Alina Pavel, Scribenote, describes how the company's artificial intelligence-powered platform is designed to streamline and simplify documentation and workflow management in veterinary practices. 

Modernized Stress-Free Documentation in Veterinary Medicine with AI

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The demand for veterinary care has increased rapidly in recent years, due to a combination of pet population growth and a global shortage of veterinarians. In 2022, workplace burnout was estimated to cost the industry $2 billion

—not particularly surprising, when considering the most common issues veterinarians face are ‘lack of resources and support’ (73%) and ‘not enough time and energy’ (72%).

The question, then, is this—what approaches can be taken to mitigate these challenges? The most promising tool lies in the rapidly evolving field of veterinary technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Through new technologies and improvements to time-tested and traditional solutions, there are greater opportunities to help predict, prevent, diagnose, and treat animal illness more quickly, accurately, and safely.

Additionally, technology can help lighten staff workloads and improve workflows for greater efficiency and reduced stress. However, there can be a reluctance to adopt newer technologies; industry surveys have revealed that reliability and accuracy are areas of particular concern.

To address these, it’s crucial to foster understanding and support through case studies, comprehensive training, and positive personal experiences.

A pivotal aspect of a patient workup is the application of techniques and tools to identify diseases and conditions in animals—and doing so as efficiently as possible. While existing methods we rely on are valuable, they can lack the speed and precision needed in today’s fast-paced environment. External laboratory turnaround times can range from several hours to days or weeks, depending on the test and lab capacity. What’s more, any error with the sample can lengthen the overall decision-making process, further delaying the time to treatment. The rise of in-clinic diagnostics, such as point-of-care and screening tests, represents a faster, more convenient approach.

 and with greater detail, empowering veterinarians to identify new disease risk factors. As such, treatment decisions are reached more quickly and efficiently, leading to improved outcomes, better patient care, more valuable time with pet owners, and better workload management.

Through meaningful innovation, Zoetis is transforming the way veterinarians receive, analyze and interpret diagnostic tests with a portfolio of automated and connected technologies. Marrying diagnostics with AI, analyzers include Vetscan Imagyst®, offering 6-in-1 diagnostics on a single platform, including AI-powered Blood Smear, Fecal, Dermatology, Equine Fecal and Urine Sediment, as well as a Digital Cytology capability. The compact analyzer represents an opportunity to increase efficiency, improve workflow and elevate patient care. Studies demonstrate that Vetscan Imagyst performs at a similar level to board-certified specialist clinical pathologists and expert parasitologists.

An addition to its extensive veterinary diagnostics portfolio, and sitting alongside the Vetscan® HM5, Zoetis will officially launch the world’s first cartridge-based AI-powered hematology analyzer for automated complete blood count (CBC) analysis, Vetscan OptiCell™, at VMX in January 2025. 

Machine learning: superficial, deep, supervised, unsupervised?

AI technology has long been harnessed by the veterinary industry. As the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) outlines,

 AI algorithms are used to detect, delineate or classify certain features in radiographs, ultrasounds and CT and MRI images. Within the US, almost 40% of veterinarians report using AI tools to supplement their practice;

 most common applications currently include imaging, radiology, record keeping and administrative tasks.

The scope of AI technology is rapidly evolving, with multiple models available to users. At its core, AI involves the creation of systems and algorithms capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. In the context of veterinary diagnostics, the methods used include machine learning, deep learning, supervised learning, and unsupervised learning.

Machine learning involves identifying patterns and analyzing data. Learning from a data set, it then applies this information to a task (i.e., makes a prediction).

 Falling under this category is superficial learning, utilizing algorithms that can only evaluate data for a limited number of features. A separate subdivision of machine learning is deep learning, involving more complex architecture of artificial neurons and neural networks to make connections within provided data.

