholders’ equity
    909,947       875,047  
Noncontrolling interest
    16,516       16,291  
 
           
 
               
Total equity
    926,463       891,338  
 
           
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 1,677,685     $ 1,627,404  
 
           
 
               
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Income Statements
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,
    2010     2009  
Revenue
  $ 330,734     $ 315,850  
Direct costs
    247,939       233,681  
 
           
Gross profit
    82,795       82,169  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    26,140       22,917  
Loss (gain) on sale and disposal of assets
    25       (248 )
 
           
Operating income
    56,630       59,500  
Interest expense, net
    3,167       6,118  
Other expense (income)
    25       (110 )
 
           
Income before provision for income taxes
    53,438       53,492  
Provision for income taxes
    20,506       20,611  
 
           
Net income
    32,932       32,881  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    997       911  
 
           
Net income attributable to VCA Antech, Inc.
  $ 31,935     $ 31,970  
 
           
 
               
Basic earnings per share
  $ 0.37     $ 0.38  
 
           
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 0.37     $ 0.37  
 
           
 
               
Weighted-average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share
    85,824       84,680  
 
           
Weighted-average shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share
    86,870       85,386  
 
           
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Equity
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
                                                         
                                    Accumulated              
                    Additional             Other              
    Common Stock     Paid-In     Accumulated     Comprehensive     Noncontrolling        
    Shares     Amount     Capital     Earnings     (Loss) Income     Interests     Total  
Balances, December 31, 2008
    84,633     $ 85     $ 308,674     $ 408,582     $ (6,352 )   $ 12,846     $ 723,835  
Net income
                      31,970             911       32,881  
Foreign currency translation adjustment
                            (178 )           (178 )
Unrealized loss on foreign currency, net of tax
                            (58 )           (58 )
Unrealized loss on hedging instruments, net of tax
                            (374 )           (374 )
Losses on hedging instruments reclassified to income, net of tax
                            1,976             1,976  
Formation of noncontrolling interest
                                  3,440       3,440  
Distribution to noncontrolling interest
                                  (888 )     (888 )
Share-based compensation
                1,976                         1,976  
Issuance of common stock under stock option plans
    71             557                         557  
Stock repurchases
                (180 )                       (180 )
Tax shortfall from stock options and awards
                (245 )                       (245 )
 
                                         
Balances, March 31, 2009
    84,704       85       310,782       440,552       (4,986 )     16,309       762,742  
 
                                         
 
                                                       
Balances, December 31, 2009
    85,584     $ 86     $ 335,114     $ 540,010     $ (163 )   $ 16,291     $ 891,338  
Net income
                      31,935             997       32,932  
Foreign currency translation adjustment
                            167             167  
Unrealized gain on foreign currency, net of tax
                            111             111  
Unrealized loss on hedging instruments, net of tax
                            (1 )           (1 )
Losses on hedging instruments reclassified to income, net of tax
                            233             233  
Formation of noncontrolling interest
                                  450       450  
Distribution to noncontrolling interest
                                  (989 )     (989 )
Purchase of noncontrolling interest
                                  (233 )     (233 )
Share-based compensation
                2,088                         2,088  
Issuance of common stock under stock option plans
    334             2,858                         2,858  
Stock repurchases
                (2,253 )                       (2,253 )
Tax shortfall from stock options and awards
                (238 )                       (238 )
 
                                         
Balances, March 31, 2010
    85,918     $ 86     $ 337,569     $ 571,945     $ 347     $ 16,516     $ 926,463  
 
                                         
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Cash flows from operating activities:
               
Net income
  $ 32,932     $ 32,881  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    10,707       9,152  
Amortization of debt issue costs
    132       120  
Provision for uncollectible accounts
    1,492       1,559  
Loss (gain) on sale and disposal of assets
    25       (248 )
Share-based compensation
    2,088       1,976  
Deferred income taxes
    7,232       5,304  
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
    (264 )      
Other
    (114 )     (148 )
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable
    (6,511 )     (5,455 )
Inventory, prepaid expenses and other assets
    644       (2,790 )
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities
    (288 )     (2,362 )
Accrued payroll and related liabilities
    9,954       (3,204 )
Income taxes
    12,527       14,413  
 
           
Net cash provided by operating activities
    70,556       51,198  
 
           
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
    (9,247 )     (14,467 )
Real estate acquired in connection with business acquisitions
    (1,300 )     (963 )
Property and equipment additions
    (16,049 )     (12,886 )
Proceeds from sale of assets
    6       74  
Other
    (61 )     (373 )
 
           
Net cash used in investing activities
    (26,651 )     (28,615 )
 
           
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Repayment of debt
    (10,822 )     (1,946 )
Distributions to noncontrolling interest partners
    (989 )     (888 )
Proceeds from issuance of common stock under stock option plans
    2,858       557  
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options
    264        
Stock repurchases
    (2,253 )     (180 )
 
           
Net cash used in financing activities
    (10,942 )     (2,457 )
 
           
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
    53       (1 )
 
           
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
    33,016       20,125  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    145,181       88,959  
 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 178,197     $ 109,084  
 
           
 
               
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
               
Interest paid
  $ 3,196     $ 6,430  
Income taxes paid
  $ 747     $ 894  
 
               
Supplemental schedule of noncash investing and financing activities:
               
Detail of acquisitions:
               
Fair value of assets acquired
  $ 8,868     $ 23,333  
Cash paid for acquisitions
    (8,528 )     (13,095 )
Noncash note conversion to equity interest in subsidiary
          (5,700 )
Contingent consideration
    (7 )      
 
