What Every Veterinarian Should Know About Non-Compete Clauses

If you’re reviewing a new job offer as a veterinarian, chances are it contains a non-compete clause, also called a covenant not to compete. These clauses can seem like just another part of a long employment contract, but they deserve your close attention. They can significantly impact where and how you practice veterinary medicine in the future.

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What Is a Non-Compete Clause in a Veterinary Contract?

A non-compete restricts your ability to work in a certain geographic area or for a specific time frame after your employment ends. In veterinary contracts, they usually prohibit you from practicing within a set number of miles from the clinic, often for 1–2 years.

On the surface, non-competes aim to protect the employer’s investment in their client base. But overly broad restrictions can unfairly limit your career mobility, especially when they apply regardless of how your employment ends.

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Are Non-Compete Clauses Enforceable for Veterinarians?

The enforceability of non-compete clauses depends on state law, and the rules vary widely. In some states, like California, non-competes are generally not enforceable at all. Others, like Texas or Florida, allow them as long as the terms are considered reasonable in scope, geography, and duration.

For veterinarians, non-competes are often enforceable, especially in states without clear restrictions. That means if you sign one and later want to take a new job nearby, you could face the threat of an expensive lawsuit, even if you were let go unexpectedly.

So, it’s important to understand your obligations upfront and not assume a clause is unenforceable just because it feels overly broad or unfair.

Pro Tip: Never rely on a gut feeling about what’s enforceable. Talk to a veterinary contract attorney in your state before signing anything. It’s the best way to protect your future and avoid surprises down the road.

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Red Flags in Veterinary Non-Compete Agreements

Veterinary non-competes can be particularly aggressive—especially in contracts from large corporate consolidators. Watch out for these common red flags:

• Overly broad geographic scope: “15-mile radius” may seem small, but in urban or suburban areas, it can eliminate dozens of job options. Always map it out to see what clinics fall within the restricted zone.

• Excessively long durations: Anything over 12–18 months should raise concerns. Shorter durations are often more reasonable.

• Corporate-wide enforcement: Some contracts apply the non-compete to all locations owned by a veterinary corporation, not just the clinic where you work.

• Vague or overly broad language: Terms like “related services” or “competing business” can restrict you from doing relief work, telemedicine, or volunteering at shelters.

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How to Negotiate a Veterinarian Non-Compete Clause

Most veterinarians don’t realize that non-compete clauses are negotiable. You have the right to push back, especially before signing.

Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Narrow the scope: Limit the clause to the specific clinic, not the entire corporate network.

• Reduce the radius: In cities, even a 10-15 mile radius can cover a huge area. Try to negotiate a smaller, more practical range.

• Shorten the time period: Aim for 6 to 12 months, which still protects the clinic’s interests without limiting your career too long.

• Add carve-outs: Exclude relief work, emergency shifts, shelter volunteering, or work in a different specialty. If you're a specialist, limit the restriction to your specific discipline.

• Limit enforceability to ‘for cause’ terminations: If you’re let go without cause; due to downsizing, clinic sale, or other business reasons, you shouldn’t be penalized. Push for a clause that only enforces the non-compete if you’re terminated for cause (e.g., misconduct, fraud, or serious policy violations).

Negotiating these terms before you sign can make a major difference in your future flexibility.