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The Best Veterinary Telemedicine Services

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The worst part of having a pet is not being able to ask them what's wrong. As pet parents, we can usually tell when something is off, but it's not always clear (unless your pet communicates with buttons ). If you're anxious like me, this means a lot of expensive vet visits. Veterinary telemedicine services are a great way to deal with problems that don't warrant an emergency visit. If you've ever fallen down a Google rabbit hole trying to figure out if your pet's actions are normal, you should give a virtual vet visit a try.

With veterinary telemedicine, you talk to a vet over text, phone, or video chat to get real-time advice on what you should do for your pet. It's not a replacement for regular in-office visits, and most vets on telemedicine services can't diagnose or prescribe medications for pets they haven't previously seen in person, but they are able to give helpful advice. After trying a number of these services, here's what we recommend.

Be sure to check out our other pet guides, like the Best Gear for Newly-Adopted Pups and Kittens , Best Cat Toys and Supplies , Best Dog Tech Accessories , and Best Pet Cameras .

Updated August 2023: Chewy chat is now free for everyone. We've updated links and prices throughout.

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• Telemedicine vs. Tele-Triaging
• Best if Your Vet Is in Network: TeleVet
• Best Free Service: Chewy
• Best For Continous Care: Pawp
• This Service Can Prescribe Medication: Dutch
• Another Instant Service With an Emergency Fund: Airvet
• When You Need Another Pet Parent: Buddies by Blue Buffalo
• Other Great services: PetDesk , AskVet
• Honorable Mentions

It's important to know the distinction between veterinary telemedicine (sometimes called televet) and tele-triage. We have recommendations for both.

A vet-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is required for a vet to diagnose and prescribe medication , according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, but each state is responsible for setting the regulations for telemedicine. “Many states do allow establishing the vet-client-patient relationship remotely,” says a representative for Dutch , the first company we've seen that diagnoses and treats remotely (within reason, more on that below). Some services require that an animal be seen by a vet in person, usually within a certain number of months, before they can diagnose and prescribe medications via a televet service.

If you have an in-person vet you love who hasn't made the jump to telemedicine, there's still a lot that can be done virtually. A tele-triage service can help you decide whether to make a midnight run to an emergency animal hospital or wait until the morning. It's also useful for the general pet ownership questions you might usually search online: Should I bathe my cat? Is that food my dog stole going to make him sick? What's normal litter box behavior?

Laura Berg, vice president of business development at AskVet , says her team frequently fields medical questions, but they also get (and happily answer) less pressing questions, like how to figure out the size of dog clothing. "We provide the ability for a pet owner to ask a question they might think is dumb but they still want advice on," she says.

Several experts I spoke to say cats rarely, and in some cases never, get veterinary care because of how hard it can be to put a cat in a carrier and how stressful the experience can be on them. Cats still need to go to the vet, no matter how much of a struggle it is, but telemedicine opens up a world for cat owners to show a veterinarian what's going on when they're in their own home. As Dutch puts it, “Telemedicine acts as a front door to health care and brings more pets into the health care system—especially those that otherwise don’t see a veterinarian at all.”

"Pet owners want more and more information about their pet when they’re at home," says Jeannine Taaffe, head of digital health at Kinship, a company using emerging technologies to improve the pet care space. "At-home diagnostics will be transformational for cats. Because they’re so stressed out at the vet, their blood work and urine levels can be inaccurate. Vets don't always have an accurate baseline. It’s really challenging."

Best for: People with vets in-network Available on: iOS , Android Cost: Varies by practice

TeleVet's app is among the easiest to navigate if your vet is in-network. Just create a profile for your pet and connect it with the veterinarian your pet already sees. It shows exactly how much your vet charges for this service and what hours they are responsive. To request an appointment, fill out a few fields—summary, details, any videos or pictures—and select if you'd like to video chat or talk on the phone. Add your method of payment, and submit. Your vet will then reach out to schedule an appointment.

Hannah Lau, a vet at the Adobe Animal Hospital in Los Altos, California, uses TeleVet and says her appointments usually involve walking clients through mini exams—asking them to show a pet's gums, counting respirations per minute, letting the pet trot so she can see them move.

"You get clients really involved and engaged in their pet's health," she says. "I think it makes them feel like an advocate for their pet, and that way they can see what my thought process is as well."

Best for: Answers to general questions Available on: Web Cost: Free for chats; video calls free for Autoship customers, $20 for others

Chewy is one of my favorite companies. It's convenient and has excellent customer service—what other company randomly sends out paintings of your pet?! When Chewy launched Connect With a Vet, it was free only for Autoship customers, but now chats are free for everyone.

If you automatically get food or other goods shipped to your doorstep every few weeks or months, you're a Chewy Autoship customer. It doesn't cost anything to start Autoship, and you can edit or cancel whenever you need to. Video calls are still free for Autoship members only, and $20 for everyone else. It's also free for most of Chewy's CarePlus insurance plan members.

The service is available every day from 6 am to midnight ET, so it's not for middle-of-the-night emergencies, and it's not yet available in Alaska or Hawaii. But if it's available in your state and you want a quick chat, it's a nice option.

Best for: All-year care and emergencies—when you need answers to general questions instantly Available on: Web , iOS , Android   Cost: $99 a year + optional $19 per month for emergency fund

Pawp's service has changed since I first tried it and is now focused on continuous virtual appointments in between your in-person ones. You'll be able to build relationships with the vets, just like you do when you visit an office, and they can help you build a care plan and purchase medications through Pawp's pharmacy—the company says that each pet will soon be matched with their own “care coordinator." Now you can follow up on general health concerns, ask basic questions, or call up a vet in an instant in case of an emergency.

Unfortunately, the $3,000 emergency fund isn't part of the yearly price, so you'll have to opt in to the additional $19 per month charge. It still ends up being cheaper in the long run than most of the other services. If you decide to go that route, the fund is available after 14 days of use to cover unexpected (i.e., emergency) vet bills for up to six pets. You'll have to start a virtual call with a Pawp vet first to confirm your emergency—still, it's more than is offered by most other services and even some pet insurance companies. The fund can only be used once a year, even if the emergency costs less than the fund. You can read what's covered by the emergency fund here .

You'll have to sign up for the free trial first in order to get access to this $99 option.

Best for: Treating a chronic condition; regular video chats Available on: Web Cost: $132 a year ($11 a month) or $35 a month without commitment

Dutch was one of the first telemedicine services to get your pet prescription medications. Dutch connects you with Dutch-affiliated but independent veterinary dermatologists and behavioralists to treat conditions like allergies and anxiety, or for regular tele-triaging and advice. Anything that would require blood work or other lab tests, or physically feeling something like a tumor, can't be diagnosed this way.

If you live in a state where remote VCPRs are legal, you can get a treatment plan within 48 hours that includes prescription medications, as well as training and behavioral exercises, as necessary. The company recommends that you still see a regular in-person veterinarian, as there are things pets need that can only be administered that way—think blood work and vaccines.

If you live somewhere that doesn't allow this method of prescription or you don't need the service, you can still take advantage of Dutch to chat with vets about non-emergency issues you've noticed. I talked to a vet who recommended Feliway, which is not a prescription, for my cats after we moved, and she was able to put it in my cart I could purchase it if I wanted to. The service did not feel like a sales pitch—my in-person vet recommended the same thing.

