Puppilot vs PetDesk: AI-Native vs Traditional Platform
PetDesk helps clinics communicate with clients. Puppilot answers your phones, reads medical records, and resolves calls autonomously. See how an AI front desk compares to a client engagement platform.
| Feature | Puppilot | PetDesk |
|---|---|---|
| Medical record access AI Capabilities | ||
| AI phone answering AI Capabilities | ||
| Emergency triage AI Capabilities | ||
| Outbound follow-ups AI Capabilities | ||
| Appointment booking by phone Scheduling | Partial | |
| 24/7 coverage Availability | Partial | |
| PIMS integration depth Integrations | Deep read/write | Basic sync |
| Client communication Communication | Phone, text, email | App, text, email |
| Loyalty programs Extras | ||
| Social media management Extras |
Medical Records in Every Conversation
When a client calls about their pet's medication, Puppilot pulls up the patient chart in real time. It knows the drug name, dosage, prescribing veterinarian, and last refill date. PetDesk sends reminders and confirmations, but it cannot access or reference clinical data during a live interaction.
AI That Actually Answers the Phone
PetDesk routes clients to digital channels like its app and messaging. Puppilot picks up the phone and handles the call from start to finish. For the 70% of pet owners who still prefer to call their vet, that distinction changes everything about how your clinic operates after hours and during peak volume.
Proactive Outreach, Not Just Inbound
Puppilot doesn't wait for clients to call. It reaches out for vaccine reminders, post-surgical check-ins, and overdue lab follow-ups with full context from the medical record. PetDesk offers automated reminders, but they are template-based messages without awareness of the patient's clinical history.
We used to lose clients after hours when they went to voicemail. Now every single call gets answered with actual medical context. Our clients are thrilled about the experience.
Puppilot vs PetDesk: Common Questions
Can I use Puppilot and PetDesk together?
Yes. Some clinics use PetDesk for its loyalty program and app-based engagement while using Puppilot to handle all phone-based interactions. The two platforms serve different functions, so they can complement each other without conflict.
Does PetDesk offer AI phone answering?
PetDesk focuses on digital client communication through its mobile app, text messaging, and email campaigns. It does not provide AI-powered phone answering or live call handling. Phone calls to your clinic would still need to be handled by staff or a separate answering service.
How does Puppilot's PIMS integration compare to PetDesk's?
Puppilot maintains a deep, bidirectional integration with your practice management system. It reads medical records, lab results, and appointment schedules in real time during calls. PetDesk syncs appointment and client data for reminders and scheduling, but does not access clinical records like medications, diagnoses, or treatment plans.
Is Puppilot more expensive than PetDesk?
The two products serve different needs, so a direct price comparison can be misleading. PetDesk charges $250 per user plus a flat fee that varies by clinic size. Puppilot Full Service is $125 per doctor per month, charged per doctor rather than per user, so front desk staff and technicians do not increase your cost. An After-Hours Voicemail plan is also available at $50 per month. Both plans include a 2-week free trial. Most clinics find that Puppilot pays for itself through reduced missed calls and recovered revenue within the first month.
What if my clients prefer using an app instead of calling?
Many clients do prefer digital channels, and PetDesk serves that audience well. However, phone calls remain the dominant contact method for veterinary clinics, especially for urgent questions, medication concerns, and scheduling changes. Puppilot ensures those callers get immediate, accurate help instead of voicemail.