Mobile Apps in Veterinary Medicine: Literature Review on Opportunities and Benefits for Veterinarians, Animal Owners and Animal Welfare

Abstract

This paper explores the use of mobile applications in veterinary medicine, focusing on their opportunities, benefits, challenges, and risks from the perspectives of veterinarians, pet owners, and animal welfare. Drawing on a structured literature review of peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025, the analysis reveals that mobile apps offer significant value across clinical, educational, and communication domains. Veterinarians benefit from real-time access to patient data, decision-support systems, and improved diagnostic tools. Pet owners gain easier access to veterinary services, enhanced participation in health monitoring, and timely communication with professionals. Mobile technologies also contribute to animal welfare by enabling remote monitoring, disease surveillance, and early intervention strategies. Despite these benefits, the paper identifies key challenges, including significant concerns around data security, the lack of regulatory oversight, and the absence of standardized app vetting processes. These shortcomings may compromise patient safety and create legal and ethical uncertainties. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for robust governance structures and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure the safe and effective integration of mobile applications into veterinary practice. The findings provide both practical recommendations and theoretical insights that contribute to the ongoing digital transformation of veterinary care.