Best for: Emergencies—when you need answers to general questions instantly Available on: iOS , Android Cost: $35 a month or $75 for one video chat

You can talk to the vet your pet already sees if they're part of Airvet's network, or talk to any of the licensed vets listed in the app through video or chat. You can also switch between the two options as needed, which is handy if you're trying to connect when your vet isn't available. The goal is to get you connected with an expert immediately, be it for emergencies or to get a question answered. Airvet now has a $3,000 emergency fund like Pawp. The terms are the same: It can be used once per year and is available after 14 days of membership. You'll have to contact the team through the Airvet app to be sure the emergency qualifies.

Using Airvet is pretty straightforward. You create profiles for your pets with their breed, age, and weight, and you can note things like prior or existing health problems. If you have your vet connected, it will tell you if they're available at that time. If not, you can choose the "Need Help Now" option to start a video call. From there, you're asked to select a problem from a list of 10, ranging from general medical questions, ear infections, and throwing up to behavioral problems. You can also attach photos. I was connected in less than a minute with a vet who has been practicing for more than 45 years.

You can go through your case history to refer back to vets you've spoken with, which is a nice extra. It also tells you which practice each vet works in.

Best for: General pet questions and support Available on: iOS , Android Cost: Free

Sometimes you don't need to speak to a veterinarian. You may just want to chat with other pet parents for advice on how they got their dog to tolerate snow booties or get tips for moving across the country with cats. That's where the pet food company Blue Buffalo's Buddies app sits.

The Connect tab is like a much better version of Facebook, where people only share animal pics and ask questions about pet behavior. You can also chat with a Pet Buff, pet owners employed by Blue Buffalo (these are not vets) who can answer on-demand questions about general care or provide more info on the brand's ingredients and products. This is good if you want to bounce a thought off someone. There's even a cute meme generator if you want to share funny pics of your pet to your office Slack and a timeline to keep track of vet appointments, history, and milestones.

If you already use Blue Buffalo products, you can redeem points—earned by doing basic things in the app, like setting up a pet profile or speaking with a Pet Buff—for treats and food. If you're considering switching, talk to your vet and be aware that there is a class-action lawsuit against the company for falsely advertising its ingredients as healthy . (The company couldn't comment on the ongoing case. I do not feed my cats Blue Buffalo food, but we still like this free service.)

Best for: People with vets in-network, for organizing your pet's medical information Available on: iOS , Android Cost: Varies by practice; app organization features are free

PetDesk is a telemedicine app with a perk. Not only does it connect you to your pet's vet via video chat, but it also offers an easy way to keep track of your pet's medications, appointments, and other needs.

All of your pet's information is in one spot, including name and contact information for vets, preferred emergency animal hospitals, and groomers. From the homepage, you can see what's open, make calls, visit respective websites, and in some cases request an appointment directly in the app or start a video call.

Once you create a pet profile, you can save health records and prescriptions. In the To-Do tab, you can create reminders for giving your pet medication, restocking food and supplies, and scheduling checkups. You can also request birthday notifications. While you will need to have an in-network vet to make virtual appointments, anyone can use the service as a free medical dashboard for their pet's records.

Best for: Emergencies—when you need answers to general questions instantly Available on: Web , iOS , Android Cost: $10 a month

AskVet follows a similar formula. I connected in less than a minute to a vet tech, who then asked me a follow-up question and routed me to a veterinarian. The whole process took less than two minutes. That holds up with the company's claim that the average time to be assisted is one minute. The app has been updated since the first time I used it, and it includes connecting with pet parents (like Buddies) and other informational articles. There are also now options for training, along with behavior and wellness coaching.

Chat sessions can go as long as you need. The longest, according to Laura Berg, vice president of business development at AskVet, was four hours, when a pet had to go to the emergency room. The vet found a nearby emergency room, called and prepped them for the patient, and then switched from chat to phone call with the owner to stay with them while they drove to the ER and waited. Once your chat is over, you'll get a transcript of the conversation emailed to you. You can also refer back to it on the site's history tab.

Another perk? You can access an emergency fund of up to $1,000. Your fund grows by $45 a month until it reaches the $1,000 cap. It's not as convenient as Pawp or Airvet, which give you a $3,000 fund after 14 days.

If you still haven't found something you like, try one of these services.

• Whisker Docs is pricey at $40 for an instant call or chat, but you can opt to pay $17 a month or $130 a year for unlimited support. If your question isn't pressing, an email costs $5.
• Fuzzy costs $25 a month for a subscription. The service has 24/7 chat support that's quick and helpful, but I didn't like how product-heavy it is—it recommends products via a pet health quiz without having you actually speak to a vet. If you use Fuzzy, take its product recommendations to your in-person vet to make sure they're suitable for your pet. This goes for any vet telemedicine service.

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Top 10 Best Virtual Vets: Veterinary Telemedicine For Your Pets

While a global pandemic may have made the need for virtual vet visits much greater, online health care for pets has been a growing industry for a while. With convenient times, options and pricing, telemedicine for pets makes a lot of sense. We’ve scoped out the best veterinary telemedicine services around.

Veterinary Telemedicine is very similar to human telemedicine/telehealth appointments in a lot of respects. Obviously, if your pet is in need of in-person veterinary care for whatever reason, you’ll want to contact your veterinarian and schedule that appointment.

But sometimes, the anxiety of the vet can be overwhelming for a pet, particularly if it’s essentially something that can be talked about or is a fairly easy-to-identify issue.

Veterinary telemedicine allows you to speak to either a veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian over video, voice or text and that peace of mind can be priceless.

Sometimes, what you think may be a major issue is minor and a quick talk with a licensed professional (without having to go into the office with your pet) can make a huge difference for you both.

The answer to that is “Yes, they do, ” and, “No, they don’t.” True telemedicine will be able to offer (some) diagnosis and prescription services, but typically requires a vet client-patient relationship (VCPR) according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. What that means is that a vet must have seen your pet in person first, typically within a year, in order to do phone/video diagnosis or prescribing of medicine.

More and more online practices are encouraging their patients to participate–having them come in for that initial meet-and-greet and look over so that should emergency pop up, they’re able to schedule a telemedicine appointment with you at your convenience.

Telehealth services for your pet also include what is typically called Teletriage and generally speaking, that’s what most pet parents are lookng for when they feel like their dog’s poo looks a little off or their kitty seems to be eating less and hiding more than usual. Pet parents want to be able to get in touch with a professional with ease and when they need to.

That’s where Teletriage comes in handy. Most of the time, pet parents really just need triage, general advice, guidance and support from their veterinarian and vet techs, and that’s just what most veterinary telemedicine services will offer exactly when they need it. Experience speaking here, but we find that’s often at 1:00 am after Fifi has lost her cookies twice that night and your vet’s office is obviously closed.

In a nutshell? Veterinary telemedicine is a great option for the same reasons that many telehealth for human appointments are. They are typically offered on super-convenient schedules for you, which makes them easily accessible for most.

They’re an affordable way for your pet to ‘see’ a vet at almost anytime of the day or night, and can often preempt an otherwise super expensive trip to the local emergency animal hospital just to find out a teaspoon of salt may have been all your dog needed to barf up that sinus infection antibiotic of yours they scarfed off the counter. True story, and for the record, our vet said that the medicine wouldn’t hurt our dog, but it sure was nice to just be able to do a quick telehealth chat with our vet to find that out.

