Vca 10-Q 7 Nov 16 2016 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Nov. 01, 2016
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	VCA INC
Entity Central Index Key	817,366
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2016
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		81,138,143

Condensed, Consolidated Balance

Condensed, Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 72,914	$ 98,888
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for uncollectible accounts of $22,569 and $21,775 at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	82,166	76,634
Inventory	60,811	51,523
Prepaid expenses and other	33,905	30,521
Prepaid income taxes	0	24,598
Total current assets	249,796	282,164
Property and equipment, net	582,840	507,753
Goodwill	2,063,494	1,517,650
Other intangible assets, net	209,095	97,377
Notes receivable	2,142	2,194
Other	101,695	93,994
Total assets	3,209,062	2,501,132
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	32,512	33,623
Accounts payable	54,150	52,337
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	70,213	75,519
Income tax payable	8,359	0
Other accrued liabilities	85,607	70,828
Total current liabilities	250,841	232,307
Long-term debt, net	1,246,122	832,718
Deferred income taxes, net	127,104	131,478
Other liabilities	39,509	36,084
Total liabilities	1,663,576	1,232,587
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	12,079	11,511
Preferred stock, par value $0.001, 11,000 shares authorized, none outstanding	0	0
VCA Inc. stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, par value $0.001, 175,000 shares authorized, 81,075 and 80,764 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	81	81
Additional paid-in capital	32,958	19,708
Retained earnings	1,443,715	1,275,207
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(41,028)	(50,034)
Total VCA Inc. stockholders’ equity	1,435,726	1,244,962
Noncontrolling interests	97,681	12,072
Total equity	1,533,407	1,257,034
Total liabilities and equity	$ 3,209,062	$ 2,501,132

Condensed, Consolidated Balanc3

Condensed, Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Allowance for uncollectible accounts	$ 22,569	$ 21,775
Liabilities and Equity
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized	11,000,000	11,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
VCA Inc. stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	175,000,000	175,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	81,075,000	80,764,000

Condensed, Consolidated Stateme

Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue		$ 656,854	$ 551,717	$ 1,873,782	$ 1,599,955
Direct costs		500,277	414,051	1,416,477	1,207,580
Gross profit		156,577	137,666	457,305	392,375
Selling, general and administrative expense		49,343	44,860	147,661	133,743
Business interruption insurance gain		0	(4,523)	0	(4,523)
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets		236	250	528	(234)
Operating income (loss)		106,998	97,079	309,116	263,389
Interest expense, net		9,300	5,455	24,262	15,396
Debt retirement costs		0	0	1,600	0
Other (income) expense		(121)	59	(985)	88
Income before provision for income taxes		97,819	91,565	284,239	247,905
Provision for income taxes		37,040	35,097	109,312	95,961
Net income	[1]	60,779	56,468	174,927	151,944
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		2,548	1,614	6,419	4,490
Net income attributable to VCA Inc.		$ 58,231	$ 54,854	$ 168,508	$ 147,454
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.72	$ 0.68	$ 2.08	$ 1.80
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.71	$ 0.67	$ 2.06	$ 1.78
Weighted-average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share (in shares)		80,924	80,815	80,845	81,700
Weighted-average shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share (in shares)		81,812	81,795	81,695	82,744
[1]	Includes approximately $3.1 million and $2.5 million of net income related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Condensed, Consolidated Statem5

Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	[1]	$ 60,779	$ 56,468	$ 174,927	$ 151,944
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(3,389)	(14,005)	9,241	(25,274)
Other comprehensive (loss) income		(3,389)	(14,005)	9,241	(25,274)
Total comprehensive income		57,390	42,463	184,168	126,670
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	[1]	2,360	1,187	6,654	3,728
Comprehensive income attributable to VCA Inc.		$ 55,030	$ 41,276	$ 177,514	$ 122,942
[1]	Includes approximately $3.1 million and $2.5 million of net income related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Condensed, Consolidated Statem6

Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 3.1	$ 2.5

Condensed, Consolidated Statem7

Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Equity (Unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Noncontrolling Interests
Beginning Balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		82,937
Beginning Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 1,211,621	$ 83	$ 155,802	$ 1,064,158	$ (19,397)	$ 10,975
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (excludes $1392 and $1088 during the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and $1,852 and $1,220 during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests, respectively)	149,464			147,454		2,010
Other comprehensive income (excludes $338 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and $117 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 related to mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests)	(24,936)				(24,512)	(424)
Formation of noncontrolling interests	2,661					2,661
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(1,784)					(1,784)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	(690)		(217)			(473)
Share-based compensation	12,086		12,086
Issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans, shares		633
Issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans	1,571	$ 1	1,570
Stock repurchases, shares		(3,003)
Stock repurchases	(161,117)	$ (3)	(161,114)
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation	8,008		8,008
Ending Balances, shares at Sep. 30, 2015		80,567
Ending Balances at Sep. 30, 2015	$ 1,196,884	$ 81	16,135	1,211,612	(43,909)	12,965
Beginning Balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2015	80,764	80,764
Beginning Balances at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 1,257,034	$ 81	19,708	1,275,207	(50,034)	12,072
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (excludes $1392 and $1088 during the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and $1,852 and $1,220 during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests, respectively)	171,855			168,508		3,347
Other comprehensive income (excludes $338 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and $117 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 related to mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests)	9,124				9,006	118
Formation of noncontrolling interests	86,951					86,951
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(2,667)					(2,667)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	(4,141)		(2,075)			(2,066)
Share-based compensation	13,669		13,669
Issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans, shares		458
Issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans	3,949		3,949
Stock repurchases, shares		(147)
Stock repurchases	(9,887)		(9,887)
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation	7,588		7,588
Other	$ (68)		6			(74)
Ending Balances, shares at Sep. 30, 2016	81,075	81,075
Ending Balances at Sep. 30, 2016	$ 1,533,407	$ 81	$ 32,958	$ 1,443,715	$ (41,028)	$ 97,681

Condensed, Consolidated Statem8

Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Equity (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 1,852	$ 1,392
Mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest	1,220	1,088
Other comprehensive income (loss) related to mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 117	$ (338)

Condensed, Consolidated Statem9

Condensed, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	[1]	$ 174,927	$ 151,944
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		74,072	60,634
Amortization of debt issue costs		1,247	1,306
Provision for uncollectible accounts		4,949	6,723
Debt retirement costs		1,600	0
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets		528	(234)
Share-based compensation		13,669	12,086
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation		(7,588)	(8,008)
Other		7,668	(431)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Trade accounts receivable		(8,033)	(20,568)
Inventory, prepaid expenses and other assets		(11,684)	(931)
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities		11,142	(2,451)
Accrued payroll and related liabilities		(7,783)	18,892
Income taxes		36,168	28,054
Net cash provided by operating activities		290,882	247,016
Cash flows from investing activities:
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired		(599,655)	(119,336)
Property and equipment additions		(90,546)	(61,470)
Proceeds from sale or disposal of assets		1,699	6,469
Other		(7,634)	(434)
Net cash used in investing activities		(696,136)	(174,771)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of long-term obligations		(1,263,394)	(20,174)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term obligations		1,255,000	0
Proceeds from revolving credit facility		465,000	97,000
Repayment of revolving credit facility		(65,000)	0
Payment of financing costs		(3,817)	0
Distributions to noncontrolling interests		(4,752)	(3,810)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests		(4,239)	(1,493)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock under stock incentive plans		3,949	1,571
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation		7,588	8,008
Stock repurchases		(9,887)	(161,117)
Other		(1,310)	2,210
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		379,138	(77,805)
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		142	(831)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(25,974)	(6,391)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		98,888	81,383
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period		72,914	74,992
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Interest paid		17,847	13,674
Income taxes paid		$ 68,748	$ 67,814
[1]	Includes approximately $3.1 million and $2.5 million of net income related to redeemable and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Nature of Operations

Nature of Operations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Nature of Operations	Nature of Operations Our company, VCA Inc. (“VCA”) is a Delaware corporation formed in 1986 and is based in Los Angeles, California. We are an animal healthcare company with the following four operating segments: animal hospitals ("Animal Hospital"), veterinary diagnostic laboratories ("Laboratory"), veterinary medical technology ("Medical Technology"), and Camp Bow Wow Franchising, Inc. (f/k/a D.O.G. Enterprises, LLC ("Camp Bow Wow"). Our operating segments are aggregated into two reportable segments: Animal Hospital and Laboratory. Our Medical Technology and Camp Bow Wow operating segments are combined in our All Other category. See Note 10 , Lines of Business within these notes to unaudited condensed, consolidated financial statements. Our Animal Hospitals offer a full range of general medical and surgical services for companion animals. Our Animal Hospitals treat diseases and injuries, provide pharmaceutical products and perform a variety of pet-wellness programs, including health examinations, diagnostic testing, vaccinations, spaying, neutering and dental care. At September 30, 2016 , we operated or managed 776 animal hospitals throughout 43 states and five Canadian provinces. We operate a full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory network serving all 50 states and certain areas in Canada. Our Laboratory network provides sophisticated testing and consulting services used by veterinarians in the detection, diagnosis, evaluation, monitoring, treatment and prevention of diseases and other conditions affecting animals. At September 30, 2016 , we operated 60 laboratories of various sizes located strategically throughout the United States and Canada. Our Medical Technology business sells digital radiography and ultrasound imaging equipment, provides education and training on the use of that equipment, provides consulting and mobile imaging services, and sells software and ancillary services to the veterinary market. Our Camp Bow Wow business franchises a premier provider of pet services including dog day care, overnight boarding, grooming and other ancillary services at specially designed pet care facilities, principally under the trademark Camp Bow Wow ® . As of September 30, 2016 , there were 128 Camp Bow Wow franchise locations operating in 34 states and one Canadian province. On December 31, 2015, our company sold substantially all of the assets of Vetstreet Inc. ("Vetstreet") to a subsidiary of Henry Schein, Inc.. Concurrent with the sale of Vetstreet, we purchased a 19.9% interest in the continuing Vetstreet business. Prior to the sale of Vetstreet, its results of operations were included in our "All Other" category. On May 1, 2016 , we acquired an 80% ownership interest in Companion Animal Practices, North America ("CAPNA"). CAPNA, founded in 2010 , and at the time of acquisition, operated a network of 56 free standing animal hospitals in 18 states. CAPNA's results of operations are included in our Animal Hospital segment. The practice of veterinary medicine is subject to seasonal fluctuation. In particular, demand for veterinary services is significantly higher during the warmer months because pets spend a greater amount of time outdoors where they are more likely to be injured and are more susceptible to disease and parasites. In addition, use of veterinary services may be affected by levels of flea infestation, heartworms and ticks, and the number of daylight hours.

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation Our accompanying unaudited, condensed, consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and in accordance with the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the disclosures required by GAAP for annual financial statements as permitted under applicable rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, all normal recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2016 . The year end condensed balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP. For further information, refer to our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. 2. Basis of Presentation, continued 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.