           
Liabilities assumed
  $ 333     $ 4,538  
 
           
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed, consolidated financial statements.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2010
(Unaudited)
1. Nature of Operations
     Our company, VCA Antech, Inc. (“VCA”) is a Delaware corporation formed in 1986 and is based in Los Angeles, California. We are an animal healthcare company with three strategic segments: animal hospitals (“Animal Hospital”), veterinary diagnostic laboratories (“Laboratory”) and veterinary medical technology (“Medical Technology”).
     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 March 31, 2010, we operated 492 animal hospitals throughout 40 states.
     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 March 31, 2010, we operated 47 laboratories of various sizes located strategically throughout the United States and Canada.
     Our Medical Technology segment 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.
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 information and notes 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 months ended March 31, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2010. For further information, refer to our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
     Certain reclassifications have been made herein to 2009 amounts to conform to the current year presentation. During the quarter we reclassified certain business operations from our Medical Technology segment to our Laboratory segment; the reclassifications did not have a material impact on either of our segments.
     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.
3. Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements
     In October 2009, the FASB issued new accounting guidance related to multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. The new guidance was designed to result in financial reporting that better reflects the underlying economics of multiple-deliverable transactions. We early adopted the new guidance on January 1, 2010, which resulted in the more timely recognition of revenue in our Medical Technology business segment. The early adoption resulted in the recognition of $1.1 million in incremental revenue during the quarter in comparison to the revenue that would have been recognized under previous accounting guidance.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
3. Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements, continued
     Our Medical Technology business segment sells Digital Radiography (“DR”) imaging equipment to end users and to distributors in international markets which includes receptor plates, related computer equipment, software and additional related equipment, with one year of warranty support on the receptor plates and items related to the plates, and technical support on all software provided with the equipment. Distributors sell the DR products and warranties to the end customers and are responsible for all support provided directly to the end customer. The support that we provide to distributors is limited to the machines that are under a current support program and includes a level of warranty coordination, support and facilitation, including technical support related to the receptor plates, and receptor plate replacement during warranty repair ensuring limited down time to the end customer.
     Under the new accounting guidance, sales arrangement consideration is allocated at the inception of the arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method, whereby any discount in the arrangement is allocated proportionally to each deliverable on the basis of each deliverable’s selling price. The selling price for each deliverable is based on vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) if available, third-party evidence (“TPE”) if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price (“ESP”) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. For elements where VSOE is available, VSOE of fair value is based on the price for those products and services when sold separately by us or the price established by management with the relevant authority. TPE of selling price is the price of our, or any of our competitor’s, largely interchangeable products or services in stand-alone sales to similarly situated customers.
     We do not currently have VSOE for our DR imaging equipment as units are not sold on a stand-alone basis without the related support packages. As this is also true for our competitors, TPE of selling price is also unavailable. We therefore use the ESP to allocate the arrangement consideration related to our DR imaging equipment. Our ESP was based upon the actual selling price of our DR equipment bundled with our Sound Assurance warranty. We calculated the stand-alone selling price of the DR equipment using a cost plus margin approach. The stand-alone cost in most cases was determined using manufacturer data. The margin however was based upon the amount received on the actual sale of the bundled product, which does not differ materially from the margin exclusive of the post-contract customer support (“PCS”). By utilizing this cost plus actual margin method we were able to incorporate both our internal pricing strategies in addition to external market conditions.
     In domestic markets we have VSOE for our PCS as the support package is sold on a stand-alone basis. Our PCS agreements normally include a warranty on the receptor plate and technical support on the software elements. In foreign markets however, we do not have VSOE on the receptor plate warranties. Accordingly we use a similar cost plus margin approach to determine the ESP.
     Also in international markets revenue is recognized on the DR equipment upon delivery to the distributor and distributor acceptance. After the DR equipment is delivered there may be a delay as to when the warranty and software PCS period starts as the terms of the arrangement state that the PCS period starts the earlier of the date the DR equipment is delivered to the end user or three months after the DR equipment was delivered to the distributor, as such revenue recognition for the equipment does not start until the PCS period starts. Revenue for the warranty and software PCS is recognized on a straight-line basis over the PCS period.
     The changes made under the new accounting guidance did not cause any changes in the units of accounting related to our arrangements.
     The new guidance resulted in a different allocation of revenue to the deliverables in the current fiscal year, which changed the pattern and timing of revenue recognition for these elements but did not change the total revenue to be recognized for the arrangement. Revenue and gross profit increased by $1.1 million and $280,000, respectively, for the period ending March 31, 2010. The primary driver of the impact was the acceleration of revenue related to the delivery of the equipment in international markets, which under the previous accounting guidance was deferred over the PCS period as we were unable to establish VSOE for the undelivered elements.
     We are not able to reasonably estimate the effect of adopting these standards on future financial periods as the impact will vary based on the nature and volume of new or materially modified arrangements in any given period.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
   Goodwill
     Goodwill represents the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred, the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree and for a business combination achieved in stages, the acquisition-date fair value of any previously held equity interest over the net of the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The following table presents the changes in the carrying amount of our goodwill for the three months ended March 31, 2010 (in thousands):
                                 
    Animal             Medical        
    Hospital     Laboratory     Technology     Total  
Balance as of December 31, 2009
  $ 861,868     $ 96,285     $ 27,521     $ 985,674  
Goodwill acquired
    7,069       7             7,076  
Other (1)
    (157 )     388       2,142       2,373  
 
                       
Balance as of March 31, 2010
  $ 868,780     $ 96,680     $ 29,663     $ 995,123  
 
                       
 
(1)   Other includes purchase-price adjustments which consist primarily of an adjustment to the valuation of deferred tax assets, buy-outs, earn-out payments and foreign currency translation adjustments.
   Other Intangible Assets
     In addition to goodwill, we have amortizable intangible assets at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 as follows (in thousands):
                                                 
    As of March 31, 2010     As of December 31, 2009  
    Gross             Net     Gross             Net  
    Carrying     Accumulated     Carrying     Carrying     Accumulated     Carrying  
    Amount     Amortization     Amount     Amount     Amortization     Amount  
Noncontractual customer relationships
  $ 39,483     $ (9,425 )   $ 30,058     $ 38,359     $ (8,077 )   $ 30,282  
Covenants not-to-compete
    14,163       (7,659 )     6,504       14,748       (7,785 )     6,963  
Favorable lease asset
    5,406       (2,277 )     3,129       5,406       (2,150 )     3,256  
Trademarks
    3,379       (598 )     2,781       3,362       (494 )     2,868  
Technology
    2,209       (1,366 )     843       2,209       (1,332 )     877  
Client lists
    48       (18 )     30       60       (26 )     34  
 
                                   
Total
  $ 64,688     $ (21,343 )   $ 43,345     $ 64,144     $ (19,864 )   $ 44,280  
 
                                   
     The following table summarizes our aggregate amortization expense related to other intangible assets (in thousands):
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Aggregate amortization expense
  $ 2,154     $ 1,807  
 
           

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, continued
     The estimated amortization expense related to intangible assets for the remainder of 2010 and each of the succeeding years thereafter as of March 31, 2010 is as follows (in thousands):
         
Remainder of 2010
  $ 6,735  
2011
    8,199  
2012
    7,204  
2013
    5,084  
2014
    2,841  
Thereafter
    13,282  
 
     
Total
  $ 43,345  
 
     
5. Other Accrued Liabilities
     Other accrued liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
                 
    March 31,     December 31,  
    2010     2009  
Deferred revenue
  $ 11,321     $ 12,497  
Accrued health insurance
    4,745       4,484  
Deferred rent
    3,022       2,989  
Accrued workers’ compensation insurance
    2,385       2,217  
Customer deposits
    2,157       3,783  
Other
    16,911       17,328  
 
           
 