And most of all, though virtual vet vists can obviously replace the need to see the vet in-person sometimes, the peace of mind you can get about your pet’s well-being from the comfort of your own (and their) home is priceless. It can mean the difference between that expensive emergency hospital run or just waiting until the morning when your vet is in the office and can see your pet in-person (if needed) and is often much less stress on your pet too.

Pawp is both a digital clinic for pets and a pet insurance alternative, offering you on-demand, unlimited 24/7 vet care via text and video – as well as $3,000 a year for ER vet bills. This way, you’ll get both the guidance and advice that can help you discern between minor issues that don’t require a vet visit and coverage when there’s an actual emergency, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket. The digital clinic services don’t require appointments or wait times, and can be a perfect way to get quick answers about your pet’s health, behavior, and nutrition, or just get a second opinion for your pet’s treatment or diagnosis. When it comes to emergencies, Pawp will cover the bills even if the emergency relates to a pre-existing condition and will pay any vet in the US directly, even before you leave the clinic – no copay, deductibles, or credit checks needed.

What’s more, a single Pawp membership covers up to 6 pets within a single household at no extra cost, regardless of their age, breed, or pre-existing conditions. Perfect for multi-pet households on a budget! If you’re curious and would like to see how Pawp works, you’re in luck – Pawp offers a 7-day free trial to try their service before committing to a membership.

Still, even if not free, they’re reasonably priced and in just a few minutes, you can chat with a vet who can guide you through situations and help you know when it’s time to seek in-person help for your pet. They can even help you arrange that as they walk you through, and you can have a transcript of each convo/interaction in case your in-person vet or an emergency vet needs it. Sometimes, all you need is some talking through, and Ask.Vet excels at that.

5. PetCoach

7. WhiskerDoc s

8. Fuzzy Pet Health

10. TelePaws

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If you are regularly finding ticks in your dog’s coat, you might be wondering if there’s something special about your pooch that makes it more prone to attracting these blood-sucking pests than other dogs. Well, a new study can shed some light. Researchers from Royal Veterinary Colledge (RVC) have discovered that some dog breeds are more likely to become infested by ticks. The study revealed that popular designer crossbreeds such as cavapoo, cockapoo, goldendoodle, and cavachon have an increased risk of tick infestation due to their poodle heritage. Researchers identified standard poodles as the second most likely breed to become infested by ticks, suggesting that ticks find the poodle’s curly coat particularly appealing. “There is no single perfect dog breed so it is critical that we fully understand the strengths and weaknesses for the breed we choose to bring into our own family. Owners of dogs that are either poodle or have poodle heritage can now be aware of the need to routinely check their dogs for ticks and to perhaps ensure the coats of these dogs are kept short,” said Dr. Dan O’Neil, lead author of the study. Designer dog breeds have become extremely popular among pet lovers in recent years. Poodles are often crossed with other pure breeds to create designer hybrids, mainly because of their low-shedding coats which are considered hypoallergenic. However, this new study points out that designer dogs are at an increased risk of tick infestations because of the poodle’s curly coat. The RVC’s VetCommpass study analyzed a random sample of veterinary health records of 900,000 dogs in the UK. The results showed that ticks are a common parasite in dogs, with one in every 50 dogs diagnosed with at least one tick infestation during five years. Researchers also looked at possible risk factors to understand what makes some dogs more likely to attract ticks than others. The possible risk factors included traits such as skull shape, breed purity, coat, and body weight. While the study found that newer designer breeds had a higher risk of tick infestation, it also discovered that some pure breeds are also at high risk. These included the cairn terrier, standard poodle, golden retriever, Person Russell terrier, and miniature schnauzer. Interestingly, researchers have established that Staffordshire bull terriers, rottweilers, Chihuahuas, and English bulldogs have the lowest risks of tick infestation. The study also found that male dogs had a 1.24 higher risk of attracting ticks than female dogs. Dogs with medium-length coats and pooches with V-shaped drop, or long, floppy ears also exhibited an increased risk of tick infestation. “Ticks aren’t just pests that feast on your dog and cause them to itch; they can also be carriers of serious diseases. They can be dangerous for any age of dog and indeed any breed - although this paper shows that some dogs can be more susceptible to picking them up due to their coat - so it’s important owners know what to do if they spot one,” said Bill Lambert, Welfare and Breeding Service Executive at The Kennel Club. Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that attach to a dog’s skin and can stay there for up to a week, before falling off when they are full of blood. In addition to feeding on a dog’s blood, ticks also transmit diseases. The most common tick-borne diseases that affect dogs are Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, hepatozoonosis, and bartonellosis. These are serious diseases that can have detrimental health consequences for dogs if not treated in time. Although ticks normally live in woodlands and grasslands, they can be found in urban areas and popular hiking trails. The best way to protect your pooch is to stay up to date with your dog’s tick prevention. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Young or Old Pets? Let's Agree Our Floors Sure Can Take a Beating

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Is Fetch a Safe Game for My Dog?

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Everyone these days is feeling the effects of increased prices for everything from groceries and medical care to recreation and pet care. But a survey by LendingTree, which involved 1,991 consumers between the ages of 18 and 78 in the United States, found that Gen Zers, in particular, are struggling with affording their pets because of the rising cost of living.

Why Is My Puppy Whining?

While bringing a puppy home can be such a joyful and exciting event, it doesn’t mean it’s without challenges –especially for first-time dog owners. One of the (many) burning questions new puppy parents have is why their pet is whining and if it’s a sign of distress. Simply put, just like human babies, puppies need to communicate with the brand-new world around them. They do this by whining, which is their number one tool for expressing fear, hunger, frustration, or anything in between. The nuances can be difficult to spot when you’re not experienced with puppies, but once you know what to look for, it will be easy to differ when your puppy is whining because they are looking for a second breakfast or if it’s a more serious cause.Why Is My Puppy Whining? 5 Most Common Reasons for Puppy WhiningOne of the most common reasons why a puppy would whine is attention seeking. When faced with a new environment and away from their parents, puppies will usually feel scared and lonely, particularly if you are away. So, when they whine, they ask for comfort and company. Remember that these are social creatures, especially at such an early age, and if they feel neglected, they will whine until someone reacts. That is why it is crucial not to underestimate this need and to provide your puppy with lots of attention, playtime, and dog toys that would keep them engaged and feeling secure. Of course, it is not always about attention. Puppies will often whine to communicate that they are hungry or thirsty. Unlike adult dogs, puppies need multiple meals throughout the day, so make sure that you keep a regular feeding schedule that suits your puppy's developmental needs. In case your puppy is whining when it's close to meal time, it might just be their way of reminding you that it’s time to eat. Sometimes, the reason for a puppy to whine might be super simple, like fear and anxiety. After all, new environments, unfamiliar people, and loud noises are enough to scare anyone, let alone a fragile little puppy. One of the particular sources of anxiety for them is separation. They will quickly build a connection with you, and as soon as you leave, they might feel abandoned. To relieve this anxiety and minimize their whining, you should provide them with a source of comfort, like a favorite plush toy, a blankie, or even a piece of your clothing. 