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived A

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets	Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets Goodwill The following table presents the changes in the carrying amount of our goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 (in thousands): Animal Hospital Laboratory All Other Total Balance as of December 31, 2015 Goodwill $ 1,402,106 $ 101,269 $ 144,332 $ 1,647,707 Accumulated impairment losses — — (130,057 ) (130,057 ) Subtotal 1,402,106 101,269 14,275 1,517,650 Goodwill acquired 536,060 — 941 537,001 Foreign translation adjustment 6,657 24 — 6,681 Other (1) 2,162 — — 2,162 Balance as of September 30, 2016 Goodwill 1,946,985 101,293 145,273 2,193,551 Accumulated impairment losses — — (130,057 ) (130,057 ) Subtotal $ 1,946,985 $ 101,293 $ 15,216 $ 2,063,494 ____________________________ (1) "Other" consists primarily of measurement period adjustments. Other Intangible Assets Our acquisition related amortizable intangible assets at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): As of September 30, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Non-contractual customer relationships $ 214,050 $ (61,153 ) $ 152,897 $ 116,082 $ (48,821 ) $ 67,261 Covenants not-to-compete 22,613 (6,997 ) 15,616 12,435 (4,779 ) 7,656 Favorable lease assets 9,457 (5,751 ) 3,706 9,441 (5,440 ) 4,001 Technology 1,377 (748 ) 629 1,377 (589 ) 788 Trademarks 29,525 (6,604 ) 22,921 10,551 (4,086 ) 6,465 Franchise rights 11,730 (2,444 ) 9,286 11,730 (1,564 ) 10,166 Total $ 288,752 $ (83,697 ) $ 205,055 $ 161,616 $ (65,279 ) $ 96,337 3. Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets, continued The following table summarizes our aggregate amortization expense related to acquisition related intangible assets (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 2016 2015 Aggregate amortization expense $ 10,682 $ 5,811 $ 26,709 $ 17,195 The estimated amortization expense related to acquisition related intangible assets for the remainder of 2016 and each of the succeeding years thereafter, as of September 30, 2016 , is as follows (in thousands): Finite-lived intangible assets: Remainder of 2016 $ 11,109 2017 40,011 2018 36,554 2019 33,544 2020 28,711 Thereafter 55,126 Total $ 205,055 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 4,040 Total intangible assets $ 209,095

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions The table below reflects the activity related to the acquisitions and dispositions of our animal hospitals and laboratories during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively: Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 Animal Hospitals: Acquisitions 105 42 Acquisitions, merged (3 ) (4 ) Sold, closed or merged (8 ) (7 ) Net increase 94 31 Laboratories: Acquisitions — 1 Acquisitions, merged — (1 ) Net increase — — 4. Acquisitions, continued Animal Hospital and Laboratory Acquisitions The purchase price allocations for some of the 2016 animal hospital acquisitions included in the table below are preliminary; however, adjustments, if any, are not expected to be material. The measurement periods for purchase price allocations do not exceed 12 months from the acquisition date. The following table summarizes the aggregate consideration for our independent animal hospitals and labs acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, (in thousands): Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 Consideration: Cash $ 247,733 $ 116,428 Cash acquired (876 ) (67 ) Cash, net of cash acquired $ 246,857 $ 116,361 Assumed debt 2,860 12,402 Holdbacks 6,972 4,497 Earn-outs 4,155 476 Fair value of total consideration transferred $ 260,844 $ 133,736 Allocation of the Purchase Price: Tangible assets $ 24,761 $ 10,060 Identifiable intangible assets (1) 32,016 34,130 Goodwill (2) 205,394 93,645 Other liabilities assumed (376 ) (1,424 ) Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed $ 261,795 $ 136,411 Noncontrolling interest (951 ) (2,675 ) Total $ 260,844 $ 133,736 ____________________________ (1) Identifiable intangible assets include customer relationships, trademarks and covenants-not-to-compete. The weighted-average amortization period for the total identifiable intangible assets is approximately five years. The weighted-average amortization period for customer relationships, trademarks and covenants is approximately five years, six years and five years, respectively. (2) We expect that $199.1 million and $73.5 million of the goodwill recorded for these acquisitions, as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, will be fully deductible for income tax purposes. Included in the table above is Antech Diagnostics, Inc.'s March 31, 2015 acquisition of Abaxis Veterinary Reference Laboratory ("AVRL") for total consideration of $21.0 million . 4. Acquisitions, continued CAPNA Acquisition On May 1, 2016 , we acquired an 80% ownership interest in CAPNA for a purchase price of $ 350.4 million. CAPNA, founded in 2010 , and at the time of its acquisition, operated a network of 56 free standing animal hospitals in 18 states. The following table summarizes the purchase price and the preliminary allocation of the purchase price (in thousands): Consideration: Cash $ 352,829 Cash acquired (3,405 ) Cash, net of cash acquired $ 349,424 Holdbacks 1,000 Fair value of total consideration transferred $ 350,424 Allocation of the Purchase Price: Tangible assets $ 21,118 Identifiable intangible assets (1) 102,300 Goodwill (2) 330,668 Other liabilities assumed (17,662 ) Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed $ 436,424 Noncontrolling interest (86,000 ) Total $ 350,424 ____________________________ (1) Identifiable intangible assets primarily include customer relationships, trademarks and covenants-not-to-compete. The weighted-average amortization period for the total identifiable intangible assets is approximately seven years. The amortization periods for customer relationships, trademarks and covenants is seven years, five years and five years, respectively. (2) As of September 30, 2016, we expect that $265.8 million of goodwill recorded for this acquisition will be deductible for income tax purposes. The purchase price allocation for CAPNA is preliminary and is pending the valuation of certain items including, but not limited to, capital leases, operating leases, deferred income taxes and the noncontrolling interest. The final valuation of the net assets acquired, liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interest is expected to be completed as soon as practicable, but no later than one year from the date of acquisition. During the three months ended September 30, 2016, significant measurement period adjustments included the finalization of the valuation of intangible assets, the recording of the preliminary deferred income tax adjustment, as well as the true-up of the noncontrolling interest. Pro Forma Information The following pro forma financial information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 presents (i) the actual results of operations of our 2016 acquisitions and (ii) the combined results of operations for our company and our 2016 acquisitions as if those acquisitions had been completed on July 1, 2015 and January 1, 2015 , the first day of the comparable prior reporting periods, respectively. The pro forma financial information considers principally (i) our company’s financial results, (ii) the historical financial results of our acquisitions, and (iii) select pro forma adjustments to the historical 4. Acquisitions, continued financial results of our acquisitions. Such pro forma adjustments represent principally estimates of (i) the impact of the hypothetical amortization of acquired intangible assets, (ii) the recognition of fair value adjustments relating to tangible assets, (iii) adjustments reflecting the new capital structure, including additional financing or repayments of debt as part of the acquisitions and (iv) the tax effects of the acquisitions and related adjustments as if those acquisitions had been completed on July 1, 2015 and January 1, 2015 . The pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of what our consolidated results of operations would have been had we completed the acquisition at the beginning of the comparable prior reporting periods. In addition, the pro forma financial information does not attempt to project the future results of operations of our company: Revenue Net Income (In thousands): Results of acquired businesses included in our three months ended September 30, 2016 actuals $ 64,517 $ 4,661 2016 supplemental pro forma from July 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016 (1) $ 662,840 $ 58,922 2015 supplemental pro forma from July 1, 2015 to September 30, 2015 (1) $ 623,568 $ 59,070 Results of acquired businesses included in our nine months ended September 30, 2016 actuals $ 128,710 $ 9,523 2016 supplemental pro forma from January 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016 (2) $ 1,947,799 $ 172,866 2015 supplemental pro forma from January 1, 2015 to September 30, 2015 (2) $ 1,844,007 $ 154,880 ____________________________ (1) 2016 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to exclude $0.1 million of acquisition-related costs incurred during the three months ended September 30, 2016 . 2015 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to include these charges. (2) 2016 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to exclude $1.3 million of acquisition-related costs incurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 . 2015 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to include these charges.

Other Accrued Liabilities

Other Accrued Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Other Accrued Liabilities	Other Accrued Liabilities Other accrued liabilities consisted of the following at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands): September 30, 2016 December 31, 2015 Deferred revenue $ 18,647 $ 14,647 Holdbacks and earn-outs 14,042 9,959 Accrued workers' compensation 7,329 3,212 Accrued other insurance 5,988 5,013 Accrued health insurance 5,702 4,952 Deferred rent 5,469 4,791 Miscellaneous accrued taxes (1) 4,867 3,317 Accrued accounting and legal fees 3,143 2,697 Customer deposits 2,393 2,971 Accrued lease payments 2,111 1,536 Other 15,916 17,733 $ 85,607 $ 70,828 ____________________________ (1) Includes property, sales and use taxes.

Long-Term Obligations

Long-Term Obligations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Obligations	Long-Term Obligations New Senior Credit Facility On June 29, 2016 , we entered into a new senior credit facility with various lenders for approximately $1.7 billion of senior secured credit facilities with Bank of America, N.A., as the administrative agent, swingline lender and Letter of Credit issuer, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Barclays Bank PLC, Suntrust Bank, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. as co-syndication agents (the "New Senior Credit Facility"). The New Senior Credit Facility replaced our previous senior credit facility which provided for $600 million of term notes and an $800 million revolving credit facility. The New Senior Credit Facility provides for $880 million of senior secured term notes and an $800 million senior secured revolving facility, which may be used to borrow, on a same-day notice under a swing line, the lesser of $25 million and the aggregate unused amount of the revolving credit facility then in effect. In addition to refinancing all outstanding amounts under our previous senior credit facility, borrowings under our New Senior Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purchases, including permitted share repurchases. At June 30, 2016 , we had $375 million in outstanding borrowings under the new senior secured revolving facility, which funds were used together with the proceeds from the $880 million of new senior secured term notes to refinance amounts outstanding under our previous senior credit facility. In connection with the New Senior Credit Facility, we incurred $3.8 million in financing costs, of which approximately $3.2 million were capitalized as deferred financing costs. The remaining $0.6 million of financing costs were expensed as debt retirement costs, along with an additional $1.0 million of previously capitalized deferred financing costs associated with lenders under our previous senior credit facility who are not lenders under our New Senior Credit Facility. During the current fiscal year, ASU 2015-03 and ASU 2015-15 were adopted. In accordance with ASU 2015-03, the table below presents debt issuance costs as a direct deduction from the face amount of the corresponding notes in the current period and retrospectively in the prior fiscal year end. 6. Long-Term Obligations, continued Long-term obligations consisted of the following at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands): September 30, 2016 December 31, 2015 Senior term notes Principal amount $ 874,500 $ 585,000 Less unamortized debt issuance costs (2,781 ) (2,408 ) Senior term notes less unamortized debt issuance costs, secured by assets, variable interest rate (2.27% and 1.92% at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) (1) $ 871,719 $ 582,592 Revolving credit Principal amount $ 340,000 $ 232,000 Less unamortized debt issuance costs (4,321 ) (3,725 ) Revolving line of credit less unamortized debt issuance costs, secured by assets, variable interest rate (2.31% and 1.92% at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) (1) $ 335,679 $ 228,275 Secured seller note Notes payable matures in 2016, secured by assets and stock of certain subsidiaries, with interest rate of 10.0% 230 230 Total debt obligations 1,207,628 811,097 Capital lease obligations and other debt 71,006 55,244 1,278,634 866,341 Less — current portion (32,512 ) (33,623 ) $ 1,246,122 $ 832,718 ____________________________ (1) Notes payable and the revolving line of credit at September 30, 2016 mature in 2021 under the New Senior Credit Facility. Notes payable and the revolving line of credit at December 31, 2015 were due to mature in 2019 under the previous senior credit facility dated August 27, 2014. Interest Rate. In general, borrowings under the New Senior Credit Facility (including swing line borrowings) bear interest, at our option, on either: • the base rate (as defined below) plus the applicable margin of 0.75% (Pricing Tier 2, see table below) per annum; or • the Eurodollar rate (as defined below), plus a margin of 1.75% (Pricing Tier 2, see table below) per annum Each of the aforementioned margins remain applicable until the date of delivery of the compliance certificate and the financial statements, for the period ended September 30, 2016 , at which time the applicable margin will be determined by reference to the leverage ratio in effect from time to time as set forth in the following table: 6. Long-Term Obligations, continued Pricing Tier Consolidated Leverage Ratio Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans Commitment Fee 1 ≥ 3.50:1.00 2.00 % 1.00 % 0.40 % 2 < 3.50:1.00 and ≥ 2.75:1.00 1.75 % 0.75 % 0.35 % 3 < 2.75:1.00 and ≥ 1.75:1.00 1.50 % 0.50 % 0.30 % 4 < 1.75:1.00 and ≥ 1.00:1.00 1.25 % 0.25 % 0.25 % 5 < 1.00:1.00 1.00 % — % 0.25 % The base rate for the senior term notes is a rate per annum equal to the highest of the (a) Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, (b) Bank of America, N.A.'s ("Bank of America") prime rate in effect on such day, and (c) the Eurodollar rate plus 1.0%. The Eurodollar rate is defined as the rate per annum equal to the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"), or a comparable or successor rate which is approved by Bank of America. Maturity and Principal Payments. The senior term notes mature on June 29, 2021 . Principal payments on the senior term notes of $5.5 million are due each calendar quarter from September 30, 2016 to and including June 30, 2017 , $11.0 million are due each calendar quarter from September 30, 2017 to and including June 30, 2019 , $16.5 million are due each calendar quarter from September 30, 2019 to and including June 30, 2020 and $22.0 million are due each calendar quarter thereafter with a final payment of the outstanding principal balance due upon maturity. The revolving credit facility has a per annum commitment fee determined by reference to the Leverage Ratio in effect from time to time and is applied to the unused portion of the commitment. The revolving credit facility matures on June 29, 2021 . Principal payments on the revolving credit facility are made at our discretion with the entire unpaid amount due at maturity. At September 30, 2016 , we had borrowings of $340.0 million under our revolving credit facility. The following table sets forth the scheduled principal payments for our senior credit facility (in thousands): 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter Senior term notes $ 5,500 $ 33,000 $ 44,000 $ 55,000 $ 77,000 $ 660,000 Revolving loans — — — — — 340,000 $ 5,500 $ 33,000 $ 44,000 $ 55,000 $ 77,000 $ 1,000,000 Guarantees and Security. We and each of our wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries guarantee the outstanding indebtedness under the New Senior Credit Facility. Any borrowings, along with the guarantees of the domestic subsidiaries, are further secured by a pledge of substantially all of our consolidated assets, including 65% of the voting equity and 100% of the non-voting equity interest in each of our foreign subsidiaries. Debt Covenants. The New Senior Credit Facility contains certain financial covenants pertaining to interest coverage and leverage ratios. In addition, the New Senior Credit Facility has restrictions pertaining to the payment of cash dividends on all classes of stock. At September 30, 2016 , we had a interest coverage ratio of 16.88 to 1.00, which was in compliance with the required ratio of no less than 3.00 to 1.00, and a leverage ratio of 2.58 to 1.00, which was in compliance with the required ratio of no more than 4.00 to 1.00.

