PetDesk Data: How Pet Parents View and Value Technology in Veterinary Care in 2025

31% of pet owners tell us they're likely to change their veterinary clinic this year

SAN DIEGO, March 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new report by PetDesk and London Research reveals a growing demand for digital convenience in veterinary care. The Pet Parent Research Report highlights that 31% of pet parents are considering switching vets in the coming year, with younger and urban pet owners driving the trend.

The study, based on a survey of 1,000 North American pet parents, uncovers a service gap between what pet owners expect and what veterinary clinics currently offer in terms of digital engagement and communications options. The findings emphasize that adopting technology beyond the phone to engage with pet parents is no longer optional—it's a critical factor for client retention and practice success.

Key Findings:

• 57% of pet parents have experienced difficulty booking appointments at their vet clinic.
• 42% don't receive reminders for appointments or vaccines, despite 87% saying they feel this is an important aspect of customer service.
• 78% feel it's important to be able to book appointments at any time on any device.
• 31% are likely to switch clinics, rising to 40% among younger pet owners.

"Pet parents increasingly expect an easy, digital-first experience from their veterinary providers—just as they do in other aspects of their lives," said Michael Freeman, Chief Marketing Officer, at PetDesk. "Clinics that fail to adopt automated reminders, texting, and online booking risk losing clients to more tech-savvy competitors."

The research highlights that pet parents expect digital solutions for communicating with clinics, accessing pet health records, and booking appointments. Younger pet owners, in particular, prioritize convenience and efficiency, with a strong preference for mobile-friendly and self-service options.

What This Means for Vet Clinics

With pet spending declining 4% in 2024 despite recent growth in pet ownership levels, the report warns that clinics failing to adapt could lose clients to their competitors.

What Pet Parents Feel is Important When Interacting With Their Veterinary Clinic:

• 87% - getting useful reminders about appointments and vaccinations.
  
  
• 83% - ease of accessing or sharing their pets' health records.
  
  
• 78% - ability to book appointments anytime on any device.
  
  
• 77% - communicating with the clinic via text or online chat.

Download the Full Report

The Pet Parent Research Report is now available.

SOURCE PetDesk