  $ 40,541     $ 43,298  
 
           
6. Interest Rate Swap Agreements
     In accordance with current accounting guidance, all investments in derivatives are recorded at fair value. A derivative is typically defined as an instrument whose value is “derived” from an underlying instrument, index or rate, has a notional amount, requires little or no initial investment and can be net settled. Our derivatives are reported as current assets and liabilities or other non-current assets or liabilities as appropriate.
     We use interest rate swap agreements to mitigate our exposure to increasing interest rates as well as to maintain an appropriate mix of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt.
     If we determine that contracts are effective at meeting our risk reduction and correlation criteria we account for them using hedge accounting. Under hedge accounting, we recognize the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the contracts in other comprehensive income and the ineffective portion in earnings. If we determine that contracts do not, or no longer, meet our risk reduction and correlation criteria, we account for them under a fair-value method recognizing changes in the fair value in earnings in the period of change. If we determine that a contract no longer meets our risk reduction and correlation criteria, or if the derivative expires, we recognize in earnings any accumulated balance in other comprehensive income related to the contract in the period of determination. For interest rate swap agreements accounted for under hedge accounting, we assess the effectiveness based on changes in their intrinsic value with changes in the time value portion of the contract reflected in earnings. All cash payments made or received under the contracts are recognized in interest expense.
     Credit exposure associated with nonperformance by the counterparties to derivative instruments is generally limited to the uncollateralized fair value of the asset related to instruments recognized in the consolidated balance sheets. We attempt to mitigate the risk of nonperformance by selecting counterparties with high credit ratings and monitoring their creditworthiness and by diversifying derivative amounts with multiple counterparties.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
6. Interest Rate Swap Agreements, continued
     The contractual or notional amounts for derivatives are used to calculate the exchange of contractual payments under the agreements and are not representative of the potential for gain or loss on these instruments. Interest rates affect the fair value of derivatives. The fair values generally represent the estimated amounts that we would expect to receive or pay upon termination of the contracts at the reporting date. The fair values are based upon dealer quotes when available or an estimate using values obtained from independent pricing services, costs to settle or quoted market prices of comparable instruments.
     As of the quarter ended March 31, 2010, all of our interest rate swap agreements have expired.
     The following table summarizes cash received or cash paid and ineffectiveness reported in earnings as a result of our interest rate swap agreements (in thousands):
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Cash paid (1)
  $ 382     $ 3,245  
Recognized gain from ineffectiveness (2)
  $     $ (49 )
 
(1)   Our interest rate swap agreements effectively converted a certain amount of our variable-rate debt under our senior credit facility to fixed-rate for purposes of hedging against the risk of increasing interests rates. The above table depicts cash payments to the counterparties on our swap agreements. These payments and receipts are offset by a corresponding decrease or increase in interest paid on our variable-rate debt under our senior credit facility. These amounts are included in interest expense, net in our condensed, consolidated income statements.
 
(2)   The recognized gain is included in other income in our condensed, consolidated income statements.
7. Fair Value Measurements
     Current fair value accounting guidance includes a hierarchy that is intended to increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures. The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity’s pricing based upon their own market assumptions. The current guidance establishes a three-tiered fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:
    Level 1. Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets;
 
    Level 2. Inputs, other than quoted prices, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and
 
    Level 3. Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
7. Fair Value Measurements, continued
     Fair Value of Financial Instruments
     The FASB accounting guidance requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not 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. We believe the carrying values of our variable-rate debt at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 are not reasonable estimates of fair value due to changes in the credit markets during 2009 and 2010. We have estimated the fair value of our variable-rate debt using discounted cash flow techniques utilizing current market rates, which incorporate our credit risk.
     The following table reflects the carrying value and fair value of our long-term debt (in thousands):
                                 
    As of March 31, 2010     As of December 31, 2009  
    Carrying     Fair     Carrying     Fair  
    Value     Value     Value     Value  
Variable-rate long-term debt
  $ 506,773     $ 504,919     $ 516,889     $ 513,053  
 
                       
     Interest Rate Swap Agreements. We use the market approach to measure fair value for our interest rate swap agreements. The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving comparable assets or liabilities.
     The following table reflects the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements, which is measured on a recurring basis as defined by the FASB accounting guidance (in thousands):
                                 
            Basis of Fair Value Measurement  
            Quoted Prices     Significant Other     Significant  
            In Active Markets     Observable     Unobservable  
            for Identical Items     Inputs     Inputs  
    Balance     (Level 1)     (Level 2)     (Level 3)  
At December 31, 2009
                               
Other accrued liabilities
  $ 380     $     $ 380     $  
 
                       
     As of March 31, 2010, we do not have any applicable non-recurring measurements of non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
8. Share-Based Compensation
Stock Option Activity
     A summary of our stock option activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 is as follows (in thousands):
                 
            Weighted-  
            Average  
    Stock     Exercise  
    Options     Price  
Outstanding at January 1, 2010
    4,300     $ 16.72  
Exercised
    (173 )     16.47  
 
           
Outstanding at March 31, 2010
    4,127     $ 16.73  
 
           
 
               
Exercisable at March 31, 2010
    3,377     $ 16.66  
 
           
 
               
Expected to vest at March 31, 2010
    716     $ 17.04  
 
           
     There were no stock options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2010. The aggregate intrinsic value of our stock options exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2010 was $1.6 million, and the actual tax benefit realized on options exercised during the period was $607,000.
     At March 31, 2010 there was $3.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to our stock options. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.9 years.
     The compensation cost that has been charged against income for stock options for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 was $471,000 and $507,000, respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized was $183,000 and $198,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
  Nonvested Stock Activity
     During the three months ended March 31, 2010 there were no grants of nonvested common stock.
     Total compensation cost charged against income related to nonvested stock awards was $1.6 million and $1.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized in the income statement was $629,000 and $574,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
     At March 31, 2010, there was $8.3 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to these nonvested shares, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.1 years. A summary of our nonvested stock activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 is as follows:
                 
            Weighted-  
            Average Fair  
            Value  
    Shares     Per Share  
Outstanding at December 31, 2009
    691,764     $ 30.54  
Granted
           
Vested
    (250,154 )   $ 31.71  
Forfeited/Canceled
    (8,630 )   $ 30.35  
 
             
Outstanding at March 31, 2010
    432,980     $ 29.87  
 
             

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
9. 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 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  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Net income attributable to VCA Antech, Inc.
  $ 31,935     $ 31,970  
 
           
 
               
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
               
Basic
    85,824       84,680  
Effect of dilutive potential common shares:
               
Stock options
    870       568  
Nonvested shares
    176       138  
 
           
Diluted
    86,870       85,386  
 
           
 
               
Basic earnings per share
  $ 0.37     $ 0.38  
 
           
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 0.37     $ 0.37  
 
           
     For the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, potential common shares of 79,918 and 2,417,761, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have had an antidilutive effect.
10. Comprehensive Income
     Total comprehensive income consists of net income and the other comprehensive income during the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009. The following table provides a summary of comprehensive income (in thousands):
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Net income
  $ 32,932     $ 32,881  
Other comprehensive income:
               