Fair Value

Fair Value	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value	7. Fair Value 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: 7. Fair Value, continued • 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. Non-Recurring Financial Measurements Non-financial assets such as property, plant and equipment, land, goodwill and intangible assets are subject to non-recurring fair value measurements if they are deemed to be impaired. The impairment models used for nonfinancial assets depend on the type of asset and are accounted for in accordance with FASB’s guidance on fair value measurement. During the quarter ended September 30, 2016 , there were no changes to our non-recurring fair value measurements. 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 consolidated balance sheets. Fair value as defined by the guidance is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value estimates of financial instruments are not necessarily indicative of the amounts we might pay or receive in actual market transactions. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. Cash and Cash Equivalents. These balances include cash and cash equivalents with maturities of less than three months. The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. Receivables, Less Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Accounts Payable and Certain Other Accrued Liabilities. Due to their short-term nature, fair value approximates carrying value. Long-Term Debt. The fair value of debt at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is based upon the ask price quoted from an external source, which is considered a Level 2 input. The following table reflects the carrying value and fair value of our variable-rate long-term debt (in thousands): As of September 30, As of December 31, 2016 2015 Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Variable-rate long-term debt $ 1,214,500 $ 1,214,500 $ 817,000 $ 817,000

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation Stock Option Activity There were no stock options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 . The aggregate intrinsic value of our stock options exercised during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 was $8.0 million and $11.2 million , respectively, and the actual tax benefit realized on options exercised during these periods was $3.1 million and $4.4 million , respectively. 8. Share-Based Compensation, continued As of September 30, 2016 we have fully recognized compensation cost for our outstanding options. The compensation cost charged against income, for stock options for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , was $100,000 and $376,000 , respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized was $39,000 and $147,000 , for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The compensation cost charged against income, for stock options for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , was $415,000 and $1.1 million , respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized was $162,000 and $436,000 , for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Nonvested Stock Activity During the nine months ended September 30, 2016 , we granted 122,733 shares of nonvested common stock to our directors and our non-executive employees. In April 2016 we granted 4,992 of these shares to our directors. Assuming continued service through each vesting date, the awards granted to our directors will vest in three equal annual installments beginning April 2017 to April 2019. In September 2016, we granted 117,741 shares to our non-executive employees. Assuming continued service through each vesting date, the awards granted to our non-executive employees will vest in four equal annual installments beginning September 2017 to September 2020. Total compensation cost charged against income related to nonvested stock awards was $1.5 million and $1.2 million , for three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized in the income statement was $577,000 and $454,000 , for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Total compensation cost charged against income related to nonvested stock awards was $4.6 million and $4.2 million , for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized in the income statement was $1.8 million and $1.6 million , for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. At September 30, 2016 , there was $19.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to these nonvested shares, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.1 years. A summary of our nonvested stock activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 is as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Shares Grant Date Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share Outstanding at December 31, 2015 417 $ 38.28 Granted 123 $ 68.49 Vested (18 ) $ 27.58 Forfeited/Canceled (5 ) $ 39.05 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 517 $ 45.83 Restricted Stock Unit Activity During the nine months ended September 30, 2016 , we granted 228,202 performance based restricted stock units ("RSUs") to our executive and non executive officers representing the right to receive one share of common stock. These RSUs will be earned upon the achievement of applicable performance criteria during the performance periods, from fiscal period 2016 to 2019, as set forth in the 2016 equity performance award agreements. Assuming achievement of the required performance conditions and continued service through each vesting date, these awards will further vest in four equal annual installments on the later to occur of the certification of the applicable results or the annual anniversary of the grant date. 8. Share-Based Compensation, continued Total compensation cost charged against income related to RSU awards was $3.0 million and $2.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized in the income statement was $1.2 million and $892,000 , for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Total compensation cost charged against income related to RSU awards was $8.6 million and $6.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The corresponding income tax benefit recognized in the income statement was $3.4 million and $2.7 million , for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. At September 30, 2016 , there was $20.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to these RSUs, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.5 years. A summary of our restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 is as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Shares Grant Date Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share Outstanding at December 31, 2015 747 $ 37.91 Granted 228 $ 56.01 Paid Out (216 ) $ 25.81 Forfeited/Canceled (1 ) $ 21.04 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 758 $ 46.82

Calculation of Earnings per Sha

Calculation of Earnings per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Calculation of Earnings per Share	Calculation of Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to VCA Inc. by the weighted- average number of common shares outstanding, after giving effect to all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period. Basic and diluted earnings per share were calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 2016 2015 Net income attributable to VCA Inc. $ 58,231 $ 54,854 $ 168,508 $ 147,454 Weighted-average common shares outstanding: Basic 80,924 80,815 80,845 81,700 Effect of dilutive potential common shares: Stock options 270 338 287 338 Non-vested shares and units 618 642 563 706 Diluted 81,812 81,795 81,695 82,744 Basic earnings per common share $ 0.72 $ 0.68 $ 2.08 $ 1.80 Diluted earnings per common share $ 0.71 $ 0.67 $ 2.06 $ 1.78 9. Calculation of Earnings per Share, continued For the three months ended September 30, 2016 , there were 10,256 potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have had an antidilutive effect. There were no potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended September 30, 2015 . For the nine months ended September 30, 2016 , there were 18,739 potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have had an antidilutive effect. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015 , there were 24,735 potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have had an antidilutive effect.

Lines of Business

Lines of Business	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Lines of Business	Lines of Business Our Animal Hospital and Laboratory business segments are each considered reportable segments in accordance with the FASB's guidance related to Segment Reporting. Our Animal Hospital segment provides veterinary services for companion animals and sells related retail and pharmaceutical products. Our Laboratory segment provides diagnostic laboratory testing services for veterinarians, both associated with our animal hospitals and those independent of us. Our other operating segments included in the “All Other” category in the following tables are our Medical Technology business, which sells digital radiography and ultrasound imaging equipment, related computer hardware, software and ancillary services to the veterinary market, and our Camp Bow Wow business, which primarily franchises a premier provider of pet services including dog day care, overnight boarding, grooming and other ancillary services at specially designed pet care facilities. These operating segments do not meet the quantitative requirements for reportable segments. Our operating segments are strategic business units that have different services, products and/or functions. The segments are managed separately because each is a distinct and different business venture with unique challenges, risks and rewards. We also operate a corporate office that provides general and administrative support services for each of our segments. The accounting policies of our segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. We evaluate the performance of our segments based on gross profit and operating income. For purposes of reviewing the operating performance of our segments, all intercompany sales and purchases are generally accounted for as if they were transactions with independent third parties at current market prices. 10. Lines of Business, continued The following is a summary of certain financial data for each of our segments (in thousands): Animal Hospital Laboratory All Other Corporate Eliminations Total Three Months Ended External revenue $ 553,378 $ 84,970 $ 17,450 $ — $ 1,056 $ 656,854 Intercompany revenue — 20,170 5,537 — (25,707 ) — Total revenue 553,378 105,140 22,987 — (24,651 ) 656,854 Direct costs 459,242 50,934 14,066 — (23,965 ) 500,277 Gross profit 94,136 54,206 8,921 — (686 ) 156,577 Selling, general and administrative expense 15,541 9,728 6,064 18,010 — 49,343 Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets 78,595 44,478 2,857 (18,010 ) (686 ) 107,234 Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets 304 1 1 (70 ) — 236 Operating income (loss) $ 78,291 $ 44,477 $ 2,856 $ (17,940 ) $ (686 ) $ 106,998 Depreciation and amortization $ 23,363 $ 2,826 $ 848 $ 679 $ (622 ) $ 27,094 Property and equipment additions $ 24,917 $ 4,953 $ 383 $ 2,794 $ (1,315 ) $ 31,732 Three Months Ended External revenue $ 441,924 $ 84,129 $ 24,544 $ — $ 1,120 $ 551,717 Intercompany revenue — 16,180 6,294 — (22,474 ) — Total revenue 441,924 100,309 30,838 — (21,354 ) 551,717 Direct costs 366,983 48,901 19,077 — (20,910 ) 414,051 Gross profit 74,941 51,408 11,761 — (444 ) 137,666 Selling, general and administrative expense 10,677 9,542 7,660 16,981 — 44,860 Operating income (loss) before charges 64,264 41,866 4,101 (16,981 ) (444 ) 92,806 Business interruption insurance gain — — (4,523 ) — — (4,523 ) Net loss on sale or disposal of assets 175 — 72 3 — 250 Operating income (loss) $ 64,089 $ 41,866 $ 8,552 $ (16,984 ) $ (444 ) $ 97,079 Depreciation and amortization $ 16,520 $ 2,731 $ 1,181 $ 588 $ (549 ) $ 20,471 Property and equipment additions $ 19,429 $ 5,735 $ 127 $ 2,773 $ (1,115 ) $ 26,949 10. Lines of Business, continued Animal Hospital Laboratory All Other Corporate Eliminations Total Nine Months Ended External revenue $ 1,552,377 $ 267,475 $ 50,560 $ — $ 3,370 $ 1,873,782 Intercompany revenue — 56,452 15,237 — (71,689 ) — Total revenue 1,552,377 323,927 65,797 — (68,319 ) 1,873,782 Direct costs 1,290,145 152,458 41,049 — (67,175 ) 1,416,477 Gross profit 262,232 171,469 24,748 — (1,144 ) 457,305 Selling, general and administrative expense 41,903 29,726 17,385 58,647 — 147,661 Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets 220,329 141,743 7,363 (58,647 ) (1,144 ) 309,644 Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets 747 (34 ) 4 (189 ) — 528 Operating income (loss) $ 219,582 $ 141,777 $ 7,359 $ (58,458 ) $ (1,144 ) $ 309,116 Depreciation and amortization $ 62,811 $ 8,446 $ 2,635 $ 1,985 $ (1,805 ) $ 74,072 Property and equipment additions $ 68,947 $ 14,355 $ 2,475 $ 7,981 $ (3,212 ) $ 90,546 Nine Months Ended External revenue $ 1,270,326 $ 252,645 $ 73,895 $ — $ 3,089 $ 1,599,955 Intercompany revenue — 47,858 19,839 — (67,697 ) — Total revenue 1,270,326 300,503 93,734 — (64,608 ) 1,599,955 Direct costs 1,066,516 144,410 59,160 — (62,506 ) 1,207,580 Gross profit 203,810 156,093 34,574 — (2,102 ) 392,375 Selling, general and administrative expense 32,351 27,894 24,088 49,410 — 133,743 Operating income (loss) before charges 171,459 128,199 10,486 (49,410 ) (2,102 ) 258,632 Business interruption insurance gain — — (4,523 ) — — (4,523 ) Net (gain) loss on sale or disposal of assets (445 ) 41 92 78 — (234 ) Operating income (loss) $ 171,904 $ 128,158 $ 14,917 $ (49,488 ) $ (2,102 ) $ 263,389 Depreciation and amortization $ 49,032 $ 7,940 $ 3,509 $ 1,755 $ (1,602 ) $ 60,634 Property and equipment additions $ 45,506 $ 11,813 $ 1,427 $ 5,349 $ (2,625 ) $ 61,470 At September 30, 2016 Total assets $ 2,961,074 $ 329,694 $ 70,923 $ 1,349,186 $ (1,501,815 ) $ 3,209,062 At December 31, 2015 Total assets $ 2,186,959 $ 306,296 $ 73,491 $ 471,112 $ (536,726 ) $ 2,501,132