Kevin the Gentle Giant Crowned World’s Tallest Dog

Some dogs are simply born to be famous! Some do it with their accomplishments, others with their latest tricks, but Kevin the Great Dane did it with nothing else but his size. He is officially recognized as the world’s tallest living dog, and he is described as a true gentle giant.Named after the main character from the movie “Home Alone”, Kevin officially claimed the world record title after he was measured at 3ft 2in (0.97 meters) from his feet to his withers. For comparison, that is the average height of a three-year-old child. An average Great Dane, on the other hand, is around 2ft 6in (0.76 meters) to the withers. The record was previously held by another Great Dane, Zeus, who tragically died at the age of three this past year, leaving the title to Kevin. Living in West Des Moines, Iowa, USA, Kevin is in the loving care of his owners – Tracy and Roger Wolfe, and their children, Alexander (12) and Ava (10). He is not the only pet in the family: he is accompanied by three other doggos, four cats, and a multitude of chickens, horses, and goats. And, besides being so tall and majestic, Kevin is just an ordinary pooch. He loves to snooze on the couch and won’t hesitate to protest if his favorite spot is taken. Still, his owners describe him as a real gentle giant. According to Tracy Wolfe, he is a true fan of snuggles and is very afraid of the vacuum cleaner. He was similarly spooked by the officials who came to measure him for his record. The measuring tape really gave him the heebie-jeebies. “Kevin is the epitome of a gentle giant,” Tracy said. “In fact, he is scared of most things. He is terrified of the vacuum. He won't let it come within 6 feet of him! He will jump and run to get away from it.”Kevin’s owner Tracy, herself employed at a vet clinic, says that he is just a big baby, and often acts as if he has no idea how big he is. “When Kevin, or any of my dogs, come to my clinic, I put a baby gate up in the door of my office. That way I can keep my door open, but keep the dogs in,” she added. “Kevin is hilarious. He will be in there and stay whenever I am in there. However, if I leave, he just steps right over the baby gate like it's nothing! I don’t think he’s aware he is as big as he is. He’s continuously trying to squeeze into small beds and sit on top of us, and do everything that the smaller dogs do.”Of course, as all dogs do, Kevin also has his naughty side. He is adept at snatching food off of counters, aided by his great height. “Kevin can be stubborn,” Tracy said. “He can be naughty. It’s usually food-related. Otherwise, he’s usually a pretty good kid.”

Dogs Can Smell When You’re Stressed

Researchers have discovered that dogs can smell human stress and it can affect the way they make decisions. The study was conducted in the United Kingdom, and helps shed more light on how dogs can be impacted by the emotions experienced by people.

Leave it to a Frenchie to Make Medical History

LiveScience reports French bulldog puppy spontaneously regrows jawbone after cancer surgery.

Dog Soundboard Buttons - the Jury's Back On Whether They Work

You might just be surprised at your dog's communication skills.

FIP Treatment Now Available for Cats

As of June 1, 2024, pet parents can get the FIP treatment they need for their cats, but there is some confusion about this. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal condition, but pet parents have been using a drug, GS-441524, to cure their cats (though the drug is not always effective in all cases). Despite the success of the treatment, the problem has been that the drug was only available on the black market, so people would access it with the help of groups on social media since vets weren’t able to prescribe it.

New Rules Bring Rescues In While Keeping Rabies Out

Centers for Disease Control has some big news for anyone wanting to bring that cute little rescue home to the US.

Will This Golden Help Bring Home the Gold?

Therapy dog Beacon is a key staff member for the USA Gymnastics team.

Can You Potty Train a Parrot?

Parrots are known as very fun pets and quite intelligent creatures. They are adored all across the globe, in all their various sizes and colors. But, as many parrot owners know, they can be messy with how and where they poop. And often, it can require a lot of cleaning up. So it is only natural that owners are wondering - can you potty train a parrot? While this might seem like a daunting task, with a bit of patience and consistency, it is actually doable. These birds are smart and are capable of learning behaviors, including where and when to poop. Now, keep in mind that training them won’t be the same as with a dog, but with the right approach, it can be a simple process.How to Potty Train a Parrot: Step by StepBefore you tackle this process of potty training your bird, it is crucial to understand how parrots behave. Naturally, these are rather clean animals. In their wild, natural habitat, parrots tend to relieve themselves away from their nests, as to avoid attracting predators. And this exact instinct can be utilized during potty training. However, keep in mind that parrots don’t have control over their bowel movements like humans do. They often relieve themselves every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on their size and diet. Knowing this, you can plan your training sessions accordingly.#1 The first step in your potty training process is to choose a specific command or cue. This could be a simple word, such as “poop” or “potty”, or even a specific hand signal. The key is consistency - use the same command each time. #2 Next, you want to pay close attention to your parrot’s natural behavior. Notice when they are about to relieve themselves - common signs include tail lifting or squatting. Understanding this routine will help you anticipate when they need to “go”.#3 Decide on a specific spot where you want your parrot to go potty. This can be their perch, a spot in their cage or enclosure, or a paper-lined area. By repeatedly taking your parrot to this spot when you see they need to “go”, they will begin to associate the area with the act.

These are the Most Popular Dog Breeds In Different US Cities

There’s no doubt that dogs are by far the most popular pets in the U.S., with roughly 65.1 million homes having one or more dogs as pets. But not all breeds are loved equally, according to the latest studies from the American Pet Products Association. Certain dog breeds seem a bit more loved by Americans than others and these rankings are a great insight into their popularity in different cities. The North American Pet Health Insurance Association also reports that the number of insured pets in the U.S. has increased around 22.6% annually since 2020, which indicates that doggos are continuing to steal the spotlight as the most famous pets around. In fact, the vast majority of insured pets in the country are dogs.  U.S. News & World Report analyzed all this data to reveal the five most popular dog breeds in 25 major U.S. cities, indicating some very unique dog ownership trends. 1. Austin, Texas:GoldendoodleFrench BulldogLabrador RetrieverGolden RetrieverSiberian Husky2. Boston, MassachusettsGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdShih TzuBichon FriseCavalier King Charles Spaniel3. Charlotte, North CarolinaGolden RetrieverGoldendoodleEnglish Springer SpanielBrittany SpanielFrench Bulldog4. Chicago, IllinoisGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogMiniature Dachshund5. Columbus, OhioGolden RetrieverRottweilerAustralian ShepherdBernese Mountain DogSilken Windhound6. Dallas, TexasFrench BulldogLabrador Retriever (Yellow)Cane CorsoGolden RetrieverPembroke Welsh Corgi7. Denver, ColoradoGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogGerman ShepherdMalteseAmerican Pit Bull Terrier8. El Paso, TexasShih TzuGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogSchnauzerLabrador Retriever9. Fort Worth, TexasGoldendoodleGerman ShepherdMaltesePugBeagle10. Houston, TexasGoldendoodleGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogChihuahuaPomeranian11. Indianapolis, IndianaShih TzuChihuahuaAmerican BullyAmerican Pit Bull TerrierGoldendoodle12. Jacksonville, FloridaGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogBoxerToy PoodleAmerican Bully13. Las Vegas, NevadaFrench BulldogGolden RetrieverGoldendoodleAustralian ShepherdShih Tzu14. Los Angeles, CaliforniaFrench BulldogGolden RetrieverChihuahuaEnglish BulldogGoldendoodle15. Nashville, TennesseeGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverLagotto RomagnoloLabrador RetrieverSiberian Husky16. New York, New YorkGolden RetrieverYorkshire TerrierGoldendoodleShih TzuFrench Bulldog17. Oklahoma City, OklahomaGerman ShepherdEnglish BulldogGreat PyreneesMiniature SchnauzerYorkshire Terrier18. Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaGolden RetrieverYorkshire TerrierChihuahuaShih TzuAmerican Pit Bull Terrier19. Phoenix, ArizonaGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdChihuahuaAustralian ShepherdFrench Bulldog20. San Antonio, TexasLabrador Retriever (Yellow)PugFrench BulldogChihuahuaGerman Shepherd21. San Diego, CaliforniaGolden RetrieverPugFrench BulldogLabrador Retriever (Yellow)Labrador Retriever22. San Francisco, CaliforniaGoldendoodleChihuahuaShih TzuGerman ShepherdPomeranian23. San Jose, CaliforniaGerman ShepherdGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverPembroke Welsh CorgiToy Poodle24. Seattle, WashingtonGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogDachshundGoldendoodlePoodle25. Washington, D.C.French BulldogPoodle Golden RetrieverSoft-Coated Wheaten TerrierGoldendoodleIt's clear that in many of America’s largest cities, certain breeds are more popular than others, like the Goldendoodle, Golden Retriever, and French Bulldog. Poodles, Pugs, and German Shepherds are also close at the top. We can also spot some regional trends as well. For example, the German Shepherd is quite popular in Texas, mainly for its role as a working and service dog.What about you? What is your favorite dog breed and why? Does your personal fave align with your city’s most popular breeds? Tell us in the comments!

