Concerns have been raised that the use of AI platforms could replace veterinary consultations.
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The new trend of pet owners using AI tools to care for their animals could be a “ticking time bomb” for welfare, the RSPCA has warned.
Figures from the charity’s Animal Kindness Index released today (29 June) show that 10% of pet owners now regularly seek advice and support from AI platforms.
But authorities and clinicians fear this trend could lead to public complacency, leave diseases untreated, and even lead to prosecution of some pet owners who don’t take appropriate action.
game changer
“Whether we like it or not, AI is a game changer, including for animal welfare,” said Gemma Hope, the charity’s assistant director of policy, advocacy and evidence.
“However, with so many pet owners now using large-scale language models to check symptoms or investigate behavioral issues in unwell pets, we are concerned that this could inadvertently become a ticking time bomb for animal welfare.
“No matter how good and smart the AI may seem, if you have any questions about your pet’s health or notice any sudden changes, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.”
Nursing care costs
One of the factors driving the shift to AI may be the perception of the cost of care, with 56% of the 5,619 index survey participants admitting that they are concerned about whether they can afford their veterinary costs.
Additionally, one in 10 participants said they had reduced their care spending for financial reasons, and one in 20 said they were using AI chatbots for similar reasons.
But TV clinician Rory Cowram, clinical director at Pickles in London, said the findings were potentially “a major cause for concern”.
“Please consult an expert”
“In my clinic, we use AI tools all the time. AI tools are great for rapidly supporting our investigation and testing efforts, allowing us to treat patients faster.”
“But there is a big difference between a veterinarian using clinical AI to support an exam and a pet owner using a text chatbot to skip the exam altogether.
“If your animal is truly sick, a chatbot is not the place to ask for advice. If in doubt, log out of the AI and contact a professional.”
