Abstract This study examines the economic effects of integrating Veterinary Professional Associates (VPAs), a mid-level practitioner role, into companion animal veterinary practices. In the context of a veterinarian shortage, we investigate how VPAs can boost efficiency, productivity, and financial performance. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining over 40 interviews with a partial budget model, we estimated the impact of adding one full-time VPA to a 3.5-veterinarian practice.