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Charting Covetrus Retirement Success: Five Essential Reads

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Healthcare Provider Update: Provides health insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, and FSAs, with flexible work arrangements and wellness support 2. With ACA costs projected to increase by 1518%, Covetruss employer-sponsored coverage offers a more stable and affordable alternative for employees and their families. Click here to learn more

“By integrating disciplined market strategies, proactive healthspan practices, and a clear sense of purpose, Covetrus employees can create a retirement plan resilient enough to weather uncertainty and enrich their post-career life” – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

“Covetrus employees who blend disciplined saving approaches with proactive healthspan management are poised to achieve both financial confidence and improved well-being” – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

  1. The challenges of market volatility, rising health care costs, and potential entitlement changes on retirement planning.

  2. Five must-read books offering strategies on investing, longevity, benefit planning, and lifestyle alignment.

  3. How to integrate financial discipline, healthspan management, and purposeful living for a fulfilling retirement.

For those who are saving for the future, these are uncertain times. Concerns about whether current nest egg tactics will be adequate have increased due to volatile markets, growing health care expenses, and continuous talks about possible reductions to government entitlements. Twenty-five percent of adults with retirement savings have only saved one year’s worth of their current income for the years ahead, according to research by Northwestern Mutual. 1

The financial or lifestyle planning book is one tool that is frequently overlooked during times of market volatility. In addition to providing timeless truths, a well-chosen title can offer readers practical advice, serve as a reminder of important ideas, and present fresh approaches to decision-making. Senior advisors at Wealth Enhancement—Patrick Ray, Tyson Mavar, and Brent Wolf—have chosen the following five books to aid Covetrus professionals in navigating the current environment because of their blend of academic rigor and usefulness.

Mastering the Market Cycle  by Howard Marks explores the psychological factors that influence cyclical changes in asset values. According to Marks, investor sentiment—which fluctuates between excitement and fear—often determines the timing and size of market movements, even when underlying value is important. “Fear can take over; it’s to be expected during the lifetime of any long-term investor,” says Brent Wolf. Long-term objectives can be safeguarded by knowing when and why to rebalance or de-risk a portfolio, even though market timing is still difficult to anticipate. Covetrus employees can benefit from the clear distinction this book makes between purely emotional reactions and strategic adjustments, essential for remaining disciplined when prices change.

Winning the Loser’s Game  by Charles D. Ellis is sometimes written off as outdated, but it still holds valuable lessons. Tyson Mavar praises it as an “unsung classic,” highlighting how it reinforces core investing principles that have stood the test of time. Ellis promotes long-term dedication, diversification, and steering clear of expensive practices like market timing. His strongest endorsement is for passive investing with inexpensive index funds, which can shield investors from transient noise. For Covetrus staff seeking to focus on techniques that boost compounding power and lessen the drag of fees and emotional trading, this book offers a timeless roadmap.

Outlive: The Art and Science of Living a Long Life  by Dr. Peter Attia and Bill Gifford reminds readers that physical health directly impacts retirement readiness. “What good is a healthy portfolio if your body can’t keep up?” asks Patrick Ray. Drawing on clinical data and epidemiological studies, the authors provide evidence-based suggestions for increasing lifespan and healthspan—strength training, mobility exercises, optimal sleep, and targeted nutrition. Actionable procedures for evaluating metabolic health, increasing muscle resilience, and reducing chronic disease risk can help Covetrus team members better match longevity forecasts with retirement funding plans and lower the likelihood of incapacitating health events.

Cookin’ Up Your Retirement Plan  by Marcia MacDonald Mantell approaches Medicare and Social Security elections in a conversational, kitchen-table manner. Tyson Mavar also recommends her sequels— What’s the Deal With Women’s Social Security?  and  Developing Your Medicare Recipe —for anyone seeking guidance on making the most of benefits. Mantell breaks down complex regulations into manageable chunks, reducing the possibility of costly errors. While these books don’t directly address market volatility, they reinforce that successful retirement from companies like Covetrus depends on more than just investment returns; it also requires well-informed decisions and careful lifestyle alignment.

