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What is VetCompass Australia and why is it important?

Your veterinarian works hard to prevent disease and discomfort and maintain the health of your pet. A greater understanding of the frequency and risk factors of diseases can improve their identification, treatment or prevention. VetCompass Australia aims to use the wealth of general practice linical data to provide this information, in order to improve the health and welfare of Australian animals.

VetCompass Australia collects data on a range of conditions seen in general practice veterinary clinics. Certain disorders will be investigated to determine if there is an increased frequency in particular breeds. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed scientific literature. Summaries of the information will also be made available to the public through our website.

Is VetCompass Australia compliant with privacy and ethics rules?

Data collection, storage and analysis are compliant with privacy legislation in Australia and have approval from the University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (Project No. 2026/HE000158). Researchers will
not be able to identify you from data collected.

We sincerely thank veterinary practice teams and their clients who participate in VetCompass Australia.

Veterinary practices receive no payment for participation in this collaborative project and are taking part in order to contribute to a happier and healthier future for Australian companion animals. VetCompass Australia has the support of Australia’s veterinary schools.

My veterinay clinic contributes data to VetCompass Australia. What do I need to do?

If you are happy for your animal’s data to be included in VetCompass Australia, then you do not need to take any action. The health records of your pet will be recorded at the time of consultation, as they would normally. These will then be forwarded to VetCompass Australia at a later date. 

If you do not want your animal to be included in the study, please tell any member of the practice team and your pet’s records will not be sent to VetCompass Australia. This will not affect the current or future treatment of your animal in any way. You can also contact us directly.