A vet care logo

Nah, looks too much like the first one.

If you really want to keep that paw symbol, don't put it right in the middle of the word. Have it above for the sake of keeping things simple.

Drop the idea of putting the V that way. It brings nothing to the plate and disrupt the reading.

Spend some time looking for some really good looking professional fonts. I know it can be hard to find some, but it's a necessary hassle.

I guess it's part of the client's requirements, but the baseline "for that little bit extra" is crap. It's in no way related to their business and could be use with whatever type of client.

For your inspiration, I found you this: http://www.biz-logo.com/pre-designed-pet-logos.shtml

Basically, im catering to the requirements of the client , if I change it too much it will not be what they want, note this logo is for a competition. these are elements that the client likes, thing is when you find yourself designing a logo for a client if you design it to their requirements you are never going to recieve a good critique, hence why the client themself are not a graphic designer.

Maybe if you play with the type styles more. but professional fun fonts not standard kiddy fonts.