1. Advancements in Veterinary Diagnostics

Veterinary diagnostics have exponentially improved over the last 25 years. The introduction of accessible advanced imaging tools, such as MRI, CT scans, and digital radiography, has improved veterinarians' ability to diagnose conditions accurately. Previously, many internal diseases were difficult to detect until they reached an advanced stage. Early diagnosis through these imaging techniques allows for timely intervention and tailored therapy.

More recently, innovation has occurred for point-of-care diagnostics in practices in the form a first-of-its-kind slide-free cytology and blood morphology analyzer. Not only does this slide-free workflow allow clinicians to have consistent, accurate, and efficient results without the time-consuming step of making sides, the technology behind this product brings unprecedented capabilities such as counting of platelets in clumps, differentiation of RBC agglutination from rouleaux in the same assessment as blood morphology, and automated counting of immature neutrophils.

2. The Rise of Preventive Medicine and Wellness Care

Another critical shift is the renewed emphasis on comprehensive preventive care, including diagnostics. Routine wellness exams, diagnostic screening, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental health have become cornerstones of modern pet care. The origins of veterinary medicine were centered around this concept, but preventive medicine sometimes took a back seat in exam rooms. A recent, more proactive approach, especially in companion animal medicine, has significantly reduced the incidence of preventable diseases.

For example, comprehensive VBD screening and heartworm prevention have become more widespread, resulting in a decrease in heartworm cases, as long as the medication is administered properly and at the right frequency. Additionally, widespread vaccinations against diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies are lowering fatal infections.

3. Breakthroughs in Veterinary Oncology

Cancer treatment for animals has also advanced, paralleling the progress seen in human oncology. Veterinary oncology now offers chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and personalized cancer treatments. Two groundbreaking developments have been the approvals of novel chemotherapeutics such as Tanovea (rabacfosadine), a drug designed for treating canine lymphoma, and targeted therapies including Palladia (toceranib), a small molecular inhibitor developed for the treatment of canine mast cell tumors, and Gilvetmab, the first immune checkpoint inhibitor developed to treat canine mast cell tumors and melanomas.

But before we can treat, we also need a diagnosis. Another critical advancement in veterinary oncology helps address this. A new diagnostic panel for early detection of lymphoma in canine patients uses multimodal bioanalytical techniques that can even distinguish between B- and T-cell disease.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in older dogs, with nearly 50% of dogs over 10 developing some form of the disease.¹ New diagnostic and treatment options can help improve the quality of life and extend survival times for patients.

4. Regenerative Medicine: Stem Cell Therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Regenerative medicine, which includes stem cell therapy and PRP treatments, has emerged for animals with arthritis, ligament injuries, and degenerative joint diseases. Stem cell therapy involves harvesting an animal's own stem cells, often from fat tissue. These cells are processed and injected into damaged joints or tissues to treat disease. Similarly, PRP therapy, which involves using a concentrated form of the pet's own platelets to promote healing, has become a popular treatment for ligament injuries, particularly in performance and working dogs.

5. The Expansion of Specialized and Corporate Veterinary Care

Twenty-five years ago, most veterinary clinics provided only general practice services. Today, specialized veterinary care is widely available, encompassing fields such as neurology, cardiology, dermatology, ophthalmology, surgery, and others. This expansion meets the increased demand for advanced pet care and the desire for similar levels of specialized medical attention as humans receive. In addition, there has been tremendous consolidation and corporatization, especially in the companion animal space.

6. The Growth of Telehealth in Veterinary Practice

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth became a vital tool, with virtual consultations allowing veterinarians to diagnose minor conditions, provide follow-up care, and educate pet owners without an in-person visit. According to the 2021 American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)/AVMA Telehealth Guidelines for Small Animal Practice, well-executed telehealth interactions will leave pet owners feeling valued and highly focused on their pets' well-being. Both of these outcomes can positively influence client loyalty and retention. Although in-person visits remain core to the industry, telehealth or teleconsultations can provide additional accessibility and convenience for pet owners. It's also important to note that not all states allow telehealth visits as a replacement for in-office visits.

7. Better Pain Management and Anesthesia Protocols

Pain management in veterinary medicine has become top of mind. Multimodal pain relief strategies, including NSAIDs, opioids, nerve blocks, monoclonal antibody therapy (such as Librela and Solensia), and acupuncture, have significantly improved the quality of life for pets undergoing surgery or suffering from chronic pain conditions.

Advancements in anesthesia monitoring and safety protocols have also reduced the risks associated with surgical procedures. Modern anesthesia practices include pre-anesthetic evaluations, precise dosing, reversible therapies, and real-time monitoring, reducing complication rates.

8. Pet Nutrition and the Rise of Specialized Diets

Understanding pet nutrition has evolved significantly, leading to breed-specific diets, prescription diets, and fresh food alternatives. Veterinary nutritionists now tailor diets to address obesity, kidney disease, diabetes, and food allergies.

Therapeutic diets for conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been shown to extend the lifespans of affected pets by up to two years compared to those on standard diets. Pet obesity is now addressed with personalized nutrition plans and weight management programs.

9. The Human-Animal Bond and Mental Health Awareness

Modern veterinary medicine has also been influenced by a deeper understanding of the emotional and mental health needs of pets and their owners. Veterinarians now prioritize fear-free veterinary visits, alleviating pet anxiety through stress-free handling techniques and positive reinforcement.

Additionally, research confirms the significant benefits of the human-animal bond on mental health. Pet ownership decreases stress, anxiety, and depression, resulting in enhanced emotional well-being for humans.

We have experienced remarkable advancements in our industry over the past 25 years. From cutting-edge diagnostics and regenerative medicine to specialized care and telehealth, these innovations have enhanced longevity and quality of life for animals worldwide. With ongoing research, technological breakthroughs, and a growing emphasis on preventive and personalized care, the possibilities for the next 25 years are endless.

References:

1. Vail DM, Thamm DH, Liptak J. Withrow and MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology, 6th Edition. London: Saunders. (2019)