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies We have certain commitments including operating leases, purchase agreements and acquisition agreements. These items are discussed in detail in our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. We also have contingencies as follows: a. Earn-Out Payments We have contractual arrangements in connection with certain acquisitions, whereby additional cash may be paid to former owners of acquired companies upon fulfillment of specified financial criteria as set forth in the respective agreements. The amount to be paid cannot be determined until the earn-out periods have expired. If the specified financial criteria are satisfied, we will be obligated to pay an additional $ 8.5 million . In accordance with business combination accounting guidance, contingent consideration, such as earn-outs, are recognized as part of the consideration transferred on the acquisition date. A liability is initially recorded based upon its acquisition date fair value. The changes in fair value are recognized in earnings where applicable for each reporting period. The fair value is determined using a contractually stated formula using either a multiple of revenue or Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA"). The formulas used to determine the estimated fair value are Level 3 inputs. The changes in fair value were immaterial to our condensed, consolidated financial statements taken as a whole. We recorded $6.6 million and $ 3.5 million in earn-out liabilities as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively, which are included in other accrued liabilities in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets. b. Legal Proceedings On May 29, 2013, a former veterinary assistant at one of our animal hospitals filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, titled Jorge Duran vs. VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc., et. al. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of current and former veterinary assistants employed by us in California, and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly failed to pay regular and overtime wages, improperly failed to provide proper meal and rest periods, and engaged in unfair business practices. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys’ fees and costs. On May 7, 2014, we obtained partial summary judgment, dismissing four of eight claims of the complaint, including the claims for failure to pay regular and overtime wages. On January 9, 2014, Plaintiff Duran moved to certify a meal period premium class, a rest period premium class and a class under California’s Business and Professions Code §§17200 et seq., On June 24, 2015, the Court denied Plaintiff’s Motion. Plaintiff is now pursuing his representative claims under the seventh cause of action (Private Attorneys General Act or PAGA). We intend to continue to vigorously defend against the remaining claim in this action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonable possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole. On July 16, 2014, two additional former veterinary assistants filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, titled La Kimba Bradsbery and Cheri Brakensiek vs. Vicar Operating, Inc., et. al. The lawsuit seeks to assert claims on behalf of current and former veterinary assistants, kennel assistants, and client service representatives employed by us in California, and alleges, among other allegations, that we improperly failed to pay regular and overtime wages, improperly failed to provide proper meal and rest periods, improperly failed to pay reporting time pay, improperly failed to reimburse for certain business-related expenses, and engaged in unfair business practices. The lawsuit seeks damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys’ fees and costs. In September 2014, the court issued an order staying the La Kimba Bradsbery lawsuit, which stay remains in place. On or about August 23, 2016, the Court lifted the stay and discovery is proceeding. We intend to vigorously defend against the Bradsbery action. At this time, we are unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of possible loss, but do not believe losses, if any, would have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position taken as a whole. On July 12, 2013, an individual who provided courier services with respect to our laboratory clients in California filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Santa Clara - San Jose Branch, titled Carlos Lopez vs. Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, Antech Diagnostics, Inc., et. al. Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, a co-defendant in the lawsuit, is a company with which Antech has contracted to provide courier services in California. The lawsuit sought to assert claims on behalf of individuals who were engaged by Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC to perform such courier services and alleges, among other allegations, that Logistics Delivery Solutions and Antech 11. Commitments and Contingencies, continued Diagnostics improperly classified the plaintiffs as independent contractors, improperly failed to pay overtime wages, and improperly failed to provide proper meal periods. The lawsuit sought damages, statutory penalties, and other relief, including attorneys' fees and costs. The parties agreed to settle the action, on a class-wide basis, for an amount not to exceed $1,250,000 . Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC, has agreed to pay half of the claim. Accordingly, as of June 30, 2016, we have accrued the remaining fifty percent. The settlement is not an admission of wrongdoing or acceptance of fault by any of the defendants named in the complaint. Antech Diagnostics and Logistics Delivery Solutions agreed to the settlement to eliminate the uncertainties, risk, distraction and expense associated with protracted litigation. The Court granted preliminary approval of the settlement on November 30, 2015 and issued an order granting final approval of the settlement on March 25, 2016. On April 11, 2016, the Court entered the Judgment approving the settlement and the judgment went into effect on June 1, 2016. The final settlement amount was approximately $900,000 , half of which was paid by DSA pursuant to our agreement. Payments to class members were made in early July 2016 and this matter is now closed. On May 12, 2014, an individual client who purchased goods and services from one of our animal hospitals filed a purported class action lawsuit against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, titled Tony M. Graham vs. VCA Antech, Inc. and VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc. The lawsuit sought to assert claims on behalf of the plaintiff and other individuals who purchased similar goods and services from our animal hospitals and alleged, among other allegations, that we improperly charged such individuals for “biohazard waste management” in connection with the services performed. The lawsuit sought compensatory and punitive damages in unspecified amounts, and other relief, including attorneys' fees and costs. VCA successfully had the venue transferred to the Southern District of California. Plaintiffs filed their motion for class certification on February 12, 2016. In late July 2016, VCA had filed a Summary Judgment Motion. The Honorable Christina Snyder issued her decision on September 12, 2016, denying Plaintiffs’ motion for class certification and granting Defendants’ summary judgment motion. Plaintiff in this action filed an appeal of this judgment in October 2016. We intend to continue to vigorously defend this action. In addition to the lawsuits described above, we are party to ordinary routine legal proceedings and claims incidental to our business, but we are not currently a party to any legal proceeding that we believe would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling Interests	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Noncontrolling Interests	Noncontrolling Interests We own some of our animal hospitals in partnerships with noncontrolling interest holders. We consolidate our partnerships in our condensed, consolidated financial statements because our ownership interest in these partnerships is equal to or greater than 50.1% and we control these entities. We record noncontrolling interest in income of subsidiaries equal to our partners’ percentage ownership of the partnerships’ income. We also record changes in the redemption value of our redeemable noncontrolling interests in net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our condensed, consolidated statements of income. We reflect our noncontrolling partners’ cumulative share in the equity of the respective partnerships as either noncontrolling interests in equity, mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests in other liabilities, or redeemable noncontrolling interests in temporary equity (mezzanine) in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets. a. Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests The terms of some of our partnership agreements require us to purchase the partner’s equity in the partnership in the event of the partner’s death. We report these redeemable noncontrolling interests at their estimated redemption value, which approximates fair value, and classify them as liabilities due to the certainty of the related event. Estimated redemption value is determined using either a contractually stated formula or a discounted cash flow technique, both of which are used as an approximation of fair value. The discounted cash flow inputs used to determine the redemption value are Level 3 and include forecasted growth rates, valuation multiples, and the weighted average cost of capital. We recognize changes in the obligation as interest cost in our condensed, consolidated statements of income. The following table provides a summary of mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests included in other liabilities in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets (in thousands): Income Statement Impact Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ 9,405 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,088 Redemption value change 1 1,089 Purchase of noncontrolling interests (803 ) Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,099 ) Currency translation adjustment (338 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 8,254 Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 8,588 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,220 Redemption value change 80 1,300 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,088 ) Currency translation adjustment 117 Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 8,917 12. Noncontrolling Interests, continued b. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests We also enter into partnership agreements whereby the noncontrolling interest partner is issued certain “put” rights. These rights are normally exercisable at the sole discretion of the noncontrolling interest partner. We report these redeemable noncontrolling interests at their estimated redemption value and classify them in temporary equity (mezzanine). We recognize changes in the obligation in net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our condensed, consolidated statements of income. The following table provides a summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests (in thousands): Income Statement Impact Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ 11,077 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,021 Redemption value change 371 1,392 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,196 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 11,273 Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 11,511 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,233 Redemption value change 619 1,852 Purchase of noncontrolling interests (98 ) Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,186 ) Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 12,079

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In October 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-17, “ Consolidation (Topic 810) Interests held through Related Parties That are under Common Control, ” to amend the consolidation guidance on how a reporting entity that is the single decision maker of a variable interest entity (VIE) should treat indirect interests in the entity held through related parties that are under common control with the reporting entity when determining whether it is the primary beneficiary of that VIE. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the reporting entity that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE and, therefore, consolidates the VIE. A reporting entity has an indirect interest in a VIE if it has a direct interest in a related party that, in turn, has a direct interest in the VIE. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU for public entities are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. Since this update is related to ASU 2015-02, “ Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis,” the amendments should be applied retrospectively if ASU 2015-02 has already been adopted. If not, amendments of both these ASUs should be adopted at the same time, with the same transition method elected for ASU 2015-02. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “ Income Taxes (Topic 710) Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory, ” to improve the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. While current GAAP prohibits the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset has been sold to an outside party, this ASU requires the entity to recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. The amendments in this Update are part of the Board’s Simplification initiative and align the recognition of income tax consequences for intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU for public entities are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those reporting periods, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied using a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “ Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments, ” to provide guidance on eight specific cash flow issues where current GAAP is unclear or does not have specific guidance. The cash flow issues covered by this ASU are: 1) debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; 2) settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing; 3) contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; 4) proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; 5) proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies; 6) distributions received from equity method investees; 7) beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and 8) separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU for public entities are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. If it is impracticable to apply the amendments retrospectively for some of the issues, the amendments for those issues would be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients, ” to improve the guidance on Topic 606 in assessing collectibility, presentation of sales taxes, noncash consideration, and completed contracts and contract modifications at transition. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU are the same as ASU 2014-09. Since the effective date of ASU 2014-09 was deferred by ASU 2015-14 by one year, ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2016-10 are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted only as of annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. 13. Recent Accounting Pronouncements, continued In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, ” to clarify some issues on Topic 606 that arose on the identifying performance obligations and the licensing implementation guidance. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU are the same as ASU 2014-09. Since the effective date of ASU 2014-09 was deferred by ASU 2015-14 by one year, ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2016-10 are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted only as of annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “ Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, ” as part of the Board’s Simplification Initiative. The areas for simplification in this Update involves several aspects of share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. If an entity early adopts the amendments in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. An entity that elects early adoption must adopt all of the amendments in the same period. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-09 on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net). ” The amendments in this Update affect the guidance in Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 , "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)," which is not yet effective. The effective date and transition requirements for the amendments in this Update are the same as the effective date and transition requirements of Update 2014-09. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-07, “Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Simplifying the Transition to the Equity Method of Accounting.” The amendments in this Update eliminate the requirement that when an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence, an investor must adjust the investment, results of operations, and retained earnings retroactively on a step-by step basis as if the equity method had been in effect during all previous periods that the investment had been held. The amendments require that the equity method investor add the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and adopt the equity method of accounting as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting. Therefore, upon qualifying for the equity method of accounting, no retroactive adjustment of the investment is required. The amendments in this Update require that an entity that has an available-for-sale equity security that becomes qualified for the equity method of accounting recognize through earnings the unrealized holding gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income at the date the investment becomes qualified for use of the equity method. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments should be applied prospectively upon their effective date to increases in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence that result in the adoption of the equity method. Earlier adoption is permitted. No additional disclosures are required at transition. We do not expect this adoption to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842) Section A-Leases: Amendments to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification®; Section B-Conforming Amendments Related to Leases: Amendments to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification®; Section C-Background Information and Basis for Conclusions.” The amendments in this Update affect any entity that enters into a lease with some specified scope exemptions and supersedes Topic 840, Leases. The main difference between previous GAAP and Topic 842 is the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous GAAP which did not require lease assets and lease liabilities to be recognized for most leases. The lease assets and lease liabilities arising from operating leases should be recognized in the statement of financial position. A lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. When measuring 13. Recent Accounting Pronouncements, continued assets and liabilities arising from a lease, a lessee (and a lessor) should include payments to be made in optional periods only if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise an option to extend the lease or not to exercise an option to terminate the lease. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-02 on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” An entity should present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk if the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. For public business entities, this Update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect this adoption to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events Subsequent to September 30, 2016, we acquired 11 hospitals for an estimated total consideration of $58.0 million , with acquired revenues of $30.7 million ; the total consideration includes $7.5 million for the purchase of real property in connection with one of the hospital acquisitions