Step Back in Time with The Snack Pack from Bark

Do you remember those Saturday mornings, nestled in front of the TV with a bowl of your favorite cereal, surrounded by the colorful characters from your childhood? The laughter, the joy, the yummy goodness – it’s a time we all hold dear in our hearts. But what if we told you that now, your furry best friend can get to enjoy it too?Introducing The Snack Pack by Bark – the ultimate throwback to the golden era of breakfast cereals, reimagined for your beloved canine companion. Just like the beloved cereal boxes that were a regular centerpiece on our kitchen tables, The Snack Pack comes complete with vibrant packaging, quirky mascots, and a whole lot of nostalgia. The collection includes:BARK Frosted Socks™: Crunchy, yogurt berry dog treats made with real fruit and yogurtBARK Fruity Toot Loops™: Crunchy, mixed berry dog treats made with real fruit and nutritious grainsBARK Go Nuttys™: Honey peanut flavored soft-baked dog treats made with nutritious grainsBARK Lucky Duckies™: A turducken recipe soft-baked dog treat packed with proteinBARK Clucky Nuggy Yums™: Chicken nugget recipe soft-baked dog treat packed with protein and nutritious grainsBARK Beefy Meat Hunks™: Soft and meaty beef recipe dog treats packed with protein and nutritious grainsBARK Porky Meat Hunks™: Soft and meaty pork recipe dog treats packed with protein and nutritious grainsAnother cool thing about these snacks is that inside every treat box awaits a delightful surprise. A QR code, reminiscent of the secret codes you used to decipher from the back of cereal boxes, leads you to a world of fun and excitement. With a simple ‘scritch’, you could reveal prizes ranging from a year of BarkBox, to free toys and treats, or even fun mini-games that will keep you and your pup entertained for hours on end.But the Snack Pack isn’t just ridiculously silly, it’s Ridiculously Nutritious™! Made with real fruit, nutritious grains, and protein-packed ingredients, these treats are not only delicious but also provide your furry friend with the fuel they need for endless rounds of fetch and hours of zoomies. And with absolutely no corn or soy, and no artificial preservatives, you can rest assured knowing that you’re giving your dog nothing but the best.If you want to make every day feel like a Saturday morning cartoon marathon with your furry best friend by your side, treat them to a taste of nostalgia with The Snack Pack by Bark. Whether you’re reliving your own childhood memories or creating new ones with your beloved pet, these ridiculously nutritious treats are guaranteed to bring a smile to both your faces. Backed by Bark’s 100% Happiness Guarantee, you can embark on this nostalgic journey knowing that you and your pup are in for a treat – quite literally!

Cats Grieve, According to Study

Pet parents know how difficult it is to lose a companion, but some people are unsure of whether cats grieve like people do when another pet dies. A recent study has revealed that, yes, cats do grieve. Keep reading to learn about how the study was conducted and what the researchers discovered.

Are Mutts Healthier than Purebreds? New Study Says NO!

Are mixed-breed dogs really healthier? A new study of more than 27,000 companion dogs discovered that mutts are just as likely to experience health issues as their purebred counterparts. It turns out that a smaller gene pool doesn’t make purebred dogs more prone to common doggy ailments when compared to mixed-breed dogs. The study led by researchers from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that while certain purebreds are prone to specific health problems, both purebreds and mixed-breeds are equal in terms of the overall frequency of health condition diagnoses. “There are several well-known diseases that frequently occur in specific dog breeds,” explained Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project and a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. “This has helped perpetuate the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to diseases, but that is not the case.”The study, which surveyed a total of 27,541 dogs, identified 25 breeds that made up around 60% of the purebred dog population within the Dog Aging Project. Those breeds include Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, poodle, Australian shepherd, dachshund, border collie, Chihuahua, beagle, Pembroke Welsh corgi, boxer, shih tzu, miniature schnauzer, pug, Havanese, cavalier King Charles spaniel, Great Dane, greyhound, Boston terrier, Siberian husky, Shetland sheepdog, English springer spaniel, Australian cattle dog, and Doberman pinscher. Scientists found that within these 25 breeds, 53 medical conditions make up the top owner-reported medical issues. “The medical conditions reported by owners varied considerably,” said Creevy. “However, some conditions appeared frequently in the top 10 reported health conditions by breed.”The 10 health conditions most reported for purebred dogs include dental calculus (hardened plaque), dog bites, extracted teeth, giardia, osteoarthritis, seasonal allergies, ear infections, heart murmur, fractured teeth, and cataracts. For mixed-breed dogs, the top 10 conditions were nearly the same, with cataracts and heart murmur being replaced with torn/broken toenails and chocolate toxicity. Some maladies, such as dental calculus and osteoarthritis appeared roughly the same in purebreds and mutts. However, some conditions were more commonly seen in one than the other. For example, purebreds had more extracted teeth, and dog bites, while mixed-breeds had more ear infections. Out of 53 owner-reported medical conditions, 26 didn’t differ significantly between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. What’s more interesting is that 22.3% of owners of purebred dogs reported their canine companions having no health issues, compared to 20.7% of mixed-breed owners, meaning that purebred dogs were healthier than mixed-breed dogs. The most important finding of this study is that dog breed is just one aspect of pet health to think about when creating a dog care plan, or researching what kind of dog to adopt. “People should consider many factors when choosing a dog, including environment, lifestyle, social interactions and physical activity that will be available to the dog,” said Creevy. “Planning for both preventative care and medical care as the dog ages is also prudent. Dog owners should also talk with their primary care veterinarians about the kinds of medical problems to which their new dog might be particularly prone based on breed, size, sex, etc.” Researchers think that the main reason people believe mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebreds is because certain breeds of dogs suffer from well-known health problems. For example, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, poodles are more likely to get glaucoma, and Great Danes are prone to bloat. The fact that some purebreds are susceptible to breed-specific diseases, while mixed-breeds aren’t has contributed to the myth that purebred dogs are more likely to get sick than their mixed-breed counterparts. We now know that’s not the case thanks to this new study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

People Online are Losing it Over Real-Life Rainbow Bridge Memorial

Social media has become a powerful space for pet parents to share the joys and challenges of living with their furry companions. From heartwarming adoptions to hilarious antics, our online feeds are filled with proof of the special bond that is formed between pets and their humans. But there is another side to pet ownership, a bittersweet time when we could use the understanding of other pet parents. That is, of course, the inevitable loss of a beloved pet and the emotions that come with it. A recent viral video has sparked a wave of shared grief and emotion on TikTok.The video, originally posted by @onlyjulianamarie on TikTok, shares a beautiful real-life “Rainbow Bridge” memorial in Lake Lure, NC. It includes a literal rainbow bridge upon which countless pet owners have placed collars of all colors and sizes to memorialize the pets that have left a lasting mark on their hearts. Many of the collars include tags adorned with the name of a special pet or a heartfelt engraved message. Others are nameless; their stories known only to the loving pet parents who placed them there.