Foreign currency translation adjustments
    167       (178 )
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency
    182       (95 )
Tax (expense) benefit
    (71 )     37  
Unrealized loss on hedging instruments
    (2 )     (614 )
Tax benefit
    1       240  
Losses on hedging instruments reclassified to income
    382       3,245  
Tax benefit
    (149 )     (1,269 )
 
           
Other comprehensive income
    510       1,366  
 
           
Total comprehensive income
    33,442       34,247  
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (997 )     (911 )
 
           
Comprehensive income attributable to VCA Antech, Inc.
  $ 32,445     $ 33,336  
 
           

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
11. Lines of Business
     Our reportable segments are Animal Hospital, Laboratory and Medical Technology. These 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. 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 Medical Technology segment sells digital radiography and ultrasound imaging equipment, related computer hardware, software and ancillary services to the veterinary market. 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 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K. See Note 3, Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements, for an update on our revenue recognition policies as a result of implementing the FASB’s accounting guidance on multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. 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.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
11. Lines of Business, continued
     The following is a summary of certain financial data for each of our segments (in thousands):
                                                 
    Animal             Medical             Intercompany        
    Hospital     Laboratory(1)     Technology(1)     Corporate     Eliminations     Total(1)  
Three Months Ended March 31, 2010
                                               
External revenue
  $ 246,668     $ 69,400     $ 14,666     $     $     $ 330,734  
Intercompany revenue
          8,780       1,131             (9,911 )      
 
                                   
Total revenue
    246,668       78,180       15,797             (9,911 )     330,734  
Direct costs
    204,991       41,652       10,966             (9,670 )     247,939  
 
                                   
Gross profit
    41,677       36,528       4,831             (241 )     82,795  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    5,587       6,154       3,515       10,884             26,140  
Net (gain) loss on sale and disposal of assets
    (16 )     1       40                   25  
 
                                   
Operating income (loss)
  $ 36,106     $ 30,373     $ 1,276     $ (10,884 )   $ (241 )   $ 56,630  
 
                                   
 
                                               
Depreciation and amortization
  $ 7,352     $ 2,413     $ 601     $ 581     $ (240 )   $ 10,707  
Capital expenditures
  $ 13,128     $ 832     $ 82     $ 2,327     $ (320 )   $ 16,049  
 
                                               
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009
                                               
External revenue
  $ 238,358     $ 69,713     $ 7,779     $     $     $ 315,850  
Intercompany revenue
          8,149       1,006             (9,155 )      
 
                                   
Total revenue
    238,358       77,862       8,785             (9,155 )     315,850  
Direct costs
    195,194       41,831       5,557             (8,901 )     233,681  
 
                                   
Gross profit
    43,164       36,031       3,228             (254 )     82,169  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    5,384       5,567       2,812       9,154             22,917  
Net (gain) loss on sale and disposal of assets
    (259 )     2       1       8             (248 )
 
                                   
Operating income (loss)
  $ 38,039     $ 30,462     $ 415     $ (9,162 )   $ (254 )   $ 59,500  
 
                                   
 
                                               
Depreciation and amortization
  $ 6,299     $ 2,195     $ 357     $ 488     $ (187 )   $ 9,152  
Capital expenditures
  $ 9,123     $ 2,129     $ 1,121     $ 885     $ (372 )   $ 12,886  
At March 31, 2010
                                               
Total assets
  $ 1,173,654     $ 210,394     $ 71,238     $ 233,855     $ (11,456 )   $ 1,677,685  
 
                                   
At December 31, 2009
                                               
Total assets
  $ 1,158,891     $ 207,043     $ 71,019     $ 201,024     $ (10,573 )   $ 1,627,404  
 
                                   
 
(1)   Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to reflect the transfer of certain business operations to the Laboratory segment from the Medical Technology segment. The reclassifications did not have a material impact on either of our segments.

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VCA Antech, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed, Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
12. Commitments and Contingencies
     We have certain commitments, including operating leases and purchase agreements. These items are discussed in detail in our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2009 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 that were accounted for under previous business combinations accounting guidance, 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 expire and the attainment of criteria is established. If the specified financial criteria are attained, at March 31, 2010, we will be obligated to pay an additional $1.7 million. We adopted new accounting guidance regarding business combinations for acquisitions with acquisition dates of January 1, 2009 or later. Under the new guidance contingent consideration, such as earn-out liabilities, is now recognized as part of the consideration transferred on the acquisition date and a corresponding liability is recorded based on the fair value of the liability. The changes in fair value are recognized in earnings where applicable at each reporting period.
   b. Other Contingencies
     We have certain contingent liabilities resulting from litigation and claims incident to the ordinary course of our business. We believe that the probable resolution of such contingencies will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
     In the fourth quarter of 2009, we received correspondence from the state of New York which included a proposed assessment of taxes payable related to our reported taxable income for the tax years from 2004 through 2006. We have evaluated the proposal and have determined that it is more likely than not that our position will be upheld.
13. Subsequent Events
     On April 8, 2010, pursuant to our warrant agreement we purchased 34% of the outstanding stock of Strategic Pharmaceutical Solutions, Inc. (“Vet Source”) for $1.0 million. We anticipate that this investment will be accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting which involves recording 34% of the net income or loss of Vet Source at each reporting period. In addition, we entered into a consulting agreement whereby VCA will receive a fee of $1.0 million for advisory services to be provided to Vet Source management over the remainder of the 2010 fiscal year.

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ITEM 2.   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
         
    Page  
    17  
    18  
    19  
    21  
    22  
    27  

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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 May 7, 2010, and we undertake no duty to update this information. Shareholders and prospective investors can find information filed with the SEC after May 7, 2010 at our website at http://investor.vcaantech.com or at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
     We are a leading national animal healthcare company. We provide veterinary services and diagnostic testing to support veterinary care and we sell diagnostic imaging equipment, other medical technology products and related services to veterinarians. 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 March 31, 2010, our animal hospital network consisted of 492 animal hospitals in 40 states.
    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 March 31, 2010, our Laboratory network consisted of 47 laboratories serving all 50 states and certain areas in Canada.
    Our Medical Technology segment sells digital radiography and ultrasound imaging equipment, related computer hardware, software and ancillary services.
     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, heartworm and ticks, and the number of daylight hours.
     Our revenue has been adversely impacted by the current economic recession. We are unable to forecast the timing or degree of any economic recovery. Further, trends in the general economy may not be reflected in our business at the same time or in the same degree as in the general economy. The timing and degree of any economic recovery, and its impact on our business, are among the important factors that could cause our actual results to differ from our forward-looking information.

