The AVMA Veterinary Business and Economic Forum returns online October 7–8, with new pet demographic data and keynotes aimed squarely at practice teams headlining the two-day program.

The American Veterinary Medical Association confirmed the dates and format for its annual economics-focused event, which will again run virtually after previous online editions. The forum targets veterinarians, practice managers and industry professionals who track the financial and demographic forces reshaping clinical work.

What should attendees expect from the program?

Two elements stand out in the announced agenda:

• New pet demographic data — fresh figures on pet populations that practices can benchmark against their own client base and use for capacity and service planning.
• Team-focused keynotes — sessions built around staffing, team performance and workplace dynamics, reflecting the sector's persistent pressure on retention and workflow.

The AVMA positions the forum as the place where economic research meets practice management. For clinics weighing hiring decisions, pricing adjustments or expansion, the demographic data release is likely to be the most immediately actionable item on the agenda.

Why does this matter at the practice level?

Pet demographic data shapes more than marketing. Population counts, species mix and household distribution feed into:

• Demand forecasting for appointments and services
• Regional staffing and expansion decisions
• Product and formulary planning tied to species trends

A virtual format keeps registration and travel costs low, which matters for practices watching continuing-education budgets. It also allows team members — not just owners — to attend sessions relevant to their roles, an advantage for a program explicitly oriented toward team-focused content.

Who should attend?

The forum addresses companion-animal practice economics primarily, though the AVMA's economic research typically spans the profession. Practice owners, associate veterinarians, managers and hospital administrators are the core audience for the business and staffing tracks.

Registration details, the full speaker lineup and session schedules are available through the AVMA. Practices planning to send multiple team members should check group options when they open.

With staffing pressures and shifting pet ownership patterns still driving practice economics, the October 7–8 forum's data release should give attendees concrete figures to work with before the end of the year.