Meet Daniel Slaton

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daniel Slaton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daniel, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Our industry is being overwhelmed with corporate entities, which usually do not give the same compassion and care that a “mom and pop” shop do. Plus I started my own business before, and sold to corporate so I understand how the care changes. So I had a non compete for 5 years, so I told myself once that was up I would come back to my community and offer that “family owned” care the community deserves. There are a few in our area, but a lot of corporate have taken over so our community was definitely in need of the privately owned practice. Most people are like myself, and would rather support privately owned businesses instead of the big corporate ones. My other thought process starting another practice was to be closer to home, and spend more time with my wife and 3 kids. I do have the freedom to choose that, but being a business owner and a type A personality, it is hard to step away from the business and turn it off. I have gotten better over the years, but the business and staff, are always on my mind. So working for someone does have some benefits of just not thinking of work once you leave. A business owner doesn’t always have that luxury. It is definitely a trade off

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I really think our personal touch, family style practice sets us apart from the others. With a lot of corporate medicine out there, the community really loves the personal feel to our practice. We also take walk ins, which helps with what is going on in our industry. The waits for emergency facilities are ridiculous, so people appreciate being seen without an appointment. I learned from an early age and mentors that if you say no to people, they will go somewhere else, and that is business lost. Unfortunately that has stuck with me, and have become a serious people pleaser. I have a hard time saying no, because I just want to help the animals. They shouldn’t be punished for what is going on in our industry and workforce in general. Since Covid, our industry has had a serious shortage of vets and all staff, making it very hard to find staff. Covid burnt a lot people in the veterinary industry out. We were completely overwhelmed and really struggled to keep me people. This continues to be an issue, especially in California with the high cost of living. I really want people to understand that I am not doing this for the money or any financial gain, it really is about the care of animals. I do feel Slaton Veterinary Hospital provides the highest quality care at reasonable prices. We do not try to gauge people, and just want to be fair and help people and their pets. I truly love what I do, and even if I had Elon Musk money I would still practice veterinary medicine, I would just do it pro bono.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I really don’t want to tell too much about our community, so we don’t get an influx of people coming to our bubble. I would definitely go to Mastro’s for dinner. You definitely can’t go wrong there, and if you are a vegan then Joi Cafe is amazing for vegan options. Definitely have to take a trip to the Bu. Can’t come to our area without visiting Malibu and the great scenery at the beaches and quaint town. You might even see a celebrity or two there, if that is your thing. If time permits I would take them for a couple day to Catalina. I grew up on a sailboat and frequented all the Channel islands. Would definitely have to make trip out to the islands. I am a huge Laker and Dodger fan, so would definitely have to make an effort to go to one of those games depending on the season. To experience the energy at a Laker game, and serenity of Dodger Stadium. Of course have to get a Dodger Dog. If possible, go early so we can avoid the horrendous traffic. Definitely don’t want to show that side of Socal if possible. Lastly, would try to make it up to Mammoth or Lake Tahoe. Amazing beauty so close to our home town. The snow is amazing during the winter, and the pure beauty of nature is amazing during the summer. You really can’t go wrong. So many more places, but that would have to do if we have such a short time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There has been quite a few mentors over the years that have taught me a lot about veterinary medicine, but I would really like to shout out to my wife and parents. My wife has supported my decision to start the business, and has been an integral part in our success. Without her support and effort, we would not be as successful as we are. And I personally would probably not be in the position to start a business.
My parents have always been there to support me regardless of what I do. My dad has really helped with the business aspect, since they don’t teach us much in Vet school. He was especially integral in the first practice, and really gave me the knowledge to do it on my own. Luckily he and my mom are always available for questions and support, so I have a really good team to help me with all aspects of business and life in general.
My staff has also been, and continues to be, an important part of our success. They are the engine that keeps things moving here, and in these times it is very hard to find good staff. I love them all

Website: https://www.slatonvet.com

Instagram: @slatonvet

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Slaton-Veterinary-Hospital-100088866156306/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/slaton-veterinary-hospital-westlake-village

Image Credits
Dr. Slaton