Talk to a vet online with FirstVet

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Create an account using your email address and cell phone number. Next, you’ll be asked to create a profile for each of your pets.

2. Your FirstVet video call

Speak to our experienced vets through a video consultation.

3. Get the record sent to your email

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News and articles

Vomiting and Diarrhea in Dogs

A Vet’s Advice: Eye Exams and Eye Care for Your Pets

Common Ear Problems in Dogs

Vomiting and Diarrhea in Cats

Ditch the Itch: Skin Allergies in Dogs

Common Ear Problems in Cats

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14 Places to Get a Virtual Vet Visit Online

WRITTEN BY:

Kelsey Leicht

July 12, 2022

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

With the advancement of technology aimed at making our lives more connected (as well as a giant shove from the most recent global pandemic), you don’t always need to head over to your vet’s brick-and-mortar location anymore!

That’s right: Pet owners can now speak with a vet from the comfort of home . 

Virtual vet visits aren’t just convenient; they’re also less stressful for dogs than heading to a physical office. 

Below, we’ll explain what to expect from a remote vet appointment and share the best places to get a virtual vet visit for your pooch.

Places to Get a Virtual Vet Visit Online: Quick Picks

• #1 Pawp [Best Overall Place to Get a Virtual Vet Visit] : With unlimited chat and video vet consultations for up to six pets per membership and a nifty annual emergency reimbursement perk, this service is a mutt must-have.
• #2 AirVet [Runner Up for Best Overall Place to Get a Virtual Vet Visit]: With on-demand and subscription-based options, AirVet is an exceptionally flexible model with perks like emergency financing and 24/7 video calls (for subscribing members).
• #3 Vetster [Best Subscription-Free Place to Get a Virtual Vet Visit]: Skip monthly commitments and opt for on-demand care with this remote provider of vet care offering 24/7 care with vets in your state.
• #4 Hello Ralphie [Most Affordable Place to Get a Virtual Vet Visit] : Save your doggy dollars with this wallet-friendly option, offering on-demand appointments with no subscription starting at just $35.

What Kinds of Services Can You Get from a Virtual Vet Visit?

In many ways, a virtual vet visit is a lot like a traditional appointment, covering common canine concerns like:

• Allergies (non-life-threatening)
• Ear infections
• Mild vomiting or diarrhea
• Nutrition advice
• Flea and tick prevention
• Motion sickness
• Eye discharge

What exactly can be addressed via virtual vet appointment varies by your location and the provider , however, as laws surrounding the vet-client-pet relationship (VCPR) differ in every state .

Some bar vets from writing prescriptions for virtual patients, for instance.

Virtual visits for everyday issues are great if your dog has mobility issues, anxiety, or experiences car sickness. They can also take the burden off you if transportation isn’t readily available or you’re dealing with health concerns.

Skip a virtual vet visit and opt for an in-person or emergency appointment for more serious mutt maladies, including:

• Severe vomiting or diarrhea
• Breathing difficulties
• Suspected poisoning
• Suspected digestive obstruction
• Vomiting or diarrhea in medically-sensitive dogs

Our Ask A Vet feature is great for answering any questions when your vet isn’t available.

Similar to tele-triage, this service doesn’t diagnose or prescribe medications, but it can clear the air around your most pressing pup questions and help you decide if immediate care or an in-person exam is necessary.

Check out Ask a Vet Now! 

The Best Places to Get a Virtual Vet Visit

Virtual vet services are popping up left and right, but we’ve sniffed through them and retrieved our favorites. Check out these awesome options.

This is a sponsored placement , in which an advertiser pays a fee to be featured in this article. Learn more

A subscription-based service offering unlimited consultations, including text chats and video calls, for one low monthly fee.

About: Pawp is a subscription service offering 24/7 vet advice for up to six dogs or cats in one household for only $24 a month. Fill your pets’ existing prescriptions through Pawp’s pharmacy, where many medications are offered at a discount rate.

• Unlimited video and text consultations provided with membership
• $3000 coverage for one veterinary emergency annually
• Covers dogs of any age, breed, or size (including those with preexisting conditions!)
• Can be canceled at any time
• Super affordable
• Excellent choice for multi-pet families
• Unlimited consultations earn a tail wag
• Emergency fee coverage is a major perk
• Subscription-based services aren’t ideal for everyone
• These vets can’t prescribe medication

Check out our in-depth look at Pawp for more information.

2. AirVet 

A virtual vet app offering on-demand appointments and subscription-based care, all at affordable rates.

About: AirV et lets you choose between an on-demand $30-per-call design or an ongoing membership for $30 a month. Allowing up to six pets per membership and unlimited video calls 24/7, it’s a unique hybrid model of on-demand and subscription coverage. 

• Covers the U.S. and Canada
• Provides coverage for dogs of any age, including those with pre-existing conditions
• Annual $3000 fund for treating life-threatening emergencies (members only)
• You may be able to see your current vet (though the fees may differ from AirVet’s fees)
• On-demand and subscription options
• We love the $3000 annual fund
• Great choice for multi-pet families
• Doesn’t accept pet insurance
• They’re still building up a veterinary roster

An on-demand service offering round-the-clock video chat appointments with licensed vets in your state.

About: Nab a virtual appointment without a subscription using Vetster , an easy-to-use service offering 24/7 online vet coverage. Use their user-friendly app, available for Android and Apple users.

• Browse from vets located in your state
• Customer reviews provided for each vet 
• Appointment fees and times listed upfront
• Prescriptions available to pets in applicable locations
• No ongoing subscription fees 
• 24/7 video chats offer fantastic flexibility
• You can choose between vets; you’re not simply assigned one
• Pricing varies significantly between vets
• Vet options limited in some locations

4. Chewy Connect With a Vet 

Chewy Connect With a Vet 

A convenient service offering one-click chats or scheduled video calls with a real vet without a subscription. .

About: Chewy’s Connect With a Vet service provides instant access to chat with a licensed pup provider or video calls that are scheduled at your convenience. Available as an on-demand service with no subscription, it’s a win for filling in the blanks when your regular vet isn’t available.

