CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the
incorporation by reference in this registration statement of our
report dated March 14, 1997 (except for the matter discussed in 
Note 17, as to which the date is April 28, 1997) included in 
Veterinary Centers of America, Inc.'s Form 10-K/A for the year 
ended December 31, 1996 and to all references to our Firm 
included in or made a part of this Registration Statement.


                                        /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
                                        ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP

Los Angeles, California
   
June 4, 1997