The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in veterinary medicine is accelerating, but many practices are struggling to implement it effectively, a new survey reveals. Conducted by Digitail and administered by the American Animal Hospital Association, the 2026 State of AI in Veterinary Medicine report indicates that 83.7% of veterinary professionals surveyed have utilized AI tools or software at work, a sharp increase from 39.2% in 2024. The survey gathered responses from 1,730 veterinary professionals in the U.S. and Canada between July 27 and August 12, 2026.
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Despite this growth, many practices lack the foundational processes necessary for effective AI use. Among respondents involved in practice-level decisions, 47% reported their practice had no formal plan for AI integration. Furthermore, only 28% had designated someone responsible for supervising AI adoption. Almost one-third of participants cited a lack of essential support, including training, written guidelines, and evaluation processes for the technology.
To address these challenges, the report suggests four key strategies. Firstly, veterinary practices should appoint a person to oversee AI initiatives, ensuring someone is accountable for evaluating tools and providing direction to staff. This role could be filled by an existing team member to help maintain consistent practices across the board.
Secondly, establishing clear guidelines is crucial, especially regarding accuracy and data security. In the survey, 67% of respondents expressed concerns about AI reliability, while 59% worried about data privacy. By defining what information staff can share with AI tools and when AI-generated content should undergo human review, practices can mitigate risks associated with using AI.
Thirdly, choosing AI tools selectively is vital. Only 21% of respondents indicated that their practices formally evaluated AI tools for data handling and security. Practices should thoroughly assess tools based on their compatibility with existing systems and their performance post-implementation. Veterinary-specific validation is particularly important for diagnostic applications.
Lastly, improving workflows and providing comprehensive training for all staff members can enhance AI integration. About 65% of respondents noted that their practices introduced AI without making necessary workflow adjustments. Training should not only focus on veterinarians but also include administrative staff, as their roles increasingly involve AI in client communications and scheduling.
The survey also assessed AI maturity within practices, which correlates with improved business outcomes. Practices scoring higher on the maturity index reported significantly better positive outcomes compared to those at lower levels. Common benefits included increased time for patient care and enhanced client satisfaction.
With AI adoption already prevalent, the next step for veterinary practices involves making the technology effectively support everyday operations. By establishing clear responsibilities, implementing practical guidelines, selecting appropriate tools, and refining workflows, veterinary teams can utilize AI more effectively while ensuring necessary oversight remains in place.