Basis of Presentation (Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	The accounting policies of our segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. We evaluate the performance of our segments based on gross profit and operating income. For purposes of reviewing the operating performance of our segments, all intercompany sales and purchases are generally accounted for as if they were transactions with independent third parties at current market prices.
Noncontrolling Interests	We own some of our animal hospitals in partnerships with noncontrolling interest holders. We consolidate our partnerships in our condensed, consolidated financial statements because our ownership interest in these partnerships is equal to or greater than 50.1% and we control these entities. We record noncontrolling interest in income of subsidiaries equal to our partners’ percentage ownership of the partnerships’ income. We also record changes in the redemption value of our redeemable noncontrolling interests in net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our condensed, consolidated statements of income. We reflect our noncontrolling partners’ cumulative share in the equity of the respective partnerships as either noncontrolling interests in equity, mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests in other liabilities, or redeemable noncontrolling interests in temporary equity (mezzanine) in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	In October 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-17, “ Consolidation (Topic 810) Interests held through Related Parties That are under Common Control, ” to amend the consolidation guidance on how a reporting entity that is the single decision maker of a variable interest entity (VIE) should treat indirect interests in the entity held through related parties that are under common control with the reporting entity when determining whether it is the primary beneficiary of that VIE. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the reporting entity that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE and, therefore, consolidates the VIE. A reporting entity has an indirect interest in a VIE if it has a direct interest in a related party that, in turn, has a direct interest in the VIE. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU for public entities are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. Since this update is related to ASU 2015-02, “ Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis,” the amendments should be applied retrospectively if ASU 2015-02 has already been adopted. If not, amendments of both these ASUs should be adopted at the same time, with the same transition method elected for ASU 2015-02. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “ Income Taxes (Topic 710) Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory, ” to improve the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. While current GAAP prohibits the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset has been sold to an outside party, this ASU requires the entity to recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. The amendments in this Update are part of the Board’s Simplification initiative and align the recognition of income tax consequences for intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU for public entities are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those reporting periods, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied using a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “ Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments, ” to provide guidance on eight specific cash flow issues where current GAAP is unclear or does not have specific guidance. The cash flow issues covered by this ASU are: 1) debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; 2) settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing; 3) contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; 4) proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; 5) proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies; 6) distributions received from equity method investees; 7) beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and 8) separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU for public entities are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. If it is impracticable to apply the amendments retrospectively for some of the issues, the amendments for those issues would be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients, ” to improve the guidance on Topic 606 in assessing collectibility, presentation of sales taxes, noncash consideration, and completed contracts and contract modifications at transition. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU are the same as ASU 2014-09. Since the effective date of ASU 2014-09 was deferred by ASU 2015-14 by one year, ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2016-10 are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted only as of annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. 13. Recent Accounting Pronouncements, continued In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, ” to clarify some issues on Topic 606 that arose on the identifying performance obligations and the licensing implementation guidance. The effective date and transition requirements of this ASU are the same as ASU 2014-09. Since the effective date of ASU 2014-09 was deferred by ASU 2015-14 by one year, ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2016-10 are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted only as of annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “ Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, ” as part of the Board’s Simplification Initiative. The areas for simplification in this Update involves several aspects of share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. If an entity early adopts the amendments in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. An entity that elects early adoption must adopt all of the amendments in the same period. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-09 on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net). ” The amendments in this Update affect the guidance in Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 , "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)," which is not yet effective. The effective date and transition requirements for the amendments in this Update are the same as the effective date and transition requirements of Update 2014-09. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-07, “Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Simplifying the Transition to the Equity Method of Accounting.” The amendments in this Update eliminate the requirement that when an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence, an investor must adjust the investment, results of operations, and retained earnings retroactively on a step-by step basis as if the equity method had been in effect during all previous periods that the investment had been held. The amendments require that the equity method investor add the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and adopt the equity method of accounting as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting. Therefore, upon qualifying for the equity method of accounting, no retroactive adjustment of the investment is required. The amendments in this Update require that an entity that has an available-for-sale equity security that becomes qualified for the equity method of accounting recognize through earnings the unrealized holding gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income at the date the investment becomes qualified for use of the equity method. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments should be applied prospectively upon their effective date to increases in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence that result in the adoption of the equity method. Earlier adoption is permitted. No additional disclosures are required at transition. We do not expect this adoption to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842) Section A-Leases: Amendments to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification®; Section B-Conforming Amendments Related to Leases: Amendments to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification®; Section C-Background Information and Basis for Conclusions.” The amendments in this Update affect any entity that enters into a lease with some specified scope exemptions and supersedes Topic 840, Leases. The main difference between previous GAAP and Topic 842 is the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous GAAP which did not require lease assets and lease liabilities to be recognized for most leases. The lease assets and lease liabilities arising from operating leases should be recognized in the statement of financial position. A lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. When measuring 13. Recent Accounting Pronouncements, continued assets and liabilities arising from a lease, a lessee (and a lessor) should include payments to be made in optional periods only if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise an option to extend the lease or not to exercise an option to terminate the lease. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-02 on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” An entity should present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk if the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. For public business entities, this Update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect this adoption to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interests	Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests The terms of some of our partnership agreements require us to purchase the partner’s equity in the partnership in the event of the partner’s death. We report these redeemable noncontrolling interests at their estimated redemption value, which approximates fair value, and classify them as liabilities due to the certainty of the related event. Estimated redemption value is determined using either a contractually stated formula or a discounted cash flow technique, both of which are used as an approximation of fair value. The discounted cash flow inputs used to determine the redemption value are Level 3 and include forecasted growth rates, valuation multiples, and the weighted average cost of capital. We recognize changes in the obligation as interest cost in our condensed, consolidated statements of income.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interests	Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests We also enter into partnership agreements whereby the noncontrolling interest partner is issued certain “put” rights. These rights are normally exercisable at the sole discretion of the noncontrolling interest partner. We report these redeemable noncontrolling interests at their estimated redemption value and classify them in temporary equity (mezzanine). We recognize changes in the obligation in net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our condensed, consolidated statements of income.

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived25

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	The following table presents the changes in the carrying amount of our goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 (in thousands): Animal Hospital Laboratory All Other Total Balance as of December 31, 2015 Goodwill $ 1,402,106 $ 101,269 $ 144,332 $ 1,647,707 Accumulated impairment losses — — (130,057 ) (130,057 ) Subtotal 1,402,106 101,269 14,275 1,517,650 Goodwill acquired 536,060 — 941 537,001 Foreign translation adjustment 6,657 24 — 6,681 Other (1) 2,162 — — 2,162 Balance as of September 30, 2016 Goodwill 1,946,985 101,293 145,273 2,193,551 Accumulated impairment losses — — (130,057 ) (130,057 ) Subtotal $ 1,946,985 $ 101,293 $ 15,216 $ 2,063,494 ____________________________ (1) "Other" consists primarily of measurement period adjustments.
Summary of Other Intangible Assets	Our acquisition related amortizable intangible assets at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): As of September 30, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Non-contractual customer relationships $ 214,050 $ (61,153 ) $ 152,897 $ 116,082 $ (48,821 ) $ 67,261 Covenants not-to-compete 22,613 (6,997 ) 15,616 12,435 (4,779 ) 7,656 Favorable lease assets 9,457 (5,751 ) 3,706 9,441 (5,440 ) 4,001 Technology 1,377 (748 ) 629 1,377 (589 ) 788 Trademarks 29,525 (6,604 ) 22,921 10,551 (4,086 ) 6,465 Franchise rights 11,730 (2,444 ) 9,286 11,730 (1,564 ) 10,166 Total $ 288,752 $ (83,697 ) $ 205,055 $ 161,616 $ (65,279 ) $ 96,337
Estimated Amortization Expense Related to Intangible Assets	The following table summarizes our aggregate amortization expense related to acquisition related intangible assets (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 2016 2015 Aggregate amortization expense $ 10,682 $ 5,811 $ 26,709 $ 17,195
Estimated Amortization Expense Related to Indefinite Intangible Assets	The estimated amortization expense related to acquisition related intangible assets for the remainder of 2016 and each of the succeeding years thereafter, as of September 30, 2016 , is as follows (in thousands): Finite-lived intangible assets: Remainder of 2016 $ 11,109 2017 40,011 2018 36,554 2019 33,544 2020 28,711 Thereafter 55,126 Total $ 205,055 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 4,040 Total intangible assets $ 209,095

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition Summary Of Acquired Properties	The table below reflects the activity related to the acquisitions and dispositions of our animal hospitals and laboratories during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively: Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 Animal Hospitals: Acquisitions 105 42 Acquisitions, merged (3 ) (4 ) Sold, closed or merged (8 ) (7 ) Net increase 94 31 Laboratories: Acquisitions — 1 Acquisitions, merged — (1 ) Net increase — —
Schedule of Pro Forma Information	In addition, the pro forma financial information does not attempt to project the future results of operations of our company: Revenue Net Income (In thousands): Results of acquired businesses included in our three months ended September 30, 2016 actuals $ 64,517 $ 4,661 2016 supplemental pro forma from July 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016 (1) $ 662,840 $ 58,922 2015 supplemental pro forma from July 1, 2015 to September 30, 2015 (1) $ 623,568 $ 59,070 Results of acquired businesses included in our nine months ended September 30, 2016 actuals $ 128,710 $ 9,523 2016 supplemental pro forma from January 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016 (2) $ 1,947,799 $ 172,866 2015 supplemental pro forma from January 1, 2015 to September 30, 2015 (2) $ 1,844,007 $ 154,880 ____________________________ (1) 2016 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to exclude $0.1 million of acquisition-related costs incurred during the three months ended September 30, 2016 . 2015 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to include these charges. (2) 2016 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to exclude $1.3 million of acquisition-related costs incurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 . 2015 supplemental pro forma net income attributable to VCA was adjusted to include these charges.
Animal Hospitals And Laboratory Acquisitions
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the aggregate consideration for our independent animal hospitals and labs acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, (in thousands): Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 Consideration: Cash $ 247,733 $ 116,428 Cash acquired (876 ) (67 ) Cash, net of cash acquired $ 246,857 $ 116,361 Assumed debt 2,860 12,402 Holdbacks 6,972 4,497 Earn-outs 4,155 476 Fair value of total consideration transferred $ 260,844 $ 133,736 Allocation of the Purchase Price: Tangible assets $ 24,761 $ 10,060 Identifiable intangible assets (1) 32,016 34,130 Goodwill (2) 205,394 93,645 Other liabilities assumed (376 ) (1,424 ) Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed $ 261,795 $ 136,411 Noncontrolling interest (951 ) (2,675 ) Total $ 260,844 $ 133,736 ____________________________ (1) Identifiable intangible assets include customer relationships, trademarks and covenants-not-to-compete. The weighted-average amortization period for the total identifiable intangible assets is approximately five years. The weighted-average amortization period for customer relationships, trademarks and covenants is approximately five years, six years and five years, respectively. (2) We expect that $199.1 million and $73.5 million of the goodwill recorded for these acquisitions, as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, will be fully deductible for income tax purposes.
Companion Animal Practices, North America
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the purchase price and the preliminary allocation of the purchase price (in thousands): Consideration: Cash $ 352,829 Cash acquired (3,405 ) Cash, net of cash acquired $ 349,424 Holdbacks 1,000 Fair value of total consideration transferred $ 350,424 Allocation of the Purchase Price: Tangible assets $ 21,118 Identifiable intangible assets (1) 102,300 Goodwill (2) 330,668 Other liabilities assumed (17,662 ) Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed $ 436,424 Noncontrolling interest (86,000 ) Total $ 350,424 ____________________________ (1) Identifiable intangible assets primarily include customer relationships, trademarks and covenants-not-to-compete. The weighted-average amortization period for the total identifiable intangible assets is approximately seven years. The amortization periods for customer relationships, trademarks and covenants is seven years, five years and five years, respectively. (2) As of September 30, 2016, we expect that $265.8 million of goodwill recorded for this acquisition will be deductible for income tax purposes.

