The risks of using veterinary software without recognised security standards

2 mins

Veterinary teams depend on software every day to manage patient care, billing, diagnostics, and communication, as these systems handle more sensitive information. Strong, transparent security matters just as much as good functionality.

Not every platform invests in standards that are independently verified, such as SOC 2. That does not mean a system is unsafe, but it can make it harder for practices to understand how well their data is protected or how prepared a vendor is for future security needs.

What is SOC 2

SOC 2 (System and Organisation Controls 2) is a widely recognised security framework that evaluates how a technology provider manages data protection, system reliability, and operational processes. Created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, it provides practices with a straightforward way to determine whether a software partner follows strong, independently verified controls.

Security frameworks like SOC 2 provide clarity on practices. They show how a provider manages data protection, system reliability, and operational continuity. Without this structure, teams need to rely on guesswork or lengthy manual assessments.

The practical downsides of non-certified software

Here are a few common challenges practices may face when using systems without recognised security standards:

• Limited insight into data protection
  Teams often need to trust the provider’s word. Without independent checks, it becomes harder to confirm whether the software keeps pace with modern expectations.
• Unclear resilience
  SOC 2-reviewed platforms must follow strict processes for uptime, reliability, and incident response. Non-certified systems may not offer the same level of transparency or assurance.
• More effort during procurement
  Groups and corporate practices increasingly prefer vendors with recognised certifications. Without them, procurement teams often need to run additional checks, slowing decision-making.
• Greater difficulty proving compliance
  Strong internal processes matter, but many organisations still want external validation. Without it, they may struggle to demonstrate responsible vendor selection.

Why IDEXX invests in independent verification

IDEXX continually strengthens the security of its cloud-based platforms. IDEXX Animana, ezyVet, IDEXX VetConnect PLUS, and IDEXX SmartService now hold SOC 2 certification, showing our commitment to modern standards and ongoing improvement.

For Animana, SOC 2 marks the next step in a long-standing focus on responsible security. It offers customers independent reassurance that the platform’s controls meet a widely recognised benchmark, and that we continue to invest in future readiness.

What SOC 2-certified software gives your practice

Choosing software with SOC 2 certification delivers clear benefits:

• Verified, modern security practices
• Confidence in system reliability and day-to-day continuity
• Smoother procurement and vendor assessments
• A future-proofed approach that grows with evolving standards

Supporting the future of veterinary care

Strong, transparent security helps practices protect data, maintain trust, and keep operations running smoothly. SOC 2 certification gives veterinary teams a straightforward way to identify software providers who invest in doing things the right way.

To learn more about IDEXX’s approach to security, or to request a SOC 2 report, visit the IDEXX Trust Centre.