• Free for autoship customers
• $14.99 per chat session or $19.99 per 20-minute video call for non-autoship customers
• Access a vet 365 days a year between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET, including holidays
• Can be instantly directed to suggested solutions on Chewy
• Nutritional and behavioral advice also offered
• Extensive service hours available
• Free if you’re a autoship customer
• No subscription needed
• Not available outside the lower 48
• Cannot prescribe medications

5. Fuzzy Health

Fuzzy Health

A subscription-based veterinary service providing 24/7 access to pet health advice via chat or video..

About:  Fuzzy Health offers 24/7 virtual vet coverage, including chat and video sessions. Choose between an annual membership for a fee of $79 or a monthly fee of $24.99, and enjoy a host of benefits, including free shipping on vet-approved products.

• Vet-selected pet products offered at a discounted rate
• At-home stool and urine tests available
• All household pets are covered by one membership
• Free 7-day trial available
• Choose between annual and monthly plans 
• Free trial allows you to try the service before committing
• Can refill existing prescriptions
• Only covers dogs weighing between 5 and 132 pounds
• Cannot diagnose illness or prescribe medication

A handy app linking you to your current veterinarian for virtual visits, follow-up care, and questions.

About: TeleVet is a service that brings your vet home with a client-friendly app featuring scheduling, consultations, and more. Your vet needs to subscribe to Televet for the service to work, however, so not every clinic uses it.

• Schedule virtual follow-ups and request consultations
• Work with your current veterinarian for remote care
• Chat, call, and video formats available 
• Share photos and videos of your pup for your vet to review
• Provides virtual access to your current vet
• Easy-to-use app interface
• No subscription fees (just your vet’s appointment fee)
• Doesn’t offer 24/7 access like other virtual providers
• Not every vet is on the platform

7. Virtuwoof

An app-based service offering virtual veterinary care with participating pet healthcare providers.

About: Virtuwoof lets you connect with your vet from the comfort of your living room using its on-demand app. If your vet isn’t available, you can still connect with an Ask Virtuwoof Vet for trusted advice.

• Fees listed upfront for every vet
• Pay-as-you-go design with no subscription necessary
• Chat and live-video formats available
• Virtuwoof donates a portion of profits to animal shelters and vet education programs
• Lets your work with your vet on-the-go
• The app is simple and easy-to-navigate
• No ongoing subscription required
• Not every vet participates in the network
• Ask Virtuwoof Vet can only offer advice; they can’t provide a diagnosis

A telemedicine and tele-triage provider offering subscription-based care for up to five pets per membership.

About: Dutch has your pack’s back with unlimited vet chats and follow-ups, including video calls, for a monthly fee. Covering up to five pets per membership, it offers epic savings for everyday canine concerns. 

• Covers dogs and cats (perfect for multi-species households!)
• Pup plans start at $25 monthly, with annual plans also available for cost savings
• Offers online pet prescription services to permitted states with free shipping
• No restrictions on pets with pre-existing conditions
• Significant savings for multi-pet families
• Unlimited vet chats offer peace of mind
• Free shipping on medications
• Does not accept pet insurance 
• Not 24/7 like some other providers
• Subscription services aren’t everyone’s cup of tea

9. Hello Ralphie 

Hello Ralphie

An on-demand provider of remote veterinary care (and sometimes prescriptions) beginning at just $35 per appointment..

About: Hello Ralphie offers on-demand virtual vet appointments ranging from $35 to $55 per visit with no subscription necessary. Just log on, pick the appointment time that works for you, and get ready to chat.

• Choose between single appointments and cost-saving bundles
• Advice-only and advice-plus-prescription appointments available (where permitted)
• Some pet insurance companies provide reimbursement for appointments
• Schedule on the site or via Hello Ralphie’s app
• Excellent pricing and cost-saving bundles 
• Pet parents love the easy-to-use nature 
• Bundles expire after a year unless more are purchased
• An account is needed to view pricing

10. PetDesk

An app connecting you to your vet at home and empowering you to make appointments, request preventatives, and more.

About: PetDesk provides a virtual vet connection and stores all your dog’s information in one place, saving time and confusion. Opt for a video visit with your vet, or simply manage his care schedule on the user-pleasing app.

• Schedule virtual and in-person appointments with your vet
• Set medication reminders
• Can order parasite preventatives in-app
• App is free for pet parents (just pay your vet’s designated virtual appointment fee)
• Stores all your pup’s info in one place
• Owners praise the app’s intuitive design
• Lets you keep your own vet for care
• No subscription or signup fees
• Your vet may not use PetDesk 
• Some clinics don’t run as smoothly as others

11. whiskerDocs

whiskerDocs

A virtual vet provider offering pay-per services and budget-friendly subscriptions with chat, email, and phone support..

About: If you’re looking for care format choices, check out whiskerDocs , a service offering virtual veterinary support 24/7 via on-demand phone, chat, and email. Its single-use chat, email, and phone options are ideal if you’re not looking for a virtual canine care commitment.

• Pay-per email ($4.99), chat ($39.99), or call ($39.99) 
• Monthly ($16.99) and annual membership ($129.99) options also availabl
• Responds to calls within 45 seconds, live chat within 30 seconds, and email within 2 hours
• Owners always speak to a licensed vet or vet tech for pet care advice 
• Several service options to choose from
• Subscriptions are pretty affordable
• Response times are impressive
• No medications or diagnostics offered 
• Only allow one pet per subscription
• À la carte options are pretty pricey

A virtual vet provider dishing out the best four-footer advice for pet parents at lightning-fast speeds.

About: AskVet has your back 24/7 with one-on-one pupper guidance, covering everything from behavior to preventative care. Using chat, you can navigate a multitude of pupper concerns and make the best choices for your fur kid with a licensed vet for only $29.99 a month.

• App-based program available for Android and iOS devices
• Accruable $1000 coverage for eligible emergencies
• Free smartphone-scannable pet ID tag with every membership
• Comprehensive intake questions help narrow down your doggo’s needs 
• Excellent choice for newbie dog owners
• Affordably priced
• Pet ID is a great (and free!) extra
• While they offer an emergency fund, it’s capped at $1,000
• No telemedicine offered

13. Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan

Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan

A virtual arm of banfield’s brick-and-mortar offices found in most u.s. states offering a hybrid model of care..

About: Banfield’s Optimum Wellness Plan covers two virtual visits a year in addition to unlimited in-person exams at any of its nationwide facilities with a monthly fee. Pricing varies by doggo, with a medium-sized dog clocking in between $40 and $70 a month.

• Setup virtual visits with your local Banfield vet
• Vet Chat™ lets you upload a video of your pet for vet review and feedback 24/7
• Comes with phone coaching for canine nutrition
• Wellness plans offer coverage for everyday dog needs, including vaccinations 
• Banfield locations are found in most U.S. states
• Hybrid nature appeals to many owners
• Packages allow for unlimited vet visits and chats 
• Limited to 2 virtual appointments a year
• Requires the purchase of Banfield’s Optimum Wellness Plan

14. FirstVet

An app-based service offering two subscription plans with unlimited virtual visits in multiple countries.

About: FirstVet is a subscription service linking pet parents in several countries to unlimited video vet advice. Best of all, it’s offered at an affordable price, starting at $65. 

• 6-month and yearly memberships available
• Prescription service available in NJ and NY
• Simple app-based format
• Virtual visits available 24/7, 365 days a year
• Offers unlimited virtual visits in multiple countries
• Very affordably priced
• User-friendly setup a win with dog parents
• Subscriptions aren’t a favorite for everyone
• Prescription service limited to 2 states

Telemedicing vs Tele-Triage: What’s the Difference?

