In this episode, Mark McGaunn and Jenni George discuss key takeaways from the VMX conference, focusing on the rise of AI technology in veterinary medicine, challenges faced by practices, the importance of team dynamics and retention, and the impact of relief veterinarians. They emphasize the need for embracing technology, maintaining a positive culture, and the significance of continuity of care for clients. The conversation highlights the importance of bringing teams to conferences for shared learning and growth.

Takeaways

• AI technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in veterinary practices.
• Veterinary practices face challenges in retention and team dynamics.
• Continuity of care is essential for client satisfaction.
• Embracing technology can improve efficiency and emotional wellness.
• Relief veterinarians are changing the landscape of veterinary care.
• Team involvement in decision-making leads to happier practices.
• New graduates are eager to learn and adapt to practice culture.
• Conferences provide valuable opportunities for team building and learning.
• Practices should focus on culture to retain staff and clients.
• It's important to set expectations for team participation at conferences.

Want to learn more about how Mark and his team at LGA help veterinarian practices thrive? Visit https://www.lga.cpa/who-we-serve/veterinarians/.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a future concept in veterinary medicine. It is already showing up in exam rooms, back offices, and practice management systems across the country. In this episode, Chris O’Day sits down with hosts Jenni George, CVPM and Mark McGaunn, CPA/PFS, CFP® to cut through the hype and talk honestly about how AI is being used in veterinary practices today, where it is creating real efficiency, and where it introduces new risks. From AI scribes and scheduling tools to legal gray areas and culture concerns, this conversation focuses on how practice owners can adopt artificial intelligence thoughtfully without losing what makes their practice human.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Where AI is already being used in veterinary practices today
• How AI scribe tools can improve efficiency while still requiring human oversight
• The legal and medical record questions surrounding recordings, transcriptions, and data retention
• Common fears and misconceptions about artificial intelligence in veterinary medicine
• How practice owners can start small, test responsibly, and build clear guardrails
• Why protecting client experience and practice culture matters just as much as efficiency gains
• What Jenni and Mark are watching for at VMX and in the rapidly growing veterinary AI space

If you’re curious about artificial intelligence but unsure where to begin, this episode offers a practical, grounded perspective from professionals who are already seeing it in action.

In this episode of the Veterinary Survival Show, Mark McGaunn and Jenni George break down how veterinary practices can stay financially resilient through slow seasons, unexpected emergencies, and major equipment purchases.

You will learn the most common financial vulnerabilities Mark sees in practice owners, why building cash reserves is non negotiable, and how real world disruptions like COVID, floods, fires, and equipment failures expose weak planning. Jenni shares practical lessons learned the hard way, including why insurance audits matter, how to avoid coverage gaps, and what policies and documentation every clinic should have in place.

They also tackle the big question every owner faces when the “new shiny toy” shows up, when it makes sense to lease vs buy, how to spot unclear or unfavorable lease terms, and why you should always review agreements before you sign. Finally, they discuss ways to smooth out cash flow year round, including wellness plans, transparent pricing conversations, and using slower periods to improve systems, training, and team retention.

If you want a more predictable, less stressful financial year in your practice, this episode gives you a clear starting point.