By Jenny Langridge, Editor, Veterinary Woman
Tony Houghton is not what you might expect from an IT expert. What strikes me immediately is that although highly knowledgeable about technology and its development in the vet sector, his focus is firmly on people. The ethos of the company he founded and the software solutions he creates is, at root, all about making life better for people and helping bring about positive change.
Tony is the founder and Managing Director of VetIT, a company focused on developing innovative technology to help vets provide exceptional care to their patients.
“I started out in IT, which, let’s be honest, doesn’t always sound like the most exciting industry,” he smiles. “About 15 years ago, a friend of mine who ran a veterinary practice needed better software. So, I sent some of my team to a trade show to look at what was available. They came back saying the technology vets were using was clunky and outdated, and the business models weren’t great.
“At that time, we were working with industries like financial services and early web apps, including the forerunners of Facebook. We knew what modern software could do and saw an opportunity to help by giving vets better tools. After spending time talking to practice owners, vets, nurses, and suppliers, it became clear there was a need for change, and we were confident we could make a difference.
“Since then, it’s been about building the right team. Many of our recruits have come from the veterinary world themselves, and this helps us understand what’s required. A lot of our colleagues happen to be female, which is the reflection of our industry, I guess. But the important thing is they’re all good at what they do and genuinely want to be here. That enthusiasm and talent have shaped VetIT into what it is today.”
Sharing the vision
Some of the challenges Tony has faced in founding and growing a successful business have led to the development of a highly positive culture within his company. “In the early days when money was tight, we couldn’t compete on salaries, so we had to offer something else – a place where people felt part of the bigger picture and had a chance to make an impact,” he explains. “It worked, and many of those people are still with us today.
“But one of the biggest challenges has been keeping the company culture as we’ve grown. When we were a small team, it was easy to stay connected, but as more people joined, it got harder. We’ve managed by making sure everyone who joins understands what VetIT is about and shares our vision.”
That vision remains just as strong today, now as part of the NVS Group. “Being part of a wider organisation with shared values gives us the opportunity to grow while staying true to what makes VetIT unique,” Tony explains. “It allows us to continue developing innovative solutions for veterinary practices, with the same focus on people and positive change.”
At the heart of this vision is a commitment to solving real problems for vets, stemming from Tony’s first look at veterinary software, when he realised that vets were getting a poor deal. “Their systems didn’t make their lives easier, and they certainly weren’t supporting the level of care they wanted to provide.
“My motivation came from seeing the problems vets were dealing with, topped by frustration with the technology available at the time. After digging deeper, it was clear that the whole industry was behind the curve. I thought we could help fix that.”
“The veterinary industry is driven by a deep sense of compassion, and we believed technology should support that care, not get in the way.”
With his team, he set out to create change, building software that worked for vets – tools that were straightforward, reliable, and efficient. “Ultimately, it was about creating technology that helped vets focus on what they do best: caring for animals. The veterinary industry is driven by a deep sense of compassion, and we believed technology should support that care, not get in the way.”
Tony is clear that it’s not just about the software; “It’s also about people. From the beginning, we’ve worked hard to create a workplace where people feel valued and connected. A lot of our team members came to us not because they were looking for an IT job, but because they wanted to be part of the solution. We’ve created roles and opportunities for them, and their experience has been a game-changer for us.”
Leading a positive culture
Tony places a high value on trying to be flexible as an employer, especially for those who have complex family commitments. “For example, we’ve had colleagues who needed to work part-time or adjust their hours, and we made that work.
“I also try to be approachable and treat others as grown-up individuals, no micro-management. If someone needs to adjust their hours to make it to a school assembly or deal with a personal issue, I’ll support them. That kind of understanding builds trust, and when you trust people, they’re more likely to go an extra mile.”
This approach has paid off in the development of VetIT. “It’s about listening to people and building a team that is passionate about what they do and feels supported. When you involve people who genuinely want to be involved, it drives positive change. They take ownership of their work, and that shows in the results.”
And there is also a personal pay-off in this style of supportive leadership: “I’m motivated by people. I enjoy recognising strengths in others, even when they might not see them in themselves,” Tony confides. “Helping people succeed and watching them achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding to me.”
Managing change
On the subject of how to encourage others to get on board with ideas, Tony has a simple philosophy. “I’ve always believed that open communication is key. This is where creativity comes from. Talking to people and listening to their ideas makes a huge difference. When people feel their input matters, they take responsibility for the outcomes.”
I’m interested to know how Tony sees his work bringing beneficial change to the veterinary sector. “We’re making a difference by giving vets tools that allow them to focus on animal health and well-being,” he replies. “When the software works smoothly, it saves time, reduces stress, and helps manage costs, and that has a ripple effect on patient care.
“But beyond that, on the team side, we’ve created a space where people can evolve and progress. We’ve also shown that success doesn’t always follow a traditional path. Many of our colleagues have transitioned from clinical roles into IT, and they’re excelling.
“Success doesn’t always follow a traditional path.”
“It’s about breaking down barriers and showing that various skills and experiences can lead to new opportunities, inspiring others in the industry to explore different career options.”
I ask Tony about the best advice he can give about driving positive change. He responds straightforwardly: “Trust your gut. Change isn’t easy – it comes with uncertainty and scepticism – but if it feels right, it’s worth it.”
Tony has always been an innovator. “I’ve always loved new experiences – whether it’s trying motocross, climbing a mountain, or open water swimming! Those moments challenge and excite me, reminding that growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zones. I’ve learned just as much from failures as from successes, and I’m passionate about supporting others and continuing to learn along the way.”
He has successfully navigated the tricky path of challenging the status-quo. When he started VetIT, DOS systems were still common. “Based on our experience with the government and corporates, we decided to build the first corporate-level web solution for the market,” he explains. “Others laughed, saying it would never catch on, but today, those systems are the core of the industry. Sometimes, the risks you take end up shifting perspectives and driving broader change.”
He also advocates a team approach that looks out for the promise that people show. “Appreciate the team around you. When you support them through their challenges, they’ll step up for you when it counts,” he advises. “Also, don’t be afraid to take chances on people. Sometimes the best hires aren’t the ones with perfect CVs – they’re the ones with the right attitude and potential.”
Into the future
It’s clear that Tony’s approach to building a nurturing and progressive culture and his genuine appetite for benefiting the wider veterinary profession has been successful for his business, so I ask how he intends to continue creating change for the better. “The future is about staying true to our core values – putting people first, keeping focused on the tasks and challenges in front of us, being passionate about the veterinary industry and always advancing,” he answers. “We’ll keep improving the systems we offer to vets and expanding our team with people who share our vision and are excited about what we’re doing.”
“We’ll continue supporting individuals who want to transition into new roles within VetIT, especially those coming from veterinary practice backgrounds. Everybody has untapped potential, and if we can help people realise that, it’s a win for everyone.
He also intends to stay adaptable. “One size doesn’t fit all, and it’s important to keep listening to our team and customers to make sure we’re heading in the right direction.
“Ultimately, it’s about building something that genuinely makes a difference – both for the wider profession and for the people who work with us.”
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