There are a lot of tele- terms floating around virtual vetting, with the two most commonly used being telemedicine and tele-triage.

So, what’s what? 

Tele medicine involves remotely treating and offering advice for animal patients, while tele- triage services help owners decide if seeking in-person vet care at a local facility is warranted. 

Telemedicine is great for addressing run-of-the-mill pup problems during travel or when your vet is closed. This means things like minor tummy upsets or itchy skin. 

On the other hand, tele-triage services are invaluable for determining if your dog’s symptoms warrant an emergency vet visit, potentially saving heaps of money and even your dog’s life. This would be useful in cases such as dietary indiscretions, which may or may not be dangerous. 

Need more clarity? Here are two hypothetical scenarios:

• Telemedicine Scenario : You’re on vacation, and your four-footer experiences diarrhea during your evening walk. It’s nothing severe, but you’re away from your regular vet and need advice about settling his tummy. A telemedicine call with a vet can help. 
• Tele-triage Scenario : Your dog is vomiting and hunched in pain. You don’t know whether this is another case of sour stomach or a life-threatening bloat incident. Using tele-triage, a licensed vet can evaluate your pup’s symptoms and advise if emergency care is necessary.

Learn more about veterinarians: 32 Fascinating Veterinary Statistics !

Virtual Vet Visit FAQ

Virtual vet visits have grown in popularity in recent years, but you might still have some questions about them. Check out these most commonly asked questions and get the scoop.

Can online vets write prescriptions?

Maybe . Laws surrounding the vet-client-patient relationship (VCPR) vary state to state, with some requiring an in-person appointment before prescribing medication while others deem a virtual visit adequate for meeting VCPR requirements. Always read a service’s fine print before signing up to ensure you get the level of care you seek. See our full list of places where you can get a vet perscription online here for more details!

Are online vets real?

Yes, online vets must be licensed just like traditional vets in brick-and-mortar establishments. As long as you’re using a reputable service with listed credentials, you can trust that you’re talking to a real vet. Some services can even connect you with your own vet as long as they’re in the network.

Note that some online veterinary sites delegate triage services to vet techs. While techs are still trusted pet professionals, some pet parents prefer a vet. Other providers use vague “pet professional” labels on those giving behavioral and nutrition advice, so always sniff around to ensure they’re legit.

What is AskVet?

AskVet is a one-stop solution for canine care, offering the answers to everyday problems surrounding diet, exercise, behavior, and more. There’s also triaging, where a vet tech and vet work together to determine if your dog’s symptoms warrant an in-person exam at your vet or local emergency clinic. It’s a nice helping hand for those less experienced with dogs.

Who is the best virtual vet?

The best virtual vet is one that works for you and your dog’s needs. Are you seeking advice on whether to head to an in-person exam or emergency clinic? A tele-triage service would be a good fit. Looking for a remote video visit with possible diagnostics and prescribed medication? Opt for telemedicine, provided you are in a location where medication can be prescribed via virtual VCPR.

Once you’ve established the type of provider, you can move on to things like membership requirements, hours of service, and more. A 24/7 provider is great for any owner, as medical issues almost sense your vet’s closing hour. We’d also recommend those offering cost-saving solutions, such as unlimited video calls and multiple pets per membership. Save those pupper pennies for something fun.

How much does a virtual vet cost?

Appointment fees for a virtual vet visit are often less expensive than in-person exams , ranging from $50 to $100. There may be additional fees, including medication costs, as with traditional care. That said, always read the fine print before using any service, as hidden costs can slip in and lead to a pricey surprise.

How do online vet visits work?

Online vet visits mirror traditional vet visits in many ways but also differ. Some offer self-scheduling services where you select the best time for you rather than calling in and scheduling with someone. The provider will likely call you via video call at the time of your visit, as most virtual vet visits are video in nature, allowing the vet to examine your dog’s behavior and appearance. 

How do I know if my pet needs to see a vet?

Anytime there is a change in your dog’s behavior or his eating, drinking, or bathroom habits, it’s time to head to the vet for a sick visit. A mild case of vomiting or diarrhea can possibly be treated via virtual exam with a licensed veterinarian. By contrast, severe symptoms or any problems in medically sensitive dogs such as puppies, seniors, and those with preexisting conditions should be tended to by an in-person vet. Your dog should also see an in-person vet for injuries, seizures, and breathing issues.

Have you tried any of the virtual vets on our list? Did another wow you and your woofer? Share with us in the comments. We’d love to hear!

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Pet Care is Just a Click Away

Online Veterinarian Visits: Making Life Easier for You & Your Pet

If you have a question or minor concern about your pet, do you really need to drop everything and drive to the vet? Virtual Veterinary Care bridges the gap with convenient, high-quality veterinary telemedicine to meet your pet’s needs when in-clinic care isn’t necessary. We can assist you via text, phone call, or video call to discuss an issue your pet is having or answer any questions about their health or treatment. You'll speak to the same vet every time, and your pet's medical records will be kept on file.

Virtual vet visits can save you time, money, and stress. Get started by completing our consent form and then filling out a consultation request through Otto.

Meet Your Online Veterinarian: Dr. Nunez

"My mission is to provide the best virtual care with a focus on client education, triage, and management of chronic diseases, delivered in a caring and compassionate manner. My aim is to develop a long-term relationship with you and your furry loved one."

Dr. Mark J. Nunez has over 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine, treating pets and mentoring other veterinarians. He has also worked with rescue groups and animal welfare organizations. Originally from Louisiana, he served in the Air Force and Army National Guard, as well as attended Louisiana State University, where he obtained his DVM.

Dr. Nunez established Virtual Veterinary Care to meet the growing demand for veterinary telemedicine. He aims to provide pet owners with an affordable, convenient care option that matches the quality and integrity of in-clinic veterinary care.

Veterinary Telemedicine Services

Virtual Veterinary Care gives you access to the following services:

Telemedicine

We can address certain health concerns about your pet, provide advice about treating these concerns, discuss behavioral problems, and support you in managing chronic conditions.

Is your pet having an emergency, or can it wait? Contact us so we can triage your pet and help you decide whether an ER visit is warranted. For a list of emergencies that require in person visits, click here.  

At-Home Lab Services

We can offer at-home lab services to pets and owners through Affordable Pet Labs. These include urine and fecal testing to check for a wide range of diseases. 

Client Testimonials

Dr. Nunez is a really wonderful man, very calm and patient when he explained everything. He answered all my questions without the feeling of rushing me off the phone or getting annoyed with my 100 questions!

Dr. Nunez is kind and gentle and took his time with us going over options and procedures for our 14 year old dog.

Dr. Nunez is the best vet out there. He is always taking his time to make sure that I get the best care for my dog. He always makes things right and ensures the best care for your animal. Enthusiastically recommended.

Mark is one of the best vets we have ever known. We live out in the country and a run into town is not easy, he was able to talk to us about our Angel and he made us feel very comfortable and what to watch for. 

Dr. Mark Nunez extended a reassuring & calming diagnosis of what was wrong with my dog without having to make an emergency trip to the animal hospital on a weekend!

Excellent experience with Dr. Nunez at Virtual Vet Care! Such a lifesaver to not have to go to the emergency vet (previously our only option on the weekend) for a routine UTