#United States #San Diego #Pet Health #Veterinary Care #PetDesk

Growing Demand for Digital Solutions in Veterinary Care

As we look towards 2025, the landscape of veterinary care is changing significantly, driven by technology and the evolving expectations of pet parents. A recent study conducted by PetDesk in collaboration with London Research sheds light on the increasing reliance on digital solutions in veterinary services. The findings, based on a survey of 1,000 pet owners across North America, reveal that nearly one-third of pet parents are considering switching their veterinary clinics this year.

Key Insights from the Pet Parent Research Report

This report emphasizes a crucial gap between the expectations of pet owners and the current offerings of veterinary practices, particularly regarding digital engagement. Here are some of the most significant findings from the report:

• - Booking Difficulties: A staggering 57% of pet parents have reported challenges when booking appointments with their veterinary clinics.
• - Communication Gaps: Despite 87% of respondents acknowledging the importance of reminders for appointments and vaccinations, 42% reveal that they currently do not receive any reminders from their clinics.
• - Preference for Digital Solutions: The study shows that 78% of pet owners consider it vital to have the ability to book appointments on any device at any time.
• - Likelihood to Switch Clinics: Some 31% of those surveyed indicated a likelihood to switch clinics, a figure that rises to 40% among younger pet owners, showing a distinct trend among demographics that prioritize technological convenience.

Michael Freeman, Chief Marketing Officer at PetDesk, notes, "Pet parents are increasingly expecting a seamless, digital-first experience from their veterinary providers, akin to the ease they find in other areas of their lives. Clinics that fall behind in implementing automated reminders, online booking systems, and texting options risk losing clients to more innovative competitors."

Implications for Veterinary Practices

The implications of these findings are considerable, especially for veterinary clinics that have not yet adapted to this evolving landscape. With a moderate 4% decline in pet spending reported for 2024, the pressure is on clinics to enhance their service delivery. The ability to connect digitally with pet parents has now become not just a luxury but a necessity.

Survey participants ranked the importance of various aspects of their interactions with veterinary clinics:

• - Reminders: 87% emphasized the necessity of timely reminders for appointments and vaccinations.
• - Access to Health Records: 83% prioritized the ease of accessing and sharing their pets' health records.
• - Convenient Booking: 78% expressed the desire to book appointments seamlessly on any device, day or night.
• - Communication Options: 77% found it essential to communicate with the clinic via text or online chat.

Conclusion

As pet ownership continues to grow, the veterinary industry must embrace the changes brought by technology. The Pet Parent Research Report serves as a wake-up call for clinics to reassess their digital engagement strategies and implement user-friendly solutions. By aligning their offerings with the expectations of tech-savvy pet parents, veterinary practices can ensure client retention and bolster their competitive edge. The time for change is now, and those who adapt will thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of pet healthcare.

To delve deeper into the findings, the full report is now available for download. Stay ahead of the curve by understanding what pet parents want and how your clinic can meet those needs.