This September, the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City became the epicenter of Veterinary leadership and innovation as VetForum USA 2025 welcomed senior executives, Veterinary consolidators, technology leaders, and innovators from across the country.
As always, VetForum delivered on its promise: a unique blend of thought-provoking content and curated one-to-one meetings. What sets this event apart is its ability to unite decision-makers with solution providers in an intentional, efficient, and impactful way.
A Forward-Looking Agenda
The 2025 program reflected the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the profession. Day 1 opened with a warm welcome and quickly shifted into a panel I had the privilege to moderate: “How Group Practices Can Drive Operational Efficiencies.” My co-panelists included Brendan Lynch of VCA, Peter Verrill of Heartland Veterinary Partners, Susan Groeneveld of sylvester.ai, and Joe Chickerillo of Chckvet.
Together, we explored how leadership in group practices can leverage technology, process improvement, and culture to streamline operations while delivering exceptional patient care.
Sessions from innovators Provet Cloud and Lupa brought fresh energy to the stage, demonstrating how AI-driven tools are reshaping clinic workflows. The “Game Changers” showcase provided emerging startups with a platform to showcase new products that could become tomorrow’s industry standards.
Day 2 spotlighted team retention, client experience, and practice growth strategies. Dr. Heather Loenser of Suveto led an inspiring discussion on creating workplaces where Veterinary teams thrive, while Candise Goodwin emphasized how de novo clinics can design defining client experiences. Leaders from Modern Animal, Heart + Paw, and Petfolk shared growth stories centered around reimagining the client journey. Dr. Audrey Wystrach emphasized the need for reimagining Veterinary medicine, stating, “If I leave a legacy, it is that I want to bring joy back to Veterinary medicine.”
Building Relationships That Matter
Of course, VetForum isn’t just about the sessions. The structured one-to-one meetings—spread across both days—remain the backbone of the event.
These conversations allow buyers and sellers to connect meaningfully, solve real challenges, and accelerate partnerships. Evening networking dinners and receptions added warmth and collegiality, reminding us that in this industry, relationships matter as much as strategy.
Why VetForum 2025 Stood Out
Three themes defined this year’s meeting:
Efficiency with Impact – Consolidators and independents alike are focused on maximizing resources while not losing sight of the patient and client experience.
Technology as a Partner, Not a Threat – AI, unified PIMS, and workflow solutions are being reframed as allies in reducing burnout and enabling veterinarians to focus on care.
The Power of Connection – From the main stage to the meeting tables, the value of VetForum lies in its ability to make the right introductions at the right time.
VetForum USA 2025 reminded us that while the Veterinary profession faces undeniable pressures, the path forward is illuminated by collaboration, innovation, and leadership. For those who couldn’t attend, this was not just another industry meeting—it was a catalyst for shaping the next chapter of animal health.