How a Chicago Veterinarian Built a Mobile Practice Using Relief Work

After burning out in corporate life, Dr. Tom Vega turned to gig-economy relief shifts to bankroll his own mobile veterinary business. By working 18 consecutive shifts to secure seed capital, he bypassed traditional loan barriers, launching Concierge Companions Vet Med, which is now on track for $300,000 in annual revenue.

Dr. Vega’s transition from a corporate background in telecommunications to veterinary medicine was fueled by a desire for autonomy. Facing a industry-standard two-year wait for business loans, he leveraged Roo, a platform for veterinary relief work, to generate the necessary cash flow. In August 2025 alone, he earned $23,000 through back-to-back shifts, providing the liquidity needed to launch his mobile unit in October 2025. With a lean operating model—featuring minimal staff, low inventory overhead, and optimized travel routes—the practice has already secured 88 active, recurring clients.

Strategic pivots have been central to the business’s growth. While initially targeting younger pet owners, Vega found his most consistent demand among the senior population. He now partners directly with senior living facilities to cluster appointments, reducing travel time and maximizing efficiency. This path is set to evolve further in July with the introduction of a concierge retainer model, allowing clients to access digital consultations and scheduled care. For Vega, the goal is sustainable expansion, with plans to eventually build a fleet of mobile units while mentoring other veterinarians to pursue independent practice.