The AI Wake-up Call Vet Med Can’t Afford to Miss

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In this insightful episode of the Veterinary Business Podcast, Dr. Amanda Landis Hannah welcomes Dr. Karen Bolten, known as the Business Veterinarian, to discuss a critical topic for veterinary medicine today: the AI wake-up call VetMed can’t afford to miss. Dr. Bolten shares her unique journey from a practicing equine vet during the recession to a veterinary business owner and tech enthusiast, highlighting the transformative role of AI and technology in veterinary practice management.

They dive deep into AI’s practical applications—from ambient AI scribes to diagnostic tools, client communication bots, vital monitoring wearables, and innovative solutions in production animal medicine, including AI for bees. 

Dr. Bolten also addresses the ethical considerations and data privacy risks associated with AI adoption, shares strategies for helping veterinary teams embrace new technologies, and offers actionable advice for future-proofing your clinic in the age of AI.

Key Takeaways & Time Stamps

• 00:00 – 08:00: Introduction & Guest Background
  • Dr. Karen  Bolten’s background: equine vet, business owner, and tech enthusiast
  • Early career challenges during the 2008-2009 recession
• 08:00 – 15:30: Recession Impact & Veterinary Career Lessons
  • Hard realities of starting in equine practice during economic downturn
  • Lessons learned about workload, break-even analysis, and mental health
• 15:30 – 23:00: Evolution of Technology in VetMed
  • Transition from early tech to current AI-enabled veterinary tools
  • Realization of cost-efficiency and productivity gains by adopting tech solutions
• 23:00 – 31:30: Ethical Considerations & Data Privacy
  • Data privacy concerns with AI tools in veterinary practices
  • Lack of strong AI regulations in the US vs. other regions
  • Bias in AI training data and the importance of understanding model limitations
• 31:30 – 45:30: AI Tool Directory & Current Veterinary AI Applications
  • Overview of AI tools for small animal practice: AI scribes, diagnostic AI, client communications, wearable monitoring devices
  • Exciting AI uses in production animal medicine: multimodal monitoring, estrus detection, respiratory monitoring, aquaculture, and even AI for bee health
• 45:30 – 53:00: Team Adoption & Overcoming Resistance to AI
  • Cultural shifts necessary for successful AI integration
  • Importance of leadership modeling, training, communication, and continuous learning
• 53:00 – 58:00: Future-proofing Vet Practices with AI
  • Setting aside dedicated time to explore AI solutions
  • Evaluating AI tools like any medical tool with responsibility
  • Start small by addressing the biggest problem in the practice, such as medical records

Karen Bolten, DVM, MBA

Veterinary AI & Brand Strategy | Ethical Tech Implementation | Educator | Innovator
Brand Strategist & AI Consultant, The Business Vet, LLC

Karen Bolten is a licensed veterinarian, AI strategist, and business innovator dedicated to transforming the veterinary industry through technology and strategic thinking. With over 15 years of clinical experience across small animal, equine, exotics, and shelter medicine, Karen pairs her deep veterinary insight with an MBA focused on innovation and management to help veterinary professionals thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

As the founder of The Business Vet, LLC, she consults on brand strategy, AI adoption, and workflow optimization for practices and organizations. Her expertise lies in guiding veterinary leaders to embrace ethical, scalable technology solutions while maintaining exceptional client care. She also creates educational content, custom tools, and courses that make complex business and AI concepts practical and accessible.

Karen’s career highlights include building and scaling the first multi-doctor equine practice in her county, serving as Head Veterinarian at a major humane society, and advising on AI-driven solutions that improve efficiency and decision-making in practice management. She frequently shares her insights through podcasts, publications, and industry collaborations, advocating for smarter, more sustainable veterinary businesses.

When she’s not consulting or teaching, Karen is passionate about mentoring, writing, and exploring the intersection of animal health and emerging technology.

Connect with Dr. Bolten

• LinkedIn
• Website