The influence, promise, and potential perils of artificial intelligence in veterinary medicine: a call for improved awareness and literacy

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming integrated into daily lives, including tasks unique to our professional domains. With technology outpacing the general knowledge base regarding veterinary AI tools, we are at a critical inflection point in our American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) and European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine - Companion Animals (ECVIM-CA) community. This manuscript presents a perspective aimed at igniting a broader and deeper discussion of, and engagement with, AI tools among members and enhancing members' AI literacy where necessary. The ACVIM AI Task Force encourages members to become actively involved in the processes that determine where, when, and how AI technology is adopted in our fields of expertise. Collectively, the principles outlined here promote thoughtful, transparent innovations while upholding standards of modern healthcare. However, it behooves us as potential users to support the need for critical oversight to evaluate and verify the safety and efficacy of AI tools in the routine patient care. To aid with an initial review of AI tools before use, a novel ACVIM AI Validation Factor checklist is introduced.