Turning to supervised learning, where algorithms in machine learning use data that is pre-labeled during training; the algorithm then uses this training to apply it to other data sets for classification and organization. With unsupervised learning, AI finds patterns within mainly unlabeled data, requiring the technology to work more independently to discover the labels for the information.

As new devices and software are introduced to the industry, it is vital to have greater understanding of the rigorous algorithm validation process involved, so veterinarians can understand the technology and techniques available to them and their patients. A trusted, established manufacturer committed to sharing the thorough training behind their products can assuage reservations.

In the case of Vetscan Imagyst, to develop algorithms that can comprehensively and accurately identify and classify samples, Zoetis utilizes deep learning AI; in this specific example, a convolutional deep neural network is used. Each sample slide undergoes layers of precisely trained neuro inputs, for finely tuned feature identification and recognition. 

How was this object detection algorithm trained? Thousands of samples and elements were identified by board-certified clinical pathologists and parasitology experts. It has been said that the deep learning nature of the specific algorithm utilized in this example will allow for improved performance and functionality over time

; in addition, with results provided within minutes, valuable time is freed up. Zoetis also offers add-on pathologist* review when needed.

When paired with AI, advanced point-of-care testing and analysis can deliver high quality, connected insights and results to clinics. The new Vetscan OptiCell features innovative AI-powered cell classification technology and a cartridge-based design for reference lab quality CBC results.

OptiCell utilizes sophisticated AI-trained algorithms trained with normal and abnormal clinical samples, then tested and validated to reliably classify and count blood cells instantly, based on hundreds of individual cell features (i.e., cytoplasm area, color, granularity, nuclei color and shape).

Results from this hematology analyzer can be paired with AI Blood Smear (Vetscan Imagyst) for a complete hematology picture. If additional expertise is required, the veterinarian can select add-on expert review for a clinical pathologist report within hours of submission.

Almost half of practices worldwide have reported an increase in caseloads,

 and with more animals requiring care, there is less available time per appointment. Time-poor veterinary teams need solutions today that can improve clinic workflows and provide individualized patient care.

The care currently offered in contemporary clinics is only possible due to previous technological innovations. More recent offerings, including smart diagnoses and AI, have proved their worth to the industry; solutions that bring together these two elements—such as those available in Zoetis’ diagnostic suite—are vital to the modern veterinary practitioner. Expanding on such a portfolio only allows for an even greater and more efficient way of working; the introduction of CBC analyzer Vetscan OptiCell is yet another example of the support offered to veterinarians.

Richard E Goldstein DVM, DACVIM, DECVIM-CA

 is the Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer Global Diagnostics at Zoetis, and a multi award-winning veterinarian specializing in small animal internal medicine with 12 years’ experience as a Professor at Cornell University.

Neill CL, Hansen CR, Salois M. The economic cost of burnout in veterinary medicine. 

. 2022;9:814104. doi:10.3389/fvets.2022.814104

Technology helps veterinarians beat burnout and retain staff, survey says. Talkatoo. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://talkatoo.com/blog/technology-helps-vets-beat-burnout/

Nolen RS. Artificial intelligence poised to transform veterinary care. American Veterinary Medical Association. May 29, 2024. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://www.avma.org/news/artificialintelligence-poised-transform-veterinary-care

Global State of Pet Care: Stats, Facts and Trends. Health for Animals. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://www.healthforanimals.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Global-State-of-Pet-Care.pdf

Nagamori Y, Scimeca R, Hall-Sedlak R, et al. Multicenter evaluation of the Vetscan Imagyst system using Ocus 40 and EasyScan One scanners to detect gastrointestinal parasites in feces of dogs and cats. 

. 2024;36(1):32-40. doi:10.1177/10406387231216185

Data on file, Study No. D870R-US-21-045, 2021, Zoetis Inc.

Data on file. Study No. DHXMZ-US-23-218, Zoetis Inc.

Data on file, Study No. DHX6Z-US-23-222, 2023, Zoetis Inc.

Data on file, Study No. DHX6Z-US-22-166, 2022, Zoetis Inc.

