OpenVPM vs AVImark
AVImark is a locally installed system many independent clinics have run for years. OpenVPM offers public code and schema in a modern, connected form.
Reviewed August 17, 2026 by Evan Gauer, OpenVPM founder. Vendor interest disclosed; primary sources linked below.
Workspace access is immediate. Live clinic use starts as a guided pilot alongside the current PIMS. See current fit and rollout limits.
AVImark, now part of Covetrus, is a long-standing server-installed system used by independent practices. Its local deployment can continue working without a cloud connection. OpenVPM provides public code and self-hosting, but it requires a connection and its REST API covers selected workflows only.
Quote-based vendors can change commercial terms at any time. Confirm pricing, implementation, integration, support, and exit terms in writing before buying.
Sources reviewed
We prefer vendor-owned product, pricing, developer, support, and contract material. These links support the changeable facts above, not OpenVPM's editorial judgment.
What about your data?
AVImark stores data in a proprietary local database, so moving to another system typically requires a vendor or third-party conversion. OpenVPM's code and schema are public, but moving into it still requires export review, mapping, dry runs, and assisted handling of unsupported record types.
Read: who owns your practice dataWhen AVImark is the better fit
If you specifically want software installed on your own server with local access and you are comfortable with a long-established interface, AVImark still fits that niche.
When OpenVPM is the better fit
Consider OpenVPM if you want public code and schema and your connected, single-location companion-animal or house-call workflow passes a controlled-pilot review. OpenVPM does not provide AVImark-style offline operation.
Use OpenVPM your way.
Self-host the full open-source PIMS for free, or let us run it for you. Same software, your choice.
Run OpenVPM on your own infrastructure. You operate security, backups, email, messaging, payments, model providers, and production validation.
- Full source under the AGPLv3 license
- All source modules and the documented API
- Docker or Vercel deployment paths
- Bring your own database, email, SMS, and AI keys
Common questions
Is OpenVPM cloud-only like most new systems?
No. OpenVPM has no software license fee when self-hosted on infrastructure you operate, although hosting and maintenance costs remain. Managed Cloud is also available.
How much does AVImark cost?
Covetrus does not publish a current AVImark rate card. Request a written quote covering software, implementation, support, integrations, upgrades, and data exit.
What happens to my data if I leave AVImark?
AVImark uses a proprietary format, so an export or conversion is usually part of switching. OpenVPM keeps a public schema so your records are always exportable.
Keep reading
AVImark Alternatives: For Practices That Liked Owning Their Software
AVImark practices kept it for decades for a reason: a license you own, data in the building. Here is where that instinct leads in 2026, compared honestly.
Read moreWho Owns Your Veterinary Practice's Data? (And What Happens When You Try to Leave)
A plain-language guide to veterinary data stewardship, software contracts, export fees, portability, and what open source changes.
Read moreSee OpenVPM for yourself.
The demo is live and loaded with real-looking data. No sales call. Click around, then self-host it free or let us run it for you.