The Good Life  by Dr. Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz shifts the emphasis from balance sheets to life satisfaction. Based on an 80-year Harvard study of adult development, it finds that strong connections, meaningful hobbies, and community involvement often indicate long-term happiness more powerfully than financial prosperity. According to Patrick Ray, this book serves as an essential reminder for Covetrus retirees that money is just one component of a fulfilling retirement. Cultivating purpose, social ties, and enriching interests can yield non-linear returns unmatched by any portfolio.

When combined, these five books offer complementary perspectives on investment methodology, market behavior, healthspan management, and the socioeconomic factors influencing retirement decision-making. Each title has been recommended by seasoned advisors who have guided clients through both bull and bear markets, offering Covetrus employees lessons on purpose, cost-effective investing, preventive health care, efficient benefit management, and emotional discipline.

And here's one bonus publication: With more than 1.5 million copies in circulation, Morgan Housel’s  The Psychology of Money  was placed #1 on BookWeb’s Indie Personal Finance Bestseller List in April 2025, reflecting growing demand for behavior-focused investment insights that supplement conventional planning techniques.

Discover five highly regarded retirement planning books that provide professional insights on market cycles, passive index fund strategies, longevity optimization, Social Security elections, and Medicare planning—equipping Covetrus pre-retirees and retirees with tried-and-true advice for long-term retirement resilience and portfolio fortitude.

Consider the process of preparing a solid ocean vessel for a long journey: understanding the market cycle gives you the compass you need to navigate choppy waters;  Winning the Loser’s Game  supplies the provisions and medical kit to endure the journey;  Outlive  strengthens the hull against health risks;  Cookin’ Up Your Retirement Plan  equips your lifeboats with Social Security and Medicare expertise; and  The Good Life  charts rewarding ports of call—helping you sail comfortably through both calm seas and storms for Covetrus professionals.

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Sources:

1. Northwestern Mutual.  Planning & Progress Study 2025 . 14 Apr. 2025, pp. 1–2.

Other Resources:

1. Baker, Brian F. “ Principles of Investing .”  Marriott Alumni Magazine , BYU Marriott School, June 2025, pp. 9–10.

2. Kennedy, Robert. “ 2024 Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate .”  Fidelity Investments , 8 Aug. 2024, pp. 1–2.

3. LeValley, Donna. “ Five Changes to Social Security in 2025 .”  Kiplinger , 3 Jan. 2025, pp. 1–2.

What type of retirement plan does Covetrus offer to its employees?

Covetrus offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Can employees of Covetrus contribute to their 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees of Covetrus can make contributions to their 401(k) plan through payroll deductions.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Covetrus employees under the 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Covetrus employees under the 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually. Employees should check the current limits for the specific year.

Does Covetrus match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Covetrus offers a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain conditions.

When does Covetrus start matching employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Covetrus typically starts matching employee contributions after the employee has completed a certain period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.

How can Covetrus employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Covetrus employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's designated benefits portal.

What investment options are available in Covetrus' 401(k) plan?

Covetrus offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can Covetrus employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Covetrus employees can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for Covetrus' 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Covetrus has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.

How can Covetrus employees access their 401(k) account information?

Covetrus employees can access their 401(k) account information through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Covetrus offers its employees both a 401(k) plan and a pension plan, designed to help them prepare for retirement. For the 401(k) plan, employees are eligible to participate after one year of service. Covetrus provides a company match, which becomes available once the employee has completed their first year. The 401(k) plan is designed to align with Covetrus's commitment to employee well-being and financial health. Regarding the pension plan, Covetrus uses a Defined Benefit plan structure. The eligibility for this plan typically includes a combination of years of service and age, though specific details about the formula or exact qualifications were not readily available. The name of the pension plan and more detailed information about the pension formula are typically found in the company’s official documents or annual reports.
Restructuring and Layoffs: Covetrus has undergone significant restructuring, leading to layoffs as part of consolidating its North American operations. The company laid off 80 employees across various U.S. locations. This restructuring aims to streamline operations, reduce role duplication, and enhance customer service for veterinary practices. Additionally, Covetrus has completed its separation from former parent company Henry Schein, which included exiting transitional service agreements. Pension and 401(k) Changes: With ongoing economic shifts, adjustments in 401(k) contribution limits for 2024 have been announced. These changes include an increase in the contribution limit to $23,000 and catch-up contributions for those aged 50 and over, allowing them to contribute up to $30,500. These pension adjustments are aligned with the SECURE Act 2.0, impacting Covetrus employees and others participating in these plans.
For Covetrus, employee stock options (SOs) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are critical components of their compensation packages, especially designed to attract and retain top talent within the organization. Covetrus offers both Non-Qualified Stock Options (NQSOs) and Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) as part of their stock option program. NQSOs are available to employees at all levels, offering the right to purchase Covetrus stock at a predetermined price, typically below market value, after meeting specific vesting periods. ISOs are usually reserved for top executives and offer favorable tax treatment compared to NQSOs. Regarding RSUs, Covetrus grants these units primarily to senior leadership and critical employees. RSUs represent a commitment by Covetrus to award shares of its stock at a future date, contingent upon the employee meeting certain performance milestones or continued employment. RSUs typically vest over a set period, such as three to five years, promoting long-term retention. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Covetrus continued to emphasize these equity compensation tools as part of their overall strategy to enhance employee engagement and align their workforce with shareholder interests. Eligibility for stock options and RSUs at Covetrus is generally based on job level and performance, with the company ensuring that key contributors are rewarded with these equity incentives.
Covetrus offers a comprehensive suite of health benefits to its employees, focusing on various options that cater to different needs. For the years 2022 through 2024, Covetrus provided standard health insurance, dental and vision insurance, and options for both Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). These plans are designed to support a wide range of healthcare needs, from routine check-ups to more extensive medical procedures. Additionally, Covetrus includes life insurance and disability coverage in their benefits package, ensuring that employees have access to critical support in case of unforeseen circumstances. The company also emphasizes wellness programs, offering initiatives to promote healthier lifestyles among its workforce. A significant aspect of Covetrus's health benefits is their commitment to flexibility. Employees have options for different levels of coverage depending on their personal or family needs. The use of wellness incentives, such as gym memberships or health coaching, is encouraged to maintain a balanced work-life integration.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Covetrus at 7 Custom House St. Portland, ME 4101; or by calling them at 888-280-2221.

https://www.mainebiz.biz/article/covetrus-lays-off-some-employees-in-restructuring https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-limit-increases-to-23000-for-2024-ira-limit-rises-to-7000 https://kpmg.com/us/en/home/insights/2023/11/tnf-notice-2023-75-pension-plans-cost-of-living-adjustments-2024.html https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1nOXYbmq https://www.dol.gov/ https://www.investopedia.com/ https://www.trpcweb.com/ https://www.emparion.com/ https://www.annualreports.com/Company/covetrus-inc https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/51113-89 https://covetrus.com/covetrus-announces-financial-results-for-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-of-2021/ https://builtin.com/company/covetrus/benefits https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2024/05/20/understanding-net-unrealized-appreciation/ https://fortunefinancialadvisors.com/business-retirement-plans/planning-details-for-nua-a-tax-saving-strategy/ https://www.irs.gov/ https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/rising-interest-rates-change-pensions-for-some-retirees https://www.cdr-inc.com/ https://www.lincolninternational.com/ https://www.mainebiz.biz/article/covetrus-lays-off-some-employees-in-restructuring https://thebirdbath.transistor.fm/episodes/covetrus-layoffs-dolittle-prize-fat-cats-and-upcoming-events https://www.annualreports.com/Company/covetrus-inc

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