ezyVet vs Shepherd vs Covetrus Pulse: 11 Best Veterinary Practice Management Software 2026

Best for complex workflows

ezyVet (#1, 9.2/9.4). The most powerful and integrated PIMS for large, complex veterinary practices and hospitals. It also handles multi-location management, specialty and ER needs.

Best for inefficient charting

Shepherd (#2, 9.0/9.4). The most intuitive PIMS, designed to simplify charting and automate billing. It also handles staff burnout, poor user experience.

Best for scaling operations

Covetrus Pulse (#3, 8.8/9.4). A scalable cloud PIMS with deep ties to the Covetrus supply and services ecosystem. It also handles integrating with a large supplier, all-in-one platform needs.

How to Choose Your Veterinary Software

First, define your practice's core needs, distinguishing between must-haves (like reliable lab integrations) and nice-to-haves (like a built-in wellness plan module). Second, prioritize either an all-in-one system or a best-of-breed approach that relies on strong third-party integrations. Finally, schedule live demos with your top 2-3 candidates to see the actual workflow for your most common daily tasks, like a new patient check-in or a surgical discharge.

Key Feature: Cloud vs. On-Premise

Cloud-based software is the modern standard, offering remote access, automatic updates, and lower upfront hardware costs, making it ideal for nearly all new buyers. On-premise systems, like the classic IDEXX Cornerstone, require a local server and manual updates but can offer more control and operate without an internet connection, which may appeal to rural clinics with unreliable connectivity.

How to choose

1. 1Map your top 5 most frequent daily workflows and score each potential software on how many clicks each task takes.
2. 2Verify that the software has direct, two-way integrations with your specific diagnostic lab and imaging equipment.
3. 3Request to speak with a reference clinic that is similar in size and specialty to your own.
4. 4Clarify all costs beyond the monthly subscription, including data migration fees, setup charges, and costs for additional training.

What is the average cost of veterinary practice management software?

The average cost for cloud-based veterinary software is typically between $150 and $500 per month for a small to mid-sized practice. Pricing is often based on the number of full-time equivalent veterinarians, with additional fees for data migration, setup, and advanced modules like wellness plans or advanced inventory.

What is the difference between cloud-based and on-premise vet software?

Cloud-based software is hosted by the provider and accessed via the internet, offering remote access and automatic updates. On-premise software is installed on a local server at your clinic, giving you direct control over the hardware but requiring you to manage security, backups, and software updates.

How long does it take to implement new vet software?

Implementation time varies from 30 to 90 days on average. The process includes data migration from your old system, hardware setup, software configuration, and staff training. Migrating from an older, on-premise system generally takes longer than switching between two modern cloud platforms.

Do I need separate software for lab integrations?

No, you should not need separate software. Modern PIMS offer direct, two-way integrations with major diagnostic laboratories like IDEXX, Antech, and Heska. This allows you to order tests and receive results directly within the patient's medical record, eliminating manual data entry.