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Executive Overview
     During the three months ended March 31, 2010 we experienced relative improvement in our revenue growth rate in comparison to previous quarters. We continued to recover from the effects of the economic recession; however, we were confronted by record adverse weather conditions throughout certain parts of the country which impacted both our Animal Hospital and Laboratory revenues. Although our Animal Hospital same-store revenue declined, we achieved an increase in consolidated revenue through selective animal hospital acquisitions. We also experienced substantial growth in our Medical Technology segment partially related to the expansion of our business as a result of the acquisition of Eklin. Overall economic conditions and adverse weather resulted in declines in our operating income. Our overall earnings were flat in comparison to the prior year.
   Acquisitions and Facilities
     Our growth strategy includes the acquisition of independent animal hospitals. We currently anticipate that we will acquire $50.0 million to $60.0 million of annualized Animal Hospital revenue by the end of 2010. In addition, we also evaluate the acquisition of animal hospital chains, laboratories, or related businesses if favorable opportunities are presented. The following table summarizes the changes in the number of facilities operated by our Animal Hospital and Laboratory segments during the three months ended March 31, 2010:
         
Animal Hospitals:
       
Beginning of period
    489  
Acquisitions
    4  
Sold, closed or merged
    (1 )
 
     
End of period
    492  
 
     
 
       
Laboratories:
       
Beginning of period
    47  
Acquisitions
     
Acquisitions relocated into our existing laboratories
    (1 )
Created
    1  
 
     
End of period
    47  
 
     
     The following table summarizes the aggregate consideration for the four animal hospitals acquired during the three months ended March 31, 2010, and the allocation of the purchase price (in thousands):
         
Consideration:
       
Cash (1)
  $ 8,528  
Contingent consideration
    7  
 
     
Fair value of total consideration transferred
  $ 8,535  
 
     
 
       
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
       
Tangible assets
  $ 584  
Identifiable intangible assets
    1,208  
Goodwill (2)
    7,076  
Other liabilities assumed
    (333 )
 
     
Total
  $ 8,535  
 
     
 
(1)   See the Cash Flows from Investing Activities section in the Liquidity and Capital Resources discussion for reconciliation of cash paid for acquisitions per this schedule to the condensed, consolidated statement of cash flows.
 
(2)   We expect that $7.1 million of the goodwill recorded for these acquisitions as of March 31, 2010 will be fully deductible for income tax purposes.

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     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 $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010.
   Acquisition of Eklin Medical Systems, Inc.
     On July 1, 2009, we acquired Eklin, a leading seller of digital radiography and ultrasound systems in the veterinary market. We acquired Eklin for a purchase price of $12.5 million, net of cash acquired of $1.0 million. The following table summarizes the consideration and allocation of the purchase price (in thousands):
         
Consideration:
       
Cash
  $ 12,504  
 
     
Fair value of total consideration transferred
  $ 12,504  
 
     
 
       
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
       
Tangible assets
  $ 6,830  
Identifiable intangible assets
    7,351  
Goodwill (1)
    10,875  
Other liabilities assumed
    (12,552 )
 
     
Total
  $ 12,504  
 
     
 
(1)   We expect that $3.4 million of the goodwill recorded for this acquisition as of March 31, 2010 will be fully deductible for income tax purposes.
     Eklin has been combined with Sound Technologies, Inc. (“STI”) and is reported within our Medical Technology segment.
     The pro forma impacts on revenue and earnings have not been disclosed for the current or comparable prior periods as the amounts were immaterial to the financial statements as a whole.
Critical Accounting Policies
     Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“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 consolidated financial statements. A discussion of such critical accounting policies, which include revenue recognition, valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets, income taxes, and self-insured liabilities can be found in our 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K. During the quarter ended March 31, 2010, we implemented new accounting guidance related to multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. Other than the changes to our revenue recognition policies there have been no other material changes to the policies noted above as of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2010.

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   Medical Technology Revenue
     We sell our digital radiography imaging equipment with multiple elements, including hardware, software, licenses and/or services. Under new accounting guidance, tangible products containing software components and nonsoftware components that function together to deliver the tangible product’s essential functionality are now accounted for under the FASB’s guidance pertaining to multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. These types of arrangements were previously accounted for under software accounting guidance. Accordingly we now account for our digital radiography imaging equipment under this revised guidance.
     Sales arrangement consideration is allocated at the inception of the arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method, whereby any discount in the arrangement is allocated proportionally to each deliverable on the basis of each deliverable’s selling price. The selling price for each deliverable is based on vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) if available, third-party evidence (“TPE”) if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price (“ESP”) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. For elements where VSOE is available, VSOE of fair value is based on the price for those products and services when sold separately by us or the price established by management with the relevant authority. TPE of selling price is the price of our, or any of our competitor’s, largely interchangeable products or services in stand-alone sales to similarly situated customers. Our ESP was based upon the actual selling price of our DR equipment bundled with our Sound Assurance warranty. We calculated the stand-alone selling price of the DR equipment using a cost plus margin approach. The stand-alone cost in most cases was determined using manufacturer data. The margin however was based upon the amount received on the actual sale of the bundled product, which does not differ materially from the margin exclusive of the post-contract customer support (“PCS”). By utilizing this cost plus actual margin method we were able to incorporate both our internal pricing strategies in addition to external market conditions.
     We do not currently have VSOE for our digital radiography imaging equipment as units are not sold on a stand-alone basis without support packages. As this is also true for our competitors, TPE of selling price is also unavailable. We therefore use the ESP to determine the selling price of our digital radiography imaging equipment using the methodology mentioned above. See Note 3, Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements, in our condensed, consolidated financial statements of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for a more detailed discussion.
     We recognize revenue when the services are provided or at the time of delivery or installation and customer acceptance. Generally, at the time of delivery and installation of equipment the only undelivered item is the PCS. This obligation is contractually defined in both terms of scope and period. For the PCS, we recognize the revenue for these services on a straight-line basis over the period of support and we expense the costs of these services as they are incurred.

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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  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Revenue:
               
Animal Hospital
    74.6 %     75.5 %
Laboratory
    23.6       24.6  
Medical Technology
    4.8       2.8  
Intercompany
    (3.0 )     (2.9 )
 
           
Total revenue
    100.0       100.0  
Direct costs
    75.0       74.0  
 
           
Gross profit
    25.0       26.0  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    7.9       7.2  
 
           
Operating income
    17.1       18.8  
Interest expense, net
    0.9       1.9  
 
           
Income before provision for income taxes
    16.2       16.9  
Provision for income taxes
    6.2       6.5  
 
           
Net income
    10.0       10.4  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    0.3       0.3  
 
           
Net income attributable to VCA Antech, Inc.
    9.7 %     10.1 %
 
           
Revenue
     The following table summarizes our revenue (in thousands, except percentages):
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009        
            % of             % of     %  
    $     Total     $     Total     Change  
Animal Hospital
  $ 246,668       74.6 %   $ 238,358       75.5 %     3.5 %
Laboratory (1)
    78,180       23.6 %     77,862       24.6 %     0.4 %
Medical Technology (1)
    15,797       4.8 %     8,785       2.8 %     79.8 %
Intercompany
    (9,911 )     (3.0 )%     (9,155 )     (2.9 )%     8.3 %
 
                                   
Total revenue
  $ 330,734       100.0 %   $ 315,850       100.0 %     4.7 %
 
                                   
 
(1)   Prior year amounts have been adjusted to reflect the reclassification of certain business operations from our Medical Technology segment to our Laboratory segment, (see Note 11, Lines of Business). The reclassification did not have a material impact on either segment.
     Consolidated revenue increased $14.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase was primarily attributable to revenue from acquired animal hospitals and increased revenue from our Medical Technology business segment to some extent related to our ability to integrate the Eklin product line, partially offset by a decline in Animal Hospital same-store revenue of 1.6%.