Data on file, Study No. DHX6Z-US-22-131, 2022, Zoetis Inc.

Nagamori Y, Hall Sedlak R, DeRosa A, et al. Evaluation of the VETSCAN IMAGYST: an in-clinic canine and feline fecal parasite detection system integrated with a deep learning algorithm. 

. 2020;13(1):346. doi:10.1186/s13071-020-04215-x

Data on file, Study Report No. D870RUS-22-053.

Eleven technologies veterinary practices can adopt today. American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://www.avma.org/news/11-technologies-veterinary-practices-canadopt-today

Gupta M. Almost 40% of vets are using AI tools to gain a competitive edge. GlobalPETS. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://globalpetindustry.com/article/almost-40-of-vets-are-using-ai-tools-to-gaina-competitive-edge

Owens A, Vinkemeier D, Elsheikha H. A review of applications of artificial intelligence in veterinary medicine. 

. 2023;28(6):78-85. doi:10.12968/coan.2022.0028a

Bast J. How artificial intelligence is changing veterinary medicine. Zoetis. December 6, 2023. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://www.zoetisus.com/petcare/blog/how-artificial-intelligence-ischanging-veterinary-medicine

Burke J. Where did AI come from and how can we use it in vet med? 

. October 13, 2023. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://www.dvm360.com/view/where-did-ai-come-from-and-how-canwe-use-it-in-vet-med-

Data on file, Study No. DHXMZ-US-24-235, Zoetis Inc.

Articles

Vetscan OptiCell™ utilizes sophisticated AI algorithms trained with normal and abnormal clinical samples, then tested and validated to reliably classify and count blood cells instantly, based on hundreds of individual cell features.

Beyond the microscope: what’s behind veterinary technology?

The Danish-Swedish farmdog is being fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as the purebred dog registry’s 202nd breed. The designation earns the farmdog eligibility to compete in the Working Group at more than 26,000 AKC events held annually.

According to the Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club of America, the newly recognized breed was previously known as the Danish Pinscher. It was found primarily on farms in Denmark and southern Sweden. It once faced extinction and was saved in 1987 by Danish and Swedish kennel clubs.

In the United States, an unspecified population of purebred canines in a given breed must be geographically distributed throughout the country with an active following and interest by owners to be eligible for AKC recognition. Additionally, club devoted to the breed with responsible owners and breeders must be established for eligibility. While advocates work towards full recognition, breeds are first recorded in the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service (FSS) program, which provides support to fanciers of rare breeds.

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club of America was formed and incorporated in 2006 with 33 members. The first specialty event for the breed was held later the same year.

 The breed was accepted into the FSS program in 2011 and moved to the AKC’s Miscellaneous Group a decade later, where it spent the past 4 years.

Gina DiNardo, executive secretary for the AKC, noted the organization is excited to have the farmdog in the AKC’s registry as a Working Group breed. “This compact working dog is very versatile, loves a challenge and having a job to do. It would make a wonderful addition to a family that is able to provide it with the exercise and mental stimulation that it needs. As always, we strongly encourage prospective dog owners to do their research to find the best breed for their lifestyle,” DiNardo said in a news release.

The Danish-Swedish farmdog is known as a people-oriented, loving companion. These canines require exercise and perform jobs with vermin control a specialty.

 According to the AKC release, “these compact dogs are versatile, love to work and enjoy a challenge. They are coordinated, agile and very fast.”

Sometimes mistaken for terriers, Danish-Swedish farmdogs are more rectangular in shape. Additionally, this breed is low maintenance in grooming habits, requiring only occasional baths and brushing.

Rice J. The American Kennel Club welcomes the Danish-Swedish farmdog to the pack. News release. American Kennel Club. January 2, 2024. Accessed January 3, 2024. 

https://www.akc.org/press-releases/american-kennel-club-welcomes-danish-swedish-farmdog-pack/

Welcome to the wonderful world of the Danish-Swedish farmdog. Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club of America Inc. Accessed January 3, 2024. 

