A veterinary clinic inventory includes long-term assets such as medical equipment and technology, as well as consumable supplies that need to be monitored and replenished. The exact stock a practice needs depends on the animals it treats and the services it offers.
Whether you are starting a veterinary hospital, growing your clinic or getting more organised, keeping track of these items can make a difference. Here are common assets, supplies and ways to manage them.
Valuable assets
A veterinary business will probably need to invest in equipment and machinery. These resources might include:
- Medical technology, such as X-ray machines and ultrasound devices.
- Examination-room furniture and equipment, including computers, printers, iPads and credit card processors.
Because these products are not intended to be sold for cash within the first year, they are regarded as long-term assets rather than inventory. Use an inventory tool such as Sortly to keep track of your possessions and the price you paid for them.
As these assets lose value year after year, your accountant can assist you in keeping track of them.
Materials and supplies
The supplies and materials a veterinary clinic needs will vary depending on the animals it treats and whether it offers emergency treatments or surgical procedures. A clinic may need:
- Medicines for a veterinary pharmacy, such as anti-parasite, anti-flea and tick, and antibiotic drugs.
- First-aid materials, such as cones, gauze swabs and alcohol swabs.
- Grooming items, such as scissors, coat wash, bandanas and bows.
- Vaccines.
- Surgical instruments, such as elevators, retractors, scissors and forceps.
- Medical equipment, such as veterinary syringes.
- Safety equipment, such as examination gloves and masks.
- Items for sale, including leashes, collars, dog food, snacks and shopping bags.
- Standard office supplies for the front desk.
Traditional inventory includes supplies and materials intended to be turned over or converted into cash within a year. Ideally, your company will determine the right inventory level so that items do not run out, spoil or become obsolete.
How veterinarians manage inventory
Veterinary hospitals can manage inventory manually, with a spreadsheet or using inventory control software.
Manual counts
With manual inventory management, staff track every item, often by maintaining physical inventories. A team member counts items in examination rooms and storage cupboards once or twice a week and records the results.
Spreadsheets
Some veterinary clinics use an Excel or Google spreadsheet to track inventory and assets. Spreadsheets are economical and practical, but they can be prone to errors: items may look or sound similar, and it is easy for an employee to enter information in the wrong cell.
Inventory control software
Most clinics use inventory management software to track consumable goods in a veterinary hospital. This technology automates some of the most onerous, repetitive aspects of inventory management. You could also choose app-based inventory software.
Conclusion
Consider the types of animals your practice will see and the services it will offer. Keep enough basic supplies on hand, such as food, bedding, toys and medical tools.
Following these guidelines can help you keep your veterinary practice stocked and prepared to care for your patients.
UKMEDI offers veterinary supplies, including needles and syringes, as well as disposable medical supplies and equipment.