Bigstock Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly common tool for pet owners seeking information about animal health, with many users reporting greater confidence in their care decisions and stronger engagement with veterinary teams, according to a study by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Chewy Health. The Artificial Intelligence and Pet Health Study, based on a nationally representative online survey of 2,008 U.S. dog and cat owners conducted May 12–20, 2026, found 81 percent of respondents had used AI, while 36 percent had used it for pet care. Overall, 70 percent were open to using AI for pet-related questions. "Pet parents have always looked for information to help them make the right decisions for their pets, and AI is becoming another part of that journey," says Mita Malhotra, President of Chewy Health. "What's encouraging is that pet parents who use AI are highly engaged with their veterinarians, using it to better understand their pet's health and feel more prepared and confident along the way. That creates an opportunity for veterinary teams to help guide how these tools are used while providing the expertise, judgment and human connection that technology simply cannot replace." Among AI users who had a veterinarian, 69 percent said the technology improved their relationship with their veterinarian, 67 percent felt more informed before appointments and 62 percent reported more productive conversations with their veterinary team. Additionally, 66 percent said AI improved their understanding of veterinary explanations. Pet owners primarily turned to AI for quick answers (84 percent), reassurance (83 percent) and greater confidence in care decisions (82 percent). Common applications included understanding symptoms, interpreting diagnoses or laboratory results, managing routine care and preparing for veterinary visits. However, respondents recognized that AI cannot physically examine an animal or replace the judgment, empathy and accountability of veterinary professionals. They rated veterinary teams more highly for personalization, trustworthiness and information accuracy. For veterinary practices, the findings point to an opportunity to proactively discuss clients’ use of AI, address misinformation and help owners distinguish between general information and concerns requiring professional evaluation. Chewy Health and HABRI developed The Bond Factor II, a guide to help veterinary teams discuss AI use with clients and strengthen communication, trust and the human-animal bond.