Other Accrued Liabilities (Tabl

Other Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Other Accrued Liabilities	Other accrued liabilities consisted of the following at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands): September 30, 2016 December 31, 2015 Deferred revenue $ 18,647 $ 14,647 Holdbacks and earn-outs 14,042 9,959 Accrued workers' compensation 7,329 3,212 Accrued other insurance 5,988 5,013 Accrued health insurance 5,702 4,952 Deferred rent 5,469 4,791 Miscellaneous accrued taxes (1) 4,867 3,317 Accrued accounting and legal fees 3,143 2,697 Customer deposits 2,393 2,971 Accrued lease payments 2,111 1,536 Other 15,916 17,733 $ 85,607 $ 70,828 ____________________________ (1) Includes property, sales and use taxes.

Long-Term Obligations (Tables)

Long-Term Obligations (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments	Long-term obligations consisted of the following at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands): September 30, 2016 December 31, 2015 Senior term notes Principal amount $ 874,500 $ 585,000 Less unamortized debt issuance costs (2,781 ) (2,408 ) Senior term notes less unamortized debt issuance costs, secured by assets, variable interest rate (2.27% and 1.92% at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) (1) $ 871,719 $ 582,592 Revolving credit Principal amount $ 340,000 $ 232,000 Less unamortized debt issuance costs (4,321 ) (3,725 ) Revolving line of credit less unamortized debt issuance costs, secured by assets, variable interest rate (2.31% and 1.92% at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) (1) $ 335,679 $ 228,275 Secured seller note Notes payable matures in 2016, secured by assets and stock of certain subsidiaries, with interest rate of 10.0% 230 230 Total debt obligations 1,207,628 811,097 Capital lease obligations and other debt 71,006 55,244 1,278,634 866,341 Less — current portion (32,512 ) (33,623 ) $ 1,246,122 $ 832,718 ____________________________ (1) Notes payable and the revolving line of credit at September 30, 2016 mature in 2021 under the New Senior Credit Facility. Notes payable and the revolving line of credit at December 31, 2015 were due to mature in 2019 under the previous senior credit facility dated August 27, 2014.
Schedule of Percentage Margin for Eurodollar Rate Loans and Commitment Fee	Each of the aforementioned margins remain applicable until the date of delivery of the compliance certificate and the financial statements, for the period ended September 30, 2016 , at which time the applicable margin will be determined by reference to the leverage ratio in effect from time to time as set forth in the following table: 6. Long-Term Obligations, continued Pricing Tier Consolidated Leverage Ratio Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans Commitment Fee 1 ≥ 3.50:1.00 2.00 % 1.00 % 0.40 % 2 < 3.50:1.00 and ≥ 2.75:1.00 1.75 % 0.75 % 0.35 % 3 < 2.75:1.00 and ≥ 1.75:1.00 1.50 % 0.50 % 0.30 % 4 < 1.75:1.00 and ≥ 1.00:1.00 1.25 % 0.25 % 0.25 % 5 < 1.00:1.00 1.00 % — % 0.25 %
Schedule of Principal Payments for Senior Term Notes	The following table sets forth the scheduled principal payments for our senior credit facility (in thousands): 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter Senior term notes $ 5,500 $ 33,000 $ 44,000 $ 55,000 $ 77,000 $ 660,000 Revolving loans — — — — — 340,000 $ 5,500 $ 33,000 $ 44,000 $ 55,000 $ 77,000 $ 1,000,000

Fair Value (Tables)

Fair Value (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Carrying value and fair value of variable rate long-term debt	The following table reflects the carrying value and fair value of our variable-rate long-term debt (in thousands): As of September 30, As of December 31, 2016 2015 Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Variable-rate long-term debt $ 1,214,500 $ 1,214,500 $ 817,000 $ 817,000

Share-Based Compensation (Table

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Summary of nonvested stock activity	A summary of our nonvested stock activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 is as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Shares Grant Date Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share Outstanding at December 31, 2015 417 $ 38.28 Granted 123 $ 68.49 Vested (18 ) $ 27.58 Forfeited/Canceled (5 ) $ 39.05 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 517 $ 45.83
Summary of restricted stock unit activity	A summary of our restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 is as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Shares Grant Date Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share Outstanding at December 31, 2015 747 $ 37.91 Granted 228 $ 56.01 Paid Out (216 ) $ 25.81 Forfeited/Canceled (1 ) $ 21.04 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 758 $ 46.82

Calculation of Earnings per S31

Calculation of Earnings per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share	Basic and diluted earnings per share were calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended 2016 2015 2016 2015 Net income attributable to VCA Inc. $ 58,231 $ 54,854 $ 168,508 $ 147,454 Weighted-average common shares outstanding: Basic 80,924 80,815 80,845 81,700 Effect of dilutive potential common shares: Stock options 270 338 287 338 Non-vested shares and units 618 642 563 706 Diluted 81,812 81,795 81,695 82,744 Basic earnings per common share $ 0.72 $ 0.68 $ 2.08 $ 1.80 Diluted earnings per common share $ 0.71 $ 0.67 $ 2.06 $ 1.78

Lines of Business (Tables)

Lines of Business (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Lines of Business	The following is a summary of certain financial data for each of our segments (in thousands): Animal Hospital Laboratory All Other Corporate Eliminations Total Three Months Ended External revenue $ 553,378 $ 84,970 $ 17,450 $ — $ 1,056 $ 656,854 Intercompany revenue — 20,170 5,537 — (25,707 ) — Total revenue 553,378 105,140 22,987 — (24,651 ) 656,854 Direct costs 459,242 50,934 14,066 — (23,965 ) 500,277 Gross profit 94,136 54,206 8,921 — (686 ) 156,577 Selling, general and administrative expense 15,541 9,728 6,064 18,010 — 49,343 Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets 78,595 44,478 2,857 (18,010 ) (686 ) 107,234 Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets 304 1 1 (70 ) — 236 Operating income (loss) $ 78,291 $ 44,477 $ 2,856 $ (17,940 ) $ (686 ) $ 106,998 Depreciation and amortization $ 23,363 $ 2,826 $ 848 $ 679 $ (622 ) $ 27,094 Property and equipment additions $ 24,917 $ 4,953 $ 383 $ 2,794 $ (1,315 ) $ 31,732 Three Months Ended External revenue $ 441,924 $ 84,129 $ 24,544 $ — $ 1,120 $ 551,717 Intercompany revenue — 16,180 6,294 — (22,474 ) — Total revenue 441,924 100,309 30,838 — (21,354 ) 551,717 Direct costs 366,983 48,901 19,077 — (20,910 ) 414,051 Gross profit 74,941 51,408 11,761 — (444 ) 137,666 Selling, general and administrative expense 10,677 9,542 7,660 16,981 — 44,860 Operating income (loss) before charges 64,264 41,866 4,101 (16,981 ) (444 ) 92,806 Business interruption insurance gain — — (4,523 ) — — (4,523 ) Net loss on sale or disposal of assets 175 — 72 3 — 250 Operating income (loss) $ 64,089 $ 41,866 $ 8,552 $ (16,984 ) $ (444 ) $ 97,079 Depreciation and amortization $ 16,520 $ 2,731 $ 1,181 $ 588 $ (549 ) $ 20,471 Property and equipment additions $ 19,429 $ 5,735 $ 127 $ 2,773 $ (1,115 ) $ 26,949 10. Lines of Business, continued Animal Hospital Laboratory All Other Corporate Eliminations Total Nine Months Ended External revenue $ 1,552,377 $ 267,475 $ 50,560 $ — $ 3,370 $ 1,873,782 Intercompany revenue — 56,452 15,237 — (71,689 ) — Total revenue 1,552,377 323,927 65,797 — (68,319 ) 1,873,782 Direct costs 1,290,145 152,458 41,049 — (67,175 ) 1,416,477 Gross profit 262,232 171,469 24,748 — (1,144 ) 457,305 Selling, general and administrative expense 41,903 29,726 17,385 58,647 — 147,661 Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets 220,329 141,743 7,363 (58,647 ) (1,144 ) 309,644 Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets 747 (34 ) 4 (189 ) — 528 Operating income (loss) $ 219,582 $ 141,777 $ 7,359 $ (58,458 ) $ (1,144 ) $ 309,116 Depreciation and amortization $ 62,811 $ 8,446 $ 2,635 $ 1,985 $ (1,805 ) $ 74,072 Property and equipment additions $ 68,947 $ 14,355 $ 2,475 $ 7,981 $ (3,212 ) $ 90,546 Nine Months Ended External revenue $ 1,270,326 $ 252,645 $ 73,895 $ — $ 3,089 $ 1,599,955 Intercompany revenue — 47,858 19,839 — (67,697 ) — Total revenue 1,270,326 300,503 93,734 — (64,608 ) 1,599,955 Direct costs 1,066,516 144,410 59,160 — (62,506 ) 1,207,580 Gross profit 203,810 156,093 34,574 — (2,102 ) 392,375 Selling, general and administrative expense 32,351 27,894 24,088 49,410 — 133,743 Operating income (loss) before charges 171,459 128,199 10,486 (49,410 ) (2,102 ) 258,632 Business interruption insurance gain — — (4,523 ) — — (4,523 ) Net (gain) loss on sale or disposal of assets (445 ) 41 92 78 — (234 ) Operating income (loss) $ 171,904 $ 128,158 $ 14,917 $ (49,488 ) $ (2,102 ) $ 263,389 Depreciation and amortization $ 49,032 $ 7,940 $ 3,509 $ 1,755 $ (1,602 ) $ 60,634 Property and equipment additions $ 45,506 $ 11,813 $ 1,427 $ 5,349 $ (2,625 ) $ 61,470 At September 30, 2016 Total assets $ 2,961,074 $ 329,694 $ 70,923 $ 1,349,186 $ (1,501,815 ) $ 3,209,062 At December 31, 2015 Total assets $ 2,186,959 $ 306,296 $ 73,491 $ 471,112 $ (536,726 ) $ 2,501,132

