The Gatto McFerson Story
Turning our passion for animals into a niche market
SINCE 1977
When the accounting firm of Gatto McFerson was founded in 1977, it wasn’t with the intention of focusing primarily on veterinary clinics. As fate would have it though, a few of our early clients were veterinarians which gave us a unique perspective into the industry. That, combined with a genuine love of animals, spurred us to invest in a veterinary clinic of our own.
As we learned about the industry from the inside, we realized there was a real lack of guidance and support for veterinarians – not just when it came to accounting but every step along the way. And thus, our niche was born. Word got out and clinics around the country began calling us for assistance with all aspects of their business. We not only helped steer these individual practices in the right direction, we began to create the very standards that guide the industry today.
OUR AWARDS
Some might call this a brag sheet. We prefer to see it as a documented track record of success after years of commitment to serving a profession we love. We would like to share with you some of the places that we have made a positive impact along the way – and we hope this will inspire you to join us.
Lifetime Achievement Award to Lou Gatto from VetPartners and Distinguished Service Awards:
- as the Inaugural President of VetPartners
- from UC Davis Veterinary School
- as the President of the Animal Health Foundation
- as District Governor for UNICO National
- as President of Santa Monica Chapter of UNICO National
- as Local President of Lions Club – Pacific Palisades Chapter
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT & ASSOCIATIONS
Being active in the veterinary community has been an important part of the Gatto McFerson culture from the very beginning and is something both founding partners encourage in the entire team.
For the good of the profession
In 2002, Louis Gatto became one of the Co-founders of VetPartners, a non-profit association dedicated to helping veterinarians maximize the potential of their business. The organization brings together consultants from a broad range of business disciplines to help guide and advise practitioners in the veterinarian industry, believing that better practices, result in better care for the animals.
Over the years, both Lou and Tom have been invited to sit on various committees for the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. The SCVMA is the Nation’s largest regional veterinary medical association, supporting veterinarians with the tools and resources they need to be successful.
Over the years, both Lou and Tom have been invited to sit on various committees for the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. The SCVMA is the Nation’s largest regional veterinary medical association, supporting veterinarians with the tools and resources they need to be successful.
Speaking Engagements & Mentorship
As active members of the educational community, both Lou and Tom have been invited to share their knowledge at various industry events including the Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) and the Pacific Veterinary Conference.
Lou Gatto also acts as a mentor to current veterinary students through programs such as the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) and Nationwide’s Veterinary Student Externs.
Volunteer Work
Gatto McFerson is a strong supporter of the local community. We actively sponsor educational and art programs in our neighborhood. Of course, we also have a special place in our hearts for animal rescue groups and make supporting these local organizations a priority. We offer help with everything from preparing tax returns to assisting with operations to actively participating as board members.
Volunteer Work
Gatto McFerson is a strong supporter of the local community. We actively sponsor educational and art programs in our neighborhood. Of course, we also have a special place in our hearts for animal rescue groups and make supporting these local organizations a priority. We offer help with everything from preparing tax returns to assisting with operations to actively participating as board members.