Counsel for the Veterinary Profession
Our Team of Legal and Business Advisors
Veterinary Business Advisors was formed over 20 years ago by veterinarian and lawyer, Charlotte Lacroix, DVM, JD, with the commitment to deliver a wide range of practical legal*, human resources, and practice management services to veterinarians and their advisors nationwide. Our goal is to support members of the veterinary industry as they navigate the complex web of risk management, business strategy, and the growth and development of their organization. As highly qualified professionals with a broad spectrum of experience, we provide the highest level of comprehensive business, human resources, and legal advice in the profession.
We understand each of our clients’ unique objectives and assist them in successfully meeting or exceeding their full potential. As a trusted advisor, VBA builds long-lasting relationships with our clients by integrating customized consulting services with personalized and responsive attention to detail. We focus on educating them on strategic, practical, and effective solutions to add maximum value to their business, while employing the highest level of dedication, collaboration, competence, and compassion.
VBA is committed to the success of the veterinary industry and strives to promote awareness of important legal and business concepts, and to be a catalyst for the delivery of superior care and service to patients and their owners alike.
*Legal services are provided through Dr. Lacroix’s law firm for practices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the two states where she is licensed to practice law.
Meet Our VBA Team Leaders
Charlotte Lacroix
Founder &
CEO
Kellie Olah
Practice Management & Human Resources Consultant
Jan Woods
Regulatory & Practice Operational Consultant
Kara Cobb
Paralegal &
Transaction Coordinator
Kellie Olah
Practice Management & Human Resources Consultant
Charlotte Lacroix
Founder &
CEO
Kara Cobb
Paralegal &
Transaction Coordinator
Jan Woods
Regulatory & Practice Operational Consultant
The VBA Team Can Serve You
Business strategist: We help you determine your options and negotiate from a position of knowledge and strength. With our real-world veterinary experience, we’ve walked a mile in your shoes, so we truly understand the nuances and challenges of running a successful practice.
Business coach: Once you’ve clarified your goals, we’ll be by your side—via in-person meetings, phone calls, and reporting—to ensure that you achieve them. It’s a level of accountability that helps turn your vision into reality.
Legal advocate: We always strive to find the best, most equitable way to resolve any legal issue you may face, keeping your interests top-of-mind. Equally important, we continually scan the horizon to head off any potential problems, firmly believing that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Human resources manager: Because your employees are your practice’s greatest asset, an effective HR function is integral to its success. From recruitment to employee management to compliance with today’s myriad employment laws, we make sure you do it right.
Risk manager: Veterinary professionals can face legal, regulatory, and business issues few doctors have the training to anticipate. We have the experience to identify potential risks in advance and take precautionary steps to reduce your exposure.
Teacher: Sometimes, you don’t know what you don’t know about a business opportunity, a set of circumstances, a contract, or running a successful veterinary practice. We’re here to teach you by sharing what we’ve learned, based on decades of experience helping practices grow and thrive.
Matchmaker: Sometimes you need specialized expertise—such as marketing or financial services—in addition to VBA’s capabilities. With an extensive network of trusted veterinary industry professionals, we can help you find the right match.