Noncontrolling Interests (Table

Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests	The following table provides a summary of mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests included in other liabilities in our condensed, consolidated balance sheets (in thousands): Income Statement Impact Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ 9,405 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,088 Redemption value change 1 1,089 Purchase of noncontrolling interests (803 ) Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,099 ) Currency translation adjustment (338 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 8,254 Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 8,588 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,220 Redemption value change 80 1,300 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,088 ) Currency translation adjustment 117 Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 8,917
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests	The following table provides a summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests (in thousands): Income Statement Impact Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ 11,077 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,021 Redemption value change 371 1,392 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,196 ) Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ 11,273 Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 11,511 Noncontrolling interest expense $ 1,233 Redemption value change 619 1,852 Purchase of noncontrolling interests (98 ) Distributions to noncontrolling interests (1,186 ) Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 12,079

Nature of Operations (Details)

Nature of Operations (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016day_care_locationprovinceprovincesLaboratoryHospitalsegmentStatereportable_segment	May 01, 2016HospitalState	Dec. 31, 2015
Nature of Operations (Textuals) [Abstract]
Number of operating segments | segment	4
Number of reportable segments | reportable_segment	2
Number of hospitals operated | Hospital	776
Number of states in which hospitals are operated	43
Number of Canadian Provinces | provinces	5
Number of states in which the company operate a full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory network	50
Number of laboratories operated | Laboratory	60
Companion Animal Practices, North America
Nature of Operations (Textuals) [Abstract]
Number of hospitals operated | Hospital		56
Number of states in which hospitals are operated		18
Percentage of ownership interest		80.00%
Vetstreet
Nature of Operations (Textuals) [Abstract]
Percentage of cumulative ownership			19.90%
Camp Bow Wow
Nature of Operations (Textuals) [Abstract]
Number of dog boarding and day care service locations operated | day_care_location	128
Number of states in which the entity operates	34
Number of Canadian Provinces in which entity operates | province	1

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived35

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets - Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	$ 1,647,707
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	(130,057)
Subtotal, beginning balance	1,517,650
Goodwill acquired	537,001
Foreign translation adjustment	6,681
Other	2,162
Goodwill, ending balance	2,193,551
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	(130,057)
Subtotal, ending balance	2,063,494
Animal Hospital
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	1,402,106
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	0
Subtotal, beginning balance	1,402,106
Goodwill acquired	536,060
Foreign translation adjustment	6,657
Other	2,162
Goodwill, ending balance	1,946,985
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	0
Subtotal, ending balance	1,946,985
Laboratory
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	101,269
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	0
Subtotal, beginning balance	101,269
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign translation adjustment	24
Other	0
Goodwill, ending balance	101,293
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	0
Subtotal, ending balance	101,293
All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	144,332
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	(130,057)
Subtotal, beginning balance	14,275
Goodwill acquired	941
Foreign translation adjustment	0
Other	0
Goodwill, ending balance	145,273
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	(130,057)
Subtotal, ending balance	$ 15,216

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived36

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets - Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 288,752	$ 161,616
Accumulated Amortization	(83,697)	(65,279)
Total	205,055	96,337
Trademarks
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	29,525	10,551
Accumulated Amortization	(6,604)	(4,086)
Total	22,921	6,465
Non-contractual customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	214,050	116,082
Accumulated Amortization	(61,153)	(48,821)
Total	152,897	67,261
Covenants not-to-compete
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	22,613	12,435
Accumulated Amortization	(6,997)	(4,779)
Total	15,616	7,656
Favorable lease assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	9,457	9,441
Accumulated Amortization	(5,751)	(5,440)
Total	3,706	4,001
Technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	1,377	1,377
Accumulated Amortization	(748)	(589)
Total	629	788
Franchise rights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	11,730	11,730
Accumulated Amortization	(2,444)	(1,564)
Total	$ 9,286	$ 10,166

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived37

Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets - Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Aggregate amortization expense	$ 10,682	$ 5,811	$ 26,709	$ 17,195
Finite-lived intangible assets:
Remainder of 2016	11,109		11,109
2,017	40,011		40,011
2,018	36,554		36,554
2,019	33,544		33,544
2,020	28,711		28,711
Thereafter	55,126		55,126
Total	205,055		205,055		$ 96,337
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
Trademarks	4,040		4,040
Total intangible assets	$ 209,095		$ 209,095		$ 97,377

Acquisitions - Acquisition and

Acquisitions - Acquisition and Disposal Activity (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016LaboratoryHospital	Sep. 30, 2015LaboratoryHospital
Animal Hospital
Business Acquisition Summary Of Acquired Properties [Line Items]
Acquisitions	105	42
Acquisitions, merged	(3)	(4)
Sold, closed or merged	(8)	(7)
Net increase	94	31
Laboratories Acquisitions
Business Acquisition Summary Of Acquired Properties [Line Items]
Acquisitions | Laboratory	0	1
Acquisitions, merged | Laboratory	0	(1)
Net increase | Laboratory	0	0

Acquisitions - Animal Hospital

Acquisitions - Animal Hospital and Laboratory Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Consideration:
Cash, net of cash acquired	$ 599,655	$ 119,336
Earn-outs	6,600		$ 3,500
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Goodwill	2,063,494		$ 1,517,650
Animal Hospitals And Laboratory Acquisitions
Consideration:
Cash	247,733	116,428
Cash acquired	(876)	(67)
Cash, net of cash acquired	246,857	116,361
Assumed debt	2,860	12,402
Holdbacks	6,972	4,497
Earn-outs	4,155	476
Fair value of total consideration transferred	260,844	133,736
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Tangible assets	24,761	10,060
Identifiable intangible assets	32,016	34,130
Goodwill	205,394	93,645
Other liabilities assumed	(376)	(1,424)
Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed	261,795	136,411
Noncontrolling interest	(951)	(2,675)
Total	$ 260,844	133,736
Weighted average amortization period	5 years
Goodwill recorded for acquisitions, fully deductible for income tax purposes	$ 199,100	$ 73,500
Animal Hospitals And Laboratory Acquisitions | Customer Relationships
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Weighted average amortization period	5 years
Animal Hospitals And Laboratory Acquisitions | Trademarks
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Weighted average amortization period	6 years
Animal Hospitals And Laboratory Acquisitions | Covenants
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Weighted average amortization period	5 years

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)
Abaxis Veterinary Reference Laboratory
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Consideration transferred	$ 21

Acquisitions - Companion Animal

Acquisitions - Companion Animal Practices, North America Acquisition (Details) $ in Thousands	May 01, 2016USD ($)HospitalState	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)HospitalState	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of hospitals operated | Hospital		776
Number of states in which hospitals are operated | State		43
Consideration:
Cash, net of cash acquired		$ 599,655	$ 119,336
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Goodwill		2,063,494		$ 1,517,650
Companion Animal Practices, North America
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership interest	80.00%
Number of hospitals operated | Hospital	56
Number of states in which hospitals are operated | State	18
Consideration:
Cash	$ 352,829
Cash acquired	(3,405)
Cash, net of cash acquired	349,424
Holdbacks	1,000
Fair value of total consideration transferred	350,424
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Tangible assets	21,118
Identifiable intangible assets	102,300
Goodwill	330,668
Other liabilities assumed	(17,662)
Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed	436,424
Noncontrolling interest	(86,000)
Total	$ 350,424
Weighted average amortization period	7 years
Goodwill recorded for acquisitions, fully deductible for income tax purposes		$ 265,800
Companion Animal Practices, North America | Customer Relationships
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Weighted average amortization period	7 years
Companion Animal Practices, North America | Trademarks
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Weighted average amortization period	5 years
Companion Animal Practices, North America | Covenants
Allocation of the Purchase Price:
Weighted average amortization period	5 years

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Financ

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Pro Forma
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition related costs	$ 100		$ 1,300
Acquisitions, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Actual Revenue	64,517		128,710
Actual Net Income	4,661		9,523
Pro Forma Revenue	662,840	$ 623,568	1,947,799	$ 1,844,007
Pro Forma Net Income	$ 58,922	$ 59,070	$ 172,866	$ 154,880

Other Accrued Liabilities (Deta

Other Accrued Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Deferred revenue	$ 18,647	$ 14,647
Holdbacks and earn-outs	14,042	9,959
Accrued workers' compensation	7,329	3,212
Accrued other insurance	5,988	5,013
Accrued health insurance	5,702	4,952
Deferred rent	5,469	4,791
Miscellaneous accrued taxes	4,867	3,317
Accrued accounting and legal fees	3,143	2,697
Customer deposits	2,393	2,971
Accrued lease payments	2,111	1,536
Other	15,916	17,733
Other accrued liabilities	$ 85,607	$ 70,828

Long-Term Obligations - Narrati

Long-Term Obligations - Narrative (Details)	Jun. 29, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 29, 2021USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2020USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt					$ 1,207,628,000				$ 811,097,000
Payment of financing costs					$ 3,817,000	$ 0
Voting equity guarantee on indebtedness, percentage					65.00%
Non-voting equity guarantee on indebtedness, percentage					100.00%
Revolving credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt					$ 335,679,000				228,275,000
Financing costs					4,321,000				3,725,000
Principal amount					340,000,000				232,000,000
Senior term notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt					871,719,000				582,592,000
Financing costs					2,781,000				2,408,000
Principal amount					$ 874,500,000				$ 585,000,000
Senior term notes | Eurodollar rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate					1.00%
Senior term notes | Federal funds rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate					0.50%
Senior term notes | Forecast
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal payment (quarterly)		$ 22,000,000	$ 16,500,000	$ 5,500,000			$ 11,000,000
New Senior Credit Facility | Base rate | Tier Two
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin					0.75%
New Senior Credit Facility | Eurodollar rate | Tier Two
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin					1.75%
New Senior Credit Facility | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Payment of financing costs	$ 3,800,000
Financing costs	3,200,000
Deferred financing costs recognized as part of net income	600,000
New Senior Credit Facility | Secured debt | Bridge Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	25,000,000
New Senior Credit Facility | Line of credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest coverage ratio					16.88
Required interest coverage ratio (no less than)					3
Leverage ratio					2.58
Required leverage ratio (no more than)					4
New Senior Credit Facility | Line of credit | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	1,700,000,000
New Senior Credit Facility | Senior term notes | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument face amount	880,000,000
New Senior Credit Facility | Revolving credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt								$ 375,000,000
New Senior Credit Facility | Revolving credit | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	800,000,000
Credit Agreement | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Capitalized deferred financing costs expensed	1,000,000
Credit Agreement | Senior term notes | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	600,000,000
Credit Agreement | Revolving credit | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 800,000,000

Long-Term Obligations - Summary

Long-Term Obligations - Summary of Long-Term Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt obligations less unamortized discount and debt issuance costs	$ 1,207,628	$ 811,097
Capital lease obligations and other debt	71,006	55,244
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, including current maturities	1,278,634	866,341
Less — current portion	(32,512)	(33,623)
Current potion of long-term debt	1,246,122	832,718
Revolving credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	340,000	232,000
Less unamortized debt issuance costs	(4,321)	(3,725)
Debt obligations less unamortized discount and debt issuance costs	$ 335,679	$ 228,275
Effective interest rate (percentage)	2.31%	1.92%
Senior term notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount	$ 874,500	$ 585,000
Less unamortized debt issuance costs	(2,781)	(2,408)
Debt obligations less unamortized discount and debt issuance costs	$ 871,719	$ 582,592
Effective interest rate (percentage)	2.27%	1.92%
Secured seller note
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt obligations less unamortized discount and debt issuance costs	$ 230	$ 230
Stated interest rate (percentage)	10.00%	10.00%

Long-Term Obligations - Schedul

Long-Term Obligations - Schedule of Percentage Margin For Eurodollar Rate Loans And Commitment Fee (Details) - New Senior Credit Facility	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Tier One
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment Fee	0.40%
Tier One | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	3.5
Tier One | Eurodollar rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	2.00%
Tier One | Base rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	1.00%
Tier Two
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment Fee	0.35%
Tier Two | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	3.5
Tier Two | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	2.75
Tier Two | Eurodollar rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	1.75%
Tier Two | Base rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	0.75%
Tier Three
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment Fee	0.30%
Tier Three | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	2.75
Tier Three | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	1.75
Tier Three | Eurodollar rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	1.50%
Tier Three | Base rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	0.50%
Tier Four
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment Fee	0.25%
Tier Four | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	1.75
Tier Four | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	1
Tier Four | Eurodollar rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	1.25%
Tier Four | Base rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	0.25%
Tier Five
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment Fee	0.25%
Tier Five | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	1
Tier Five | Eurodollar rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	1.00%
Tier Five | Base rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans/Letter of Credit Fees And Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans	0.00%

