How do veterinary offices typically set up their filing systems?

Veterinary offices file by patient (pet name with owner last name) or by client family (all pets in one folder). A lateral or vertical filing cabinet with one folder per patient or client family covers active patient needs. Vaccination records, surgical histories, and treatment plans are the primary contents. AVMA record retention guidelines typically recommend keeping records for 2–3 years after the last visit, longer for controlled substance logs (DEA requires 2 years minimum). Controlled substance logs require particularly secure, locked storage. As practices move to electronic medical records, physical filing reduces significantly — but original signed consent forms and DEA logs often remain physical requirements. FindOfficeFurniture.com — call 888-719-4960.