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Gross Profit
     The following table summarizes our gross profit in both dollars and as a percentage of applicable revenue, or gross margin (in thousands, except percentages):
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009        
            Gross             Gross     %  
    $     Margin     $     Margin     Change  
Animal Hospital
  $ 41,677       16.9 %   $ 43,164       18.1 %     (3.4 )%
Laboratory
    36,528       46.7 %     36,031       46.3 %     1.4 %
Medical Technology
    4,831       30.6 %     3,228       36.7 %     49.7 %
Intercompany
    (241 )             (254 )                
 
                                   
Total gross profit
  $ 82,795       25.0 %   $ 82,169       26.0 %     0.8 %
 
                                   
     Consolidated gross profit increased $626,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase was primarily due to increased sales in our Medical Technology segment of digital radiography and ultrasound equipment partially offset by a decline in the gross profit margins due to a shift in product mix in that segment. The increase was also partially offset by a decline in both acquired and same-store Animal Hospital gross margins.
Segment Results
   Animal Hospital Segment
     The following table summarizes revenue, gross profit and gross margin for our Animal Hospital segment (in thousands, except percentages):
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009     % Change  
Revenue
  $ 246,668     $ 238,358       3.5 %
Gross profit
  $ 41,677     $ 43,164       (3.4 )%
Gross margin
    16.9 %     18.1 %        
     Animal Hospital revenue increased $8.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to the same period 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 March 31,  
    2010     2009     % Change  
Same-store facilities:
                       
Orders (1)
    1,471       1,544       (4.7 )%
Average revenue per order (2)
  $ 156.85     $ 151.88       3.3 %
 
                   
Same-store revenue (1)
  $ 230,696     $ 234,490       (1.6 )%
Net acquired revenue (3)
    15,972       3,868          
 
                   
Total
  $ 246,668     $ 238,358       3.5 %
 
                   

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(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 period in the prior year. 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 those animal hospitals acquired, net of revenue from those animal hospitals sold or closed, on or after the beginning of the comparable period, which was January 1, 2009 for the three month analysis. Fluctuations in net acquired revenue occur due to the volume, size, and timing of acquisitions and dispositions during the periods from this date through the end of the applicable period.
     During the three months ended March 31, 2010 our volume of same-store orders declined due to the current economic environment further compounded by the adverse weather conditions on the East Coast during the first part of the year. In addition, some pet-related products traditionally sold in our animal hospitals are now widely available in retail stores and other distribution channels such as the Internet.
     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 mentioned above and our emphasis on comprehensive wellness visits has resulted in a decrease in lower priced orders and an increase in higher priced orders. However, during the three months ended March 31, 2010 we experienced a decrease in the number of both lower and higher priced orders primarily as a result of current economic conditions and to a lesser extent the impact of changes in our overall business environment on the mix of tests performed.
     Price increases also contributed to the 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 have approximated 3% to 6% on most services at the majority of our animal hospitals and are typically implemented in February of each year; however, during the quarter ended March 31, 2010 price adjustments were in the 2-3% range.
     Animal Hospital gross profit is calculated as Animal Hospital revenue less Animal Hospital direct costs. Animal Hospital direct costs are comprised of 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 expenses, and costs of goods sold associated with the retail sales of pet food and pet supplies.
     Our combined Animal Hospital gross margin decreased to 16.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2010 from 18.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2009. Our same-store gross margin decreased to 17.4% for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to 18.3% for the comparable prior year period.
     The decrease in same-store gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was attributable to the decline in same-store revenue, increases in certain labor costs, primarily payroll taxes, and overall increases in office and administration and depreciation and amortization expenses. The combined Animal Hospital gross margin was further impacted by the lower gross margins from our 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 by improving animal hospital revenue, reducing costs and/or increasing operating leverage.

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Laboratory Segment
     The following table summarizes revenue and gross profit for our Laboratory segment (in thousands, except percentages):
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009     % Change  
Revenue
  $ 78,180     $ 77,862       0.4 %
Gross profit
  $ 36,528     $ 36,031       1.4 %
Gross margin
    46.7 %     46.3 %        
     Laboratory revenue increased $318,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to the same period in the prior year. The components of the increase in Laboratory revenue are detailed below (in thousands, except percentages and average revenue per requisition):
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009     % Change  
Internal growth:
                       
Number of requisitions (1)
    3,206       3,275       (2.1 )%
Average revenue per requisition (2)
  $ 24.33     $ 23.77       2.4 %
 
                   
Total internal revenue (1)
  $ 77,997     $ 77,862       0.2 %
Acquired revenue (3)
    183                
 
                   
Total
  $ 78,180     $ 77,862       0.4 %
 
                   
 
(1)   Internal revenue and requisitions were calculated using Laboratory operating results, adjusted to exclude the operating results of acquired laboratories for the comparable periods that we did not own them in the prior year and adjusted for the impact resulting from any differences in the number of billing days in comparable periods.
 
(2)   Computed by dividing internal revenue by the number of requisitions.
 
(3)   Acquired revenue represents the revenue recognized from our acquired laboratories for the comparable current year period that we did not own them in the prior year.
     The increase in Laboratory revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was due to a slight increase in internal revenue as increases in average revenue per requisition were mostly offset by a decline in overall volume.
     Requisitions from internal growth have been driven by an ongoing trend in veterinary medicine to focus on the importance of laboratory diagnostic testing in the diagnosis, early detection and treatment of diseases, and the migration of certain tests to outside laboratories that have historically been performed in animal hospitals. While these factors historically have resulted in significant increases in internal requisitions, the economic environment continues to impact requisitions.
     The average revenue per requisition increased slightly for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to prior year periods due to price increases which ranged from 3% to 4% in both February 2010 and February 2009. The price increases were largely offset by other factors including changes in the mix, performing lower-priced tests historically performed at the animal hospitals, and a decrease in higher-priced tests as a result of the current economic environment.
     Laboratory gross profit is calculated as Laboratory revenue less Laboratory direct costs. Laboratory direct costs are comprised of 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.