Long-Term Obligations - Sched47

Long-Term Obligations - Schedule of Long-Term Debt Maturities (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2,016	$ 5,500
2,017	33,000
2,018	44,000
2,019	55,000
2,020	77,000
Thereafter	1,000,000
Revolving loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2,016	0
2,017	0
2,018	0
2,019	0
2,020	0
Thereafter	340,000
Senior term notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2,016	5,500
2,017	33,000
2,018	44,000
2,019	55,000
2,020	77,000
Thereafter	$ 660,000

Fair Value (Details)

Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Carrying value and fair value of long-term debt
Variable-rate long-term debt, Carrying Value	$ 1,214,500	$ 817,000
Variable-rate long-term debt, Fair Value	$ 1,214,500	$ 817,000

Share-Based Compensation - Summ

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Stock Option Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock options granted in period (in shares)			0
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$ 8,000		$ 11,200
Tax benefit from stock option exercised	3,100		4,400
Employee Stock Option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation cost charged against income	100	$ 376	415	$ 1,100
Income tax benefit recognized during period	$ 39	$ 147	$ 162	$ 436

Share-Based Compensation - Su50

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Nonvested Stock Activity (Details) - Nonvested Stock Award - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation cost charged against income			$ 1,500	$ 1,200	$ 4,600	$ 4,200
Income tax benefit recognized during period			577	$ 454	1,800	$ 1,600
Unrecognized compensation cost	$ 19,200		$ 19,200		$ 19,200
Weighted-average period of recognition of unrecognized compensation expense					3 years 32 days
Shares
Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares)					417,000
Granted (in shares)					123,000
Vested (in shares)					(18,000)
Forfeited/Canceled (in shares)					(5,000)
Outstanding, ending balance (in shares)	517,000		517,000		517,000
Grant Date Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share
Outstanding, beginning balance (in dollars per share)					$ 38.28
Granted (in dollars per share)					68.49
Vested (in dollars per share)					27.58
Forfeited/Canceled (in dollars per share)					39.05
Outstanding, ending balance (in dollars per share)	$ 45.83		$ 45.83		$ 45.83
Directors and Non-Executive Employees
Shares
Granted (in shares)					122,733
Board of Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Minimum vesting period of outstanding options and non vested shares (in years)					3 years
Shares
Granted (in shares)		4,992
Non-Executive Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Minimum vesting period of outstanding options and non vested shares (in years)					4 years
Shares
Granted (in shares)	117,741
Anniversary One | Board of Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					33.33%
Anniversary One | Non-Executive Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					25.00%
Anniversary Two | Board of Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					33.33%
Anniversary Two | Non-Executive Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					25.00%
Anniversary Three | Board of Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					33.33%
Anniversary Three | Non-Executive Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					25.00%
Anniversary Four | Non-Executive Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage					25.00%

Share-Based Compensation - Su51

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation cost charged against income	$ 3,000	$ 2,300	$ 8,600	$ 6,800
Income tax benefit recognized during period	1,200	$ 892	3,400	$ 2,700
Unrecognized compensation cost	$ 20,200		$ 20,200
Weighted-average period of recognition of unrecognized compensation expense			3 years 179 days
Shares
Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares)			747,000
Granted (in shares)			228,000
Paid Out (in shares)			(216,000)
Forfeited/Canceled (in shares)			(1,000)
Outstanding, ending balance (in shares)	758,000		758,000
Grant Date Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share
Outstanding, beginning balance (in dollars per share)			$ 37.91
Granted (in dollars per share)			56.01
Paid Out (in dollars per share)			25.81
Forfeited/Canceled (in dollars per share)			21.04
Outstanding, ending balance (in dollars per share)	$ 46.82		$ 46.82
Non-Executive Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Minimum vesting period of outstanding options and non vested shares (in years)			4 years
Shares
Granted (in shares)			228,202
Non-Executive Employees | Anniversary One
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Non-Executive Employees | Anniversary Two
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Non-Executive Employees | Anniversary Three
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Non-Executive Employees | Anniversary Four
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Executive Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized by right	1		1
Minimum vesting period of outstanding options and non vested shares (in years)			4 years
Executive Officer | Anniversary One
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Executive Officer | Anniversary Two
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Executive Officer | Anniversary Three
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%
Executive Officer | Anniversary Four
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, percentage			25.00%

Calculation of Earnings per S52

Calculation of Earnings per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share
Net income attributable to VCA Inc.	$ 58,231	$ 54,854	$ 168,508	$ 147,454
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	80,924,000	80,815,000	80,845,000	81,700,000
Effect of dilutive potential common shares:
Stock options (in shares)	270,000	338,000	287,000	338,000
Non-vested shares and units (in shares)	618,000	642,000	563,000	706,000
Diluted (in shares)	81,812,000	81,795,000	81,695,000	82,744,000
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.72	$ 0.68	$ 2.08	$ 1.80
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.71	$ 0.67	$ 2.06	$ 1.78
Calculation of Earnings per Share (Textuals) [Abstract]
Potential common shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	10,256	0	18,739	24,735

Lines of Business (Details)

Lines of Business (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Lines of Business
External revenue	$ 656,854	$ 551,717	$ 1,873,782	$ 1,599,955
Intercompany revenue	0	0	0	0
Total revenue	656,854	551,717	1,873,782	1,599,955
Direct costs	500,277	414,051	1,416,477	1,207,580
Gross profit	156,577	137,666	457,305	392,375
Selling, general and administrative expense	49,343	44,860	147,661	133,743
Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets	107,234	92,806	309,644	258,632
Business interruption insurance gain	0	(4,523)	0	(4,523)
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	236	250	528	(234)
Operating income (loss)	106,998	97,079	309,116	263,389
Depreciation and amortization	27,094	20,471	74,072	60,634
Property and equipment additions	31,732	26,949	90,546	61,470
Total assets	3,209,062		3,209,062		$ 2,501,132
Operating Segments | Animal Hospital
Lines of Business
External revenue	553,378	441,924	1,552,377	1,270,326
Intercompany revenue	0	0	0	0
Total revenue	553,378	441,924	1,552,377	1,270,326
Direct costs	459,242	366,983	1,290,145	1,066,516
Gross profit	94,136	74,941	262,232	203,810
Selling, general and administrative expense	15,541	10,677	41,903	32,351
Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets	78,595	64,264	220,329	171,459
Business interruption insurance gain		0
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	304	175	747	(445)
Operating income (loss)	78,291	64,089	219,582	171,904
Depreciation and amortization	23,363	16,520	62,811	49,032
Property and equipment additions	24,917	19,429	68,947	45,506
Total assets	2,961,074		2,961,074		2,186,959
Operating Segments | Laboratory
Lines of Business
External revenue	84,970	84,129	267,475	252,645
Intercompany revenue	20,170	16,180	56,452	47,858
Total revenue	105,140	100,309	323,927	300,503
Direct costs	50,934	48,901	152,458	144,410
Gross profit	54,206	51,408	171,469	156,093
Selling, general and administrative expense	9,728	9,542	29,726	27,894
Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets	44,478	41,866	141,743	128,199
Business interruption insurance gain		0
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	1	0	(34)	41
Operating income (loss)	44,477	41,866	141,777	128,158
Depreciation and amortization	2,826	2,731	8,446	7,940
Property and equipment additions	4,953	5,735	14,355	11,813
Total assets	329,694		329,694		306,296
Operating Segments | All Other
Lines of Business
External revenue	17,450	24,544	50,560	73,895
Intercompany revenue	5,537	6,294	15,237	19,839
Total revenue	22,987	30,838	65,797	93,734
Direct costs	14,066	19,077	41,049	59,160
Gross profit	8,921	11,761	24,748	34,574
Selling, general and administrative expense	6,064	7,660	17,385	24,088
Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets	2,857	4,101	7,363	10,486
Business interruption insurance gain		(4,523)		(4,523)
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	1	72	4	92
Operating income (loss)	2,856	8,552	7,359	14,917
Depreciation and amortization	848	1,181	2,635	3,509
Property and equipment additions	383	127	2,475	1,427
Total assets	70,923		70,923		73,491
Corporate, Non-Segment
Lines of Business
External revenue	0	0	0	0
Intercompany revenue	0	0	0	0
Total revenue	0	0	0	0
Direct costs	0	0	0	0
Gross profit	0	0	0	0
Selling, general and administrative expense	18,010	16,981	58,647	49,410
Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets	(18,010)	(16,981)	(58,647)	(49,410)
Business interruption insurance gain		0
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	(70)	3	(189)	78
Operating income (loss)	(17,940)	(16,984)	(58,458)	(49,488)
Depreciation and amortization	679	588	1,985	1,755
Property and equipment additions	2,794	2,773	7,981	5,349
Total assets	1,349,186		1,349,186		471,112
Eliminations
Lines of Business
External revenue	1,056	1,120	3,370	3,089
Intercompany revenue	(25,707)	(22,474)	(71,689)	(67,697)
Total revenue	(24,651)	(21,354)	(68,319)	(64,608)
Direct costs	(23,965)	(20,910)	(67,175)	(62,506)
Gross profit	(686)	(444)	(1,144)	(2,102)
Selling, general and administrative expense	0	0	0	0
Operating income (loss) before sale or disposal of assets	(686)	(444)	(1,144)	(2,102)
Business interruption insurance gain		0
Net loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	0	0	0	0
Operating income (loss)	(686)	(444)	(1,144)	(2,102)
Depreciation and amortization	(622)	(549)	(1,805)	(1,602)
Property and equipment additions	(1,315)	$ (1,115)	(3,212)	$ (2,625)
Total assets	$ (1,501,815)		$ (1,501,815)		$ (536,726)

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Details)	Apr. 11, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 16, 2014plaintiff	May 07, 2014claim	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 12, 2013USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Potential earn-out payment				$ 8,500,000
Earn-outs				$ 6,600,000	$ 3,500,000
Jorge Duran vs. VCA Animal Hospitals
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Claims dismissed | claim			4
Total claims | claim			8
Kimba Bradsbery and Cheri Brakensiek vs. Vicar Operating, Inc.
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of plaintiffs | plaintiff		2
Carlos Lopez versus Logistics Delivery Solutions, LLC
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Settlement agreement, maximum amount						$ 1,250,000
Accrued amount of settlement, percentage				50.00%
Final settlement amount	$ 900,000,000

Noncontrolling Interests - Narr

Noncontrolling Interests - Narrative (Details)	Sep. 30, 2016
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Percentage of ownership interest in partnership	50.10%

Noncontrolling Interests - Summ

Noncontrolling Interests - Summary of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, beginning balance	$ 11,511
Redemption value change	1,852	$ 1,392
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	(4,141)	(690)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(2,667)	(1,784)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, ending balance	12,079
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Noncontrolling interest expense, Income Statement Impact	1,220	1,088
Redemption value change, Income Statement Impact	80	1
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, beginning balance	8,588	9,405
Redemption value change	1,300	1,089
Purchase of noncontrolling interests		(803)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(1,088)	(1,099)
Currency translation adjustment	117	(338)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, ending balance	8,917	8,254
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Noncontrolling interest expense, Income Statement Impact	1,233	1,021
Redemption value change, Income Statement Impact	619	371
Mandatorily Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, beginning balance	11,511	11,077
Redemption value change	1,852	1,392
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	(98)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(1,186)	(1,196)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, ending balance	$ 12,079	$ 11,273

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) - Animal Hospital $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Nov. 07, 2016USD ($)Hospital	Sep. 30, 2016Hospital	Sep. 30, 2015Hospital
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of hospital acquired | Hospital		105	42
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of hospital acquired | Hospital	11
Business combination consideration	$ 58
Acquired revenues	30.7
Real estate purchased in connection with hospital acquisition	$ 7.5