American Kennel Club. Accessed January 3, 2024. 

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/akc-foundation-stock-service/

DSFCA history. Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club of America Inc. Accessed January 3, 2024. 

https://dsfca.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=459025&module_id=401200

Assigned to the Working Group, the designation allows the breed to compete in AKC events. 

Canine breed is newly recognized by the American Kennel Club

Christopher Shapley, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CVFT, explains what veterinary acupuncture is and why it’s useful

The benefits of veterinary acupuncture

How exactly does veterinary acupuncture work? Last month, Christopher Shapley, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CVFT, sat down with 

 to discuss his lecture on acupuncture presented at the Fetch 

 conference in Long Beach, California. In the interview, Shapley talked about what acupuncture is, as well as what its benefits are; pattern diagnosis; and how long the practice has been around for.

Below is a partial transcript. It has been lightly edited for clarity.

Christopher Shapley, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CVFT: 

So these are mapped out points that have been used for 1000s of years on people, a few 100 years on companion animals, and a couple 1000 years, actually on horses and oxen. There are a lot of studies showing that what it does is it targets the body or tells the body where to heal itself. So, it reduces inflammation, it reduces pain, it releases endogenous steroids in the body to reduce inflammation. It also releases like feel good hormones, like endorphins; and it obviously increases blood flow to the area and to the region. 

So basically, what I always tell my clients and other veterinarians that aren't familiar with acupuncture and using it to treat pain is, ‘I'm just telling the body where to focus its attention on healing,’ and I feel like that's the easiest way to describe it.

Christopher Shapley, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CVFT, explains what veterinary acupuncture is, and why it’s useful

Advancing statutory regulation of veterinary nurses and technologists

The Regulation of Veterinary Nurses and Technologists (RVNT) Working Party was established in August 2024 by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC) and the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia (VNCA), to advance statutory regulation of veterinary nurses and technologists across all Australian jurisdictions.

“The RVNT Working Party is making significant strides in its mission to advance statutory regulation across all Australian jurisdictions. Established to ensure professional standards, the RVNT Working Party has continued to gather industry insights and advocate for a cohesive regulatory framework that supports veterinary nurses, technologists, and the broader veterinary profession,” said Jane Bindloss, RVN (UK), DipMgt, chair of the RVNT Working Party, to 

“Through statutory regulation, the Working Party seeks to support accessible, sustainable, and resilient professions that meet the evolving demands and standards expected of the veterinary workforce in Australia.”

Bindloss explained that with the veterinary sector facing growing workforce challenges, the regulation of veterinary nurses and technologists represents an opportunity to fully integrate and utilize skilled professionals within recognized and consistent national legal frameworks.

“Statutory regulation is not only vital for improving standards of care but also crucial for supporting economic resilience in emergency animal disease response efforts, where trained and registered professionals play a central role,” said Bindloss.

“Since our first meeting in August last year, we’ve undertaken several key actions including reviewing current practices around registration and regulation across Australia and internationally, aiming to identify best practices that can be adapted for local implementation. The group has also researched both veterinary and allied human health models.”

RVNT Working Party meeting in August 2024 (Image courtesy of Australasian Veterinary Boards Council)

A critical priority for the RVNT Working Party was confirming clear terminology and definitions for veterinary nurses and technologists.

“A veterinary nurse holds a minimum Certificate IV in veterinary nursing, while a veterinary technologist has completed a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. We’ve also undertaken regular consultation with veterinary and veterinary nursing associations, veterinary surgeons boards, and practitioners to align on the benefits of statutory registration, from enhanced workforce sustainability to improved animal welfare outcomes,” explained Bindloss.

“The Working Party is also in the process of finalizing a set of recommendations that will provide a roadmap for implementing statutory regulation, addressing critical areas such as public protection, professional accountability, scope of practice and workforce support.”

