How outdated systems, poor integration, and misunderstood assumptions are holding teams back
Technology is meant to make life easier, but in many veterinary practices, it can feel like it’s working against the teams who rely on it. From outdated systems to disconnected processes and limited awareness, veterinary professionals often face more frustration than efficiency when it comes to IT.
As part of the Best Practice Summit, we spoke with Jack Peploe, a veterinary IT specialist, to understand the challenges teams face and how technology can be harnessed to support them.
From Early Curiosity to Veterinary IT
Jack Peploe’s journey into technology began at 16, when he started a computer-building business out of frustration with school. Early exposure to technology, combined with curiosity sparked by his father’s weather machine on their farm, eventually led him to veterinary IT. A local vet recognised his tech skills and asked for help with a computer problem. That connection grew into a long-term professional relationship and laid the foundation for Jack’s career in supporting veterinary practices with technology and cybersecurity.
The key insight from this experience is that technology is not an enemy. When used correctly, it can enable teams and improve outcomes, but only if practitioners invest time in preparation and understanding.
Why Veterinary Technology Feels Behind
During our conversation, Jack explained that many practices still rely on systems that feel decades old. Even in the UK, considered advanced in veterinary IT, systems can be disconnected, difficult to update, and expensive to maintain. Poor advice and outdated infrastructure have created unnecessary obstacles for teams whose primary focus is patient care.
Practice Management Systems (PMS) are often at the centre of these issues. They are treated as the “heart” of a practice, but high costs, limited integrations, and opaque vendor practices can make them feel like barriers rather than solutions. While some practices explore off-the-shelf CRM solutions, veterinary-specific requirements, such as lab integrations, diagnostics, and insurance, often require purpose-built systems.
Digital Skills and Cybersecurity
Jack emphasised that technology is only effective when teams understand it. Many practices do not integrate IT into onboarding or ongoing training. Assigning owners for different systems, providing structured learning, and encouraging continual skill development are key to empowering teams.
Cybersecurity is another area where awareness is critical. Small practices may feel they are not targets, but in reality, they are often “low-hanging fruit” for attackers. Jack recommended basic best practices, such as strong passwords, staff training, and regular reviews, as well as government resources like the Cyber Essentials Scheme. Ethical hacking also plays a role in preemptively identifying vulnerabilities and safeguarding client data.
Preparing for Change
Switching systems is not just a technical decision; it requires emotional preparation. Jack advised that practices first clarify the drivers for change and involve a core group of invested personnel to guide the adoption. Reviewing multiple solutions, assessing costs, and learning from peer experiences can minimise disruption and ensure the chosen system meets both current and future needs.
The Future: AI and Automation
When we asked about emerging tools, Jack highlighted automation and AI as key areas of excitement. Digital assistants and AI copilots can handle administrative tasks, integrate with existing systems, and even support clinical decisions. Wearables and proactive monitoring promise richer data collection, allowing trends to be identified earlier and improving patient care.
Key Takeaways for Veterinary Teams
From our conversation, several clear themes emerged:
- Design outcomes, don’t chase tools. Technology should simplify workflows, not create extra steps.
- Build adaptable systems. Practices must align their processes with technology, not the other way around.
- Invest in digital skills. Staff training and a culture of continual improvement are essential.
- Prioritise cybersecurity and responsible AI use. Protect client data and use emerging tools safely.
Speaking with Jack underscored a critical insight: technology should function like oxygen, supporting practice life without suffocating it. With the right systems, training, and mindset, veterinary teams can finally turn IT from a source of frustration into a powerful enabler for better care.
About Veterinary IT Services
Jack Peploe and the Veterinary IT Services team provide veterinary practices with practical, human-centred IT and cybersecurity support. From system selection and integration to staff training and ongoing digital guidance, they help practices make technology work for people, not the other way around. Whether it’s upgrading infrastructure, improving workflows, or safely adopting AI and automation, Veterinary IT Services offers resources tailored to the realities of modern veterinary care.
👉 Learn more about Veterinary IT Services and explore their services via the link below.