The phrase “asset management” usually brings to mind things such as investments, buildings, intellectual property — but perhaps not pets.Fortunately, Hippo Manager Veterinary Practice Management Software does, placing the health and care of its nonhuman patients first and foremost.The locally grown software company was founded three years ago by CEO Sam Razor, a University of Kentucky graduate. Now, Hippo Manager’s team of six developers and salespeople partner with nearly 100 veterinary practices throughout the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand to provide care with its easy-to-use, customizable software (tech support and training included).Hippo Manager’s comprehensive software covers not only household pets, but also exotic, avian, bovine and equine species, which, unsurprisingly, have become a particular focus for a company based in the horse capital of the world.
Its system boasts wide functionality, including features such as medical histories and charting, a point of sale system, appointment scheduling and reminders, and inventory management.
According to Razor, Hippo Manager stands out in a stagnant market where mainstream products are technologically outdated.
“We’re always watching the landscape and adding new features,” Razor said.
Indeed, the company soon will introduce a new patient portal that allows clients to access scheduling, billing, medical, and educational information online.
Hippo is entirely cloud-based, unlike some other software packages in the market. Veterinarians can use it to operate from any location, using only a desktop or touch-screen device.
“Data is more secure in the cloud than it is on a local system,” Razor said. Thus, if a device crashes or a horse steps on your computer, business won’t suffer while your hard drive is undergoing repair.
Hippo Manager also partners with Vet Data Services to convert information from previous software, ensuring an easy transition.
Hippo Manager costs $49.95 per veterinarian each month with no charge for other staff .
Though Hippo Manager was formed three years ago, it has found steadier footing more recently with the help of a Bluegrass Angel Investors Start-Up fund and a fellowship at Awesome Inc., another Lexington-based company that seeks to create and grow high-tech start-ups. Offering community events, technology education courses, and a shared workspace, Awesome Inc. could prove a rewarding resource for other tech innovators.
Razor’s experience in growing Hippo Manager has given him valuable insights to share with hopeful start-ups: “Be persistent and patient. It takes a lot of work to reinvent the wheel.”