In addition to Bindloss, the members of the RVNT Working Party include representatives from across the veterinary sector, with Susan Keane, MVB, MANZCVS; Patricia Clarke BVSc, PhD; Jennifer Hamlin BSc, RVN, RVT; Sue Godkin, BSc, BVMS; Gary Fitzgerald, BASc; Graham Pratt, MEc; Jasmine Pengelly, RVN; and Esther Callcott, Cert IV, VN, BMedSc (Hons), PhD.

“The RVNT Working Party will continue to refine its recommendations in the coming months, working closely with government and industry stakeholders. We are committed to keeping the veterinary community informed and welcome feedback from all practitioners who are invested in the advancement of our profession,” Bindloss concluded.

AMR Vet Collective's new learning modules

The AMR Vet Collective plans to release new antimicrobial stewardship learning resources after it partnered with a number of industries to develop species-specific modules in 2025. The AMR Vet Collective's mission is to translate the science around antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial stewardship into meaningful and practical information that veterinarians can call upon to make informed, evidence-based decisions in daily veterinary practice.

“We’re excited to be shortly releasing a new set of case studies, which will have a focus on feedlot production – both beef and sheep, supported by Animal Health Australia. Soon after that a new set of resources and guidelines will be released for wildlife, focusing on wildlife care for general practitioners, and including resources aimed at wildlife carers,” explained Jane Heller, BSc, BVSc, MVetClinStud, PhD, MANZCVS, a founding member of the AMR Vet Collective, to 

“These resources have been in development with input from some incredible wildlife experts across Australia, and are made possible through funding support from Wildlife Health Australia,” she continued.

The AMR Vet Collective website already has an array of learning resources for veterinary professionals, and the new content will complement existing learning modules which cover dogs, cats, sheep, poultry, and cattle.

“We are really looking forward to expanding our content to allow specific and detailed information for individual species. Longer term, 2 full modules are in development. One, funded by AgriFutures, is an equine-specific module, with sections on foals, reproduction, medicine and surgery,” said Heller.

“The other, funded by Australian Pork Limited, is a pig-specific module, with content applicable to veterinarians working with backyard and commercial herds. For all veterinary professionals, remember to continue to follow us on social media to ensure that you are made aware of the release dates of the new material.”

Updates on the group working to advance the statutory regulation across all Australian jurisdictions of veterinary nurses and technologists, and new antimicrobial stewardship learning resources 

Veterinary scene down under: New antimicrobial stewardship learning resources, plus progressing veterinary nurse and technologist regulations

Craig A Clifford, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), talks about the general practitioner’s role in the care for patients with cancer

Cancer care in the primary practice

, Craig A Clifford, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), talked about his lecture “Veterinary Oncology: What Can I Do in the Primary Care Setting?” presented at the Fetch dvm360 conference in 

In the interview, Clifford outlined what he discussed in his lecture, explaining that primary care veterinarians, not just specialists, can perform certain diagnostics and provide treatment for cancers in animal patients.

Craig A Clifford, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology): 

…the focus of this lecture is that, you know, for many years—too many years, I would say, looking back—you know, I focused a lot of my lectures on…what I can be doing cancer-wise, and why a primary care doctor should be sending me the case and how I can help. And then it really hit me, maybe about 5 years ago that was incredibly self-serving. So I've really modified the way I do my lectures, and I've really rotated everything around to being more ‘what are the things that can be done in the primary care setting?’ and focusing more on what the primary care doctor can be doing for cancer patients, not just where my role is.

We're going to talk about diagnostics that primary care doctors should be doing in their clinic. You know, oftentimes we've gotten to the point we view test as either a primary care test or a specialty test, and that's not really the case. These are veterinary tests. So we're going to talk about the idea of doing immunophenotyping for dogs with lymphoma, large cell lymphoma, and why that's important, and why that should be done in the primary care setting. It doesn't have to be done with the specialists.