Animal Health Technology Industry Analysis

The veterinary sector is witnessing an inundation of new digital technologies. However, this does not necessarily translate to an increase in uptake of these innovations. There is a need for improved connectivity and integration to help vets use digital technologies to directly have a positive impact on animal health. Telehealth, wearables, implantable devices, artificial intelligence and Big Data could potentially provide veterinary professionals with opportunities to improve the services they provide. These technologies may also allow vets to engage better with their clients and facilitate access to improved veterinary care. At the moment, the veterinary profession is a transitional phase – there is a disconnect with some clients, especially millennials, who access the majority of data on their mobile. Additionally, Google has overtaken the vet practice as the first port of call for information. To counter this trend, digital technology can be harnessed to disseminate the knowledge that vets have. The key for digital technology in livestock farming is to be able to measure variables, help producers manage their herds, provide ongoing monitoring and then repeat these processes.