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     Our Laboratory gross margin increased slightly to 46.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to 46.3% in the prior year’s comparable period. The gross margin remained comparable to the prior year period as increases in transportation costs were more than offset by decreases in direct labor costs and laboratory supplies.
Medical Technology Segment
     The following table summarizes revenue and gross profit for our Medical Technology segment (in thousands, except percentages):
                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009     % Change  
Revenue
  $ 15,797     $ 8,785       79.8 %
Gross profit
  $ 4,831     $ 3,228       49.7 %
Gross margin
    30.6 %     36.7 %        
     Medical Technology revenue increased $7.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to the prior year comparable period. The increase was due to increases in the unit sales of each of our digital radiography equipment product lines partially due to our ability to integrate the Eklin product line. In addition, we experienced an overall increase in revenue per unit due to a shift in product mix. Customer service revenue and ultrasound sales also increased during the quarter. Medical Technology revenue also benefited from a change in our revenue recognition policy due to the implementation of new accounting guidance. See Note 3, Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements.
     Medical Technology gross profit is calculated as Medical Technology revenue less Medical Technology direct costs. Medical Technology direct costs are comprised of all product and service costs, including, but not limited to, all costs of equipment, related products and services, salaries of technicians, support personnel, trainers, consultants and other non-administrative personnel, depreciation and amortization and supply costs.
     Medical Technology gross profit increased $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, as compared to the prior year comparable period and gross margin decreased to 30.6% from 36.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and March 31, 2009, respectively. The increase in gross profit is attributable to the increase in revenue as discussed above. The decline in gross margin was due in part to a change in the product mix related to sales of certain products offered as a result of our acquisition of Eklin.
Intercompany Revenue
     Laboratory revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2010 included intercompany revenue of $8.8 million that was generated by providing laboratory services to our animal hospitals. Medical Technology revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2010 included intercompany revenue of $1.1 million that was generated by providing products and services to our animal hospitals and laboratories. For purposes of reviewing the operating performance of our business 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.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expense
     The following table summarizes our selling, general and administrative expense (“SG&A”) in both dollars and as a percentage of applicable revenue (in thousands, except percentages):
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009        
            % of             % of     %  
    $     Revenue     $     Revenue     Change  
Animal Hospital
  $ 5,587       2.3 %   $ 5,384       2.3 %     3.8 %
Laboratory
    6,154       7.9 %     5,567       7.1 %     10.5 %
Medical Technology
    3,515       22.3 %     2,812       32.0 %     25.0 %
Corporate
    10,884       3.3 %     9,154       2.9 %     18.9 %
 
                                   
Total SG&A
  $ 26,140       7.9 %   $ 22,917       7.2 %     14.1 %
 
                                   
     Consolidated SG&A increased $3.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010 primarily due to corporate SG&A which rose due to increases in legal fees and payroll related costs. Laboratory SG&A increased primarily due to higher marketing and tradeshow costs, and Medical Technology which increased related to the expansion of the overall business.
Operating Income
     The following table summarizes our operating income in both dollars and as a percentage of applicable revenue (in thousands, except percentages):
                                         
    Three Months Ended March 31,  
    2010     2009        
            % of             % of     %  
    $     Revenue     $     Revenue     Change  
Animal Hospital
  $ 36,106       14.6 %   $ 38,039       16.0 %     (5.1 )%
Laboratory
    30,373       38.9 %     30,462       39.1 %     (0.3 )%
Medical Technology
    1,276       8.1 %     415       4.7 %     207.5 %
Corporate
    (10,884 )             (9,162 )             18.8 %
Intercompany
    (241 )             (254 )             (5.1 )%
 
                                   
Total operating income
  $ 56,630       17.1 %   $ 59,500       18.8 %     (4.8 )%
 
                                   
     The decrease in our consolidated operating income during the three months ended March 31, 2010 was primarily due to the aforementioned decline in Animal Hospital gross profit.

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Interest Expense, Net
     The following table summarizes our interest expense, net of interest income (in thousands):
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Interest expense (income):
               
Senior term notes
  $ 2,249     $ 2,587  
Interest rate hedging agreements
    382       3,245  
Capital leases and other
    564       580  
Amortization of debt costs
    132       120  
 
           
 
    3,327       6,532  
Interest income
    (160 )     (414 )
 
           
Total interest expense, net of interest income
  $ 3,167     $ 6,118  
 
           
     The decrease in net interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was attributable to a decrease in the overall weighted average interest rate primarily due to the gradual expiration of all of our higher cost fixed-rate swap agreements during the last twelve months.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Introduction
     We generate cash primarily from payments made by customers for our veterinary services, payments from animal hospitals and other clients for our laboratory services, and from proceeds received from the sale of our imaging equipment and other related services. 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 animal hospital 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 March 31, 2010, our consolidated cash and cash equivalents totaled $178.2 million, representing an increase of $33.0 million as compared to December 31, 2009. Cash flows generated from operating activities totaled $70.6 million in 2010, representing an increase of $19.4 million as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2009.
     We have historically funded our working capital requirements, capital expenditures and investment in individual acquisitions from internally generated cash flows and we expect to do so in the future. As of March 31, 2010, we have access to an unused $75.0 million revolving credit facility; however the revolving credit facility will expire in May 2010. We do not plan to renew this facility upon expiration. Historically, we have been able to obtain cash from other additional borrowings. 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 that we believe to be reasonable, there is a possibility that we may not be able to obtain financing on favorable terms in the future.

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Future Cash Flows
   Short-Term
     Other than our acquisitions of animal hospital chains, we historically have funded our working capital requirements, capital expenditures and investments in animal hospital acquisitions from internally generated cash flows. We anticipate that our cash on hand and net cash provided by operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements for the next 12 months. If we consummate one or more significant acquisitions of animal hospital chains during this period, we may seek additional debt or equity financing.
     For the year ended December 31, 2010, we expect to spend $50.0 million to $60.0 million, excluding real estate, related to 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. During the quarter ended March 31, 2010, we spent $8.5 million in connection with the acquisition of four animal hospitals, as well as $1.3 million for the related real estate. In addition, we expect to spend approximately $65.0 million in 2010 for both property and equipment additions and capital costs necessary to maintain our existing facilities.
   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. In addition to the scheduled payments on our senior-term notes, we are required to make mandatory prepayments in the event we have excess cash flow. Pursuant to the terms of our senior credit facility, mandatory prepayments are due on our senior-term notes equal to 75% of any excess cash flow at the end of 2010 and 2011. During the quarter ended March 31, 2010 we paid approximately $8.8 million related to 2009 excess cash flows. Excess cash flow is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, less voluntary and scheduled debt repayments, capital expenditures, interest payable in cash, taxes payable in cash and cash paid for acquisitions. These payments reduce on a pro rata basis the remaining scheduled principal payments.
     We expect that our long-term cash flow from operations will not be sufficient to repay our long-term debt when it comes due in May 2011. We anticipate that we will refinance such indebtedness, amend its terms to extend the maturity dates, or issue common stock in our company. We do not plan to renew our revolver when it expires in May 2010; however, we are currently evaluating proposals to refinance our senior term debt from several different lending institutions. Our management cannot make any assurances that such refinancing, amendments, or equity offering, if necessary, will be available on attractive terms, if at all.
   Debt Related Covenants
     Our senior credit facility contains certain financial covenants pertaining to fixed-charge coverage and leverage ratios. In addition, the senior credit facility has restrictions pertaining to capital expenditures, acquisitions and the payment of cash dividends. As of March 31, 2010, we were in compliance with these covenants, including the two covenant ratios, the fixed-charge coverage ratio and the leverage ratio.
     At March 31, 2010, we had a fixed-charge coverage ratio of 1.74 to 1.00, which was in compliance with the required ratio of no less than 1.20 to 1.00. The senior credit facility defines the fixed-charge 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 fixed charges. Fixed charges are defined as cash interest expense, scheduled principal payments on debt obligations, capital expenditures, and provision for income taxes. Pro forma earnings include 12 months of operating results for businesses acquired during the period.
     At March 31, 2010, we had a leverage ratio of 1.84 to 1.00, which was in compliance with the required ratio of no more than 2.75 to 1.00. The senior credit facility defines the leverage ratio as that ratio which is calculated as total debt divided by pro forma earnings.

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Historical Cash Flows
     The following table summarizes our cash flows (in thousands):
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,  
    2010     2009  
Cash provided by (used in):
               
Operating activities
  $ 70,556     $ 51,198  
Investing activities
    (26,651 )     (28,615 )
Financing activities
    (10,942 )     (2,457 )
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
    53       (1 )
 
           
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
    33,016       20,125  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    145,181       88,959  
 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 178,197     $ 109,084  
 
           
  Cash Flows from Operating Activities
     Net cash provided by operating activities increased $19.4 million in the three months ended March 31, 2010 as compared to the prior year comparable period. This increase was primarily due to positive changes in working capital as compared to the comparable prior year period, in addition to decreases in cash paid for interest due to the expiration of our interest-rate swap agreements.
  Cash Flows from Investing Activities
     The table below presents the components of the changes in investing cash flows (in thousands):
                         
    Three Months Ended        
    March 31,        
    2010     2009     Variance  
Investing Cash Flows:
                       
Acquisition of independent animal hospitals and laboratories
  $ (8,528 )   $ (13,095 )   $ 4,567 (1)
Other
    (719 )     (1,372 )     653  
 
                 
Total cash used for acquisitions
    (9,247 )     (14,467 )     5,220  
Property and equipment additions
    (16,049 )     (12,886 )     (3,163 )(2)
Real estate acquired with acquisitions
    (1,300 )     (963 )     (337 )(3)
Proceeds from sale of assets
    6       74       (68 )
Other
    (61 )     (373 )     312  
 
                 
Net cash used in investing activities
  $ (26,651 )   $ (28,615 )   $ 1,964  
 
                 
 
(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 increase in cash used to acquire property and equipment was related to the maintenance and expansion of our existing animal hospitals and laboratory facilities.
 
(3)   Due to the lower return on investment realized on acquired real estate we are highly selective in our decision to acquire real estate. The increase in cash used to acquire real estate is due to an increase in the number of opportunities that met our selective criteria.

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Cash Flows from Financing Activities
     The table below presents the components of the changes in financing cash flows (in thousands):
                         
    Three Months Ended        
    March 31,        
    2010     2009     Variance  
Financing Cash Flows:
                       
Repayment of debt
  $ (10,822 )   $ (1,946 )   $ (8,876 )(1)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest partners
    (989 )     (888 )     (101 )(2)
Proceeds from stock options exercises
    2,858       557       2,301 (3)
Excess tax benefits from stock options
    264             264  
Stock repurchases
    (2,253 )     (180 )     (2,073 )(4)
 
                 
Net cash used in financing activities
  $ (10,942 )   $ (2,457 )   $ (8,485 )
 
                 
 
(1)   The cash used for repayment of debt increased $8.9 million due primarily to the payment of excess cash flows. See discussion above under Future Cash Flows.
 
(2)   The distributions to noncontrolling interest partners represent cash payments to noncontrolling interest partners for their portion of the partnerships’ excess cash.
 
(3)   The number of stock option exercises has increased in comparison to the prior year related to the increase in the market price of our stock during the three months ended March 31, 2010 and the expiration of certain stock options in the near term.
 
(4)   The stock repurchases for the three months ended March 2010 and March 31, 2009 represent cash paid for income taxes on behalf of employees who elected to settle their tax obligations on vested stocks with a portion of the stocks that vested.
Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements
     Other than operating leases, as of March 31, 2010 we do not have any off-balance-sheet financing arrangements.
Interest Rate Swap Agreements
     As of March 31, 2010, all of our interest rate swap agreements have expired.
     In the future, we may enter into additional interest rate strategies. However, we have not yet determined what those strategies will be or their possible impact.
Description of Indebtedness
  Senior Credit Facility
     At March 31, 2010, we had $506.8 million principal amount outstanding under our senior-term notes and no borrowings outstanding under our revolving credit facility.
     We pay interest on our senior-term notes based on the interest rate offered to our administrative agent on LIBOR plus a margin of 1.50% per annum. We pay interest on our revolving credit facility based upon Wells Fargo’s prime rate plus the margin of 0.50%.
     The senior-term notes mature in May 2011 and the revolving credit facility matures in May 2010. We are currently evaluating refinancing proposals from various lenders.
  Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
     At March 31, 2010, we had seller notes secured by assets of certain animal hospitals, unsecured debt and capital leases that totaled $27.5 million.

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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
     At March 31, 2010, we had borrowings of $506.8 million under our senior credit facility with fluctuating interest rates based on market benchmarks such as LIBOR. For our variable-rate debt, changes in interest rates generally do not affect the fair market value, but do impact earnings and cash flow. There has been no change in our assessment of the impact of changes on interest expense for fluctuation in LIBOR since the year ended December 31, 2009.
     In the future, we may enter into interest rate strategies to mitigate our exposure to increasing interest rates as well as to maintain an appropriate mix of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt. However, we have not yet determined what those strategies may be or their possible impact.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
     We carried out an evaluation required by the Exchange Act, under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal 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 principal executive officer and principal 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 principal executive officer and principal 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.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
     We are not subject to any legal proceedings other than ordinarily routine litigation incidental to the conduct of our business.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
     There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
     None
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
     None
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
     None

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
     
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.

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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 May 7, 2010.
         
     
Date: May 7, 2010  By:   /s/ Tomas W. Fuller    
    Tomas W. Fuller    
    Chief Financial Officer   

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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.

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