This Sunday, we speak to Ninad, the founder of Virtue Vets, on how one dog sparked a complete reimagining of veterinary care, combining science, empathy, and design to support pets and their people.
1. Tell us the story behind Virtue Vets—what inspired you to create it, and what sets it apart?
If someone had told me ten years ago that I’d be in veterinary care, I would’ve laughed. But eight years ago, I adopted Fynn—a dog with a long list of health challenges, from a broken leg and pneumonia to a neurodegenerative condition that affected his ability to walk. Over the years, we visited countless clinics across London, and the experience was consistently disappointing. I wasn’t alone—many friends and fellow pet owners shared the same frustration.
My background is in human healthcare, where I spent years improving patient experiences and outcomes. I realised that if we applied the same thinking to veterinary care, we could transform the quality of life for pets. Virtue Vets was built for Fynn and for every pet who deserves better. We created a space with the best people, technology, and environment—and gave our team the freedom to do their best work.
The name “Virtue Vets” reflects our mission to break the vicious cycle of outdated care models and start a virtuous one.
2. How has your personal journey shaped the way Virtue Vets approaches care and community?
I’m an engineer by training, so I naturally think in systems and structures. My approach to veterinary care is no different. I apply analytical thinking to rebuild it from the ground up—rethinking everything from our pricing model to how we track care quality and run our clinics.
After 15 years helping businesses improve efficiency, I saw how inefficiencies in veterinary care directly affected animals—who can’t speak up for themselves—and their owners, who often bear the emotional and financial burden. At Virtue Vets, we cut those inefficiencies and pass the savings on to our clients.
Our clinics in Chelsea, Notting Hill, and beyond are designed for people like me—those who see their pets not just as animals, but as family.
3. At anatomē, we explore the connection between wellbeing and environment. How do you see pets influencing our emotional and mental health?
The impact pets have on wellbeing is enormous and well-documented. Studies show pet owners live longer, have better cardiovascular health, improved gut microbiomes, and report higher happiness levels. One study in Social Indicators Research quantified the value of pet companionship as equivalent to £70,000 a year in life satisfaction—on par with regularly seeing loved ones. The American Psychiatric Association also found that 86% of pet owners report a positive impact on their mental health.
When pets and their humans share moments—like eye contact—they both experience a surge in oxytocin, the “bonding” hormone.
But beyond the science, there’s everyday joy. No matter how your day’s gone, your pet is happy to see you. That unconditional love is rare. Fynn’s cuddles remind me that love, in its purest form, can’t be bought. My emotional health is better because of him.
4. What’s been the most unexpected or eye-opening lesson you’ve learned since founding Virtue Vets?
I’ve learned how deeply fulfilling it is to create something meaningful and positive. Building Virtue Vets from scratch allowed me to reflect my values and surround myself with a team who shares them.
It’s a rare privilege to create your own world—and have that world serve a purpose.
5. Creating a sense of calm is key to both human and animal wellbeing. How do you design your space and approach to help pets feel at ease in your care?
Our clinics are designed to feel like extensions of home—spaces with soft lighting, calming scents, curated textures, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
We also separate areas for cats and dogs to minimise stress, and our team is trained to treat every pet as if they were their own. We know vet visits can be anxiety-inducing, so we go out of our way to create calm for both pets and people.
6. At anatomē, we believe nutrition is the foundation of long-term wellness. How do you guide pet owners in making the best choices for their animals’ health?
Nutrition is one of the most powerful tools we have. At Virtue Vets, we focus on lifetime care—starting early and supporting pets through every life stage.
Our approach has three pillars: quality of life, prevention, and longevity. We tailor nutrition plans to improve comfort, vitality, and happiness, while preventing disease and extending healthy years.
There’s exciting innovation happening in this space—from natural and raw diets to targeted supplements—and we’re at the forefront. Our vets work closely with owners to make informed, supportive choices.
7. What shifts or emerging trends are you noticing in how people care for their pets today?
We’re seeing a real shift toward the humanisation of pets. They’re treated like children—deservedly so—and people are more informed, engaged, and invested in their pets’ wellbeing than ever.
They want transparency, collaboration, and long-term relationships with their vet. That’s exactly what we offer: trust and quality care over time.
8. Wellness is at the heart of what we do at anatomē. How do you define true wellbeing—not just for yourself, but for your clients and their pets?
Every morning, I’m reminded that I won’t have as much time with Fynn as I’d like. That thought grounds me—and helps me appreciate every moment.
Fynn resets daily with naps, stretches, and sunbathing. He finds the light—literally. His simple rituals remind me to live mindfully, look for warmth, and appreciate the small things.
It’s hard to define wellbeing, but I think it lives somewhere close to that.
9. Has working so closely with animals deepened your understanding of connection, trust, and emotional wellbeing?
Absolutely. Animals connect instinctively, often without a single word. They communicate through presence and energy.
Fynn has taught me to read non-verbal cues and to be more attuned—not just to him, but to people too. There’s a depth of connection that comes when we really pay attention.
10. What are your personal rituals or practices for unwinding and maintaining balance?
Walking through London with Fynn is one of my favourite ways to unwind. I also love spending time in beautiful spaces—just being still. Outside of work, I DJ as a creative outlet. Music helps me reset and refuel.
Learn more at Virtue Vets | Marylebone
