3 Trends to Watch in the Veterinary Industry

Every businessperson needs to be aware of the trends in his or her field. Trends in the veterinary industry may not replace the basics of animal care, but they can increase interest in your practice and provide an additional revenue stream. Following a trend is not the same as chasing a fad. Trends indicate forward movement, an opportunity to approach familiar concepts with fresh eyes. In the case of veterinary care, trends must benefit the animals and humans who rely on your professionalism to keep their pets healthy. Three of the latest trends in veterinary medicine, technology, stem cell research, and pain management, do just that.
Wearable Technology
Technology has changed nearly every industry on earth. Many advances in medicine, including veterinary medicine, could not even have been dreamed of before the digital age. Digital X-ray and dental radiograph machines, specialized computer software, and even ultrasound technology have widened the scope of how veterinarians can care for animals. But interest in wearable technology that can measure and monitor pet health is on the rise. Wearables may assist vets in diagnosing and treating companion animals more efficiently as well as helping farmers stay informed about their livestock. The availability of wearable technology is a wide-open opportunity for veterinary clinics to increase sales and optimize services.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy has been improving the lives of human patients for years, and now stem cells are helping veterinary patients too. A majority of the current information about the benefits of stem cell therapy in animals is anecdotal and comes from the observations of pet owners whose animal companions have undergone treatment. However, a growing amount of laboratory data supports the thesis that stem cell therapy can reduce inflammation and restore damaged tissue, especially the regenerations of ligaments, tendons and joint tissues. Veterinarians interested in stem cell therapy should strike a balance between reliance on strictly science-based data and subjective data.
Pain Management
Advances in vet care and improved diets have helped lengthen the average lifespan of some pets. With age, comes more aches and pains. Today’s pet-owner has a higher expectation for their furry friend’s quality of life. An emphasis on veterinary medicine that alleviates pain is a trend that may eventually become mainstream in most offices. Medication, laser therapy, and physical therapy are being used to relieve joint dysfunction, reduce healing time after a trauma or surgery and lessen general pain. Laser therapy, especially, is both effective in the treatment of pain and lucrative for the practitioner.
Has your practice incorporated one of these, or another cutting-edge advancement, into your services? Make sure to let your clients and potential clients know by including information, photos, or videos on your website detailing the service and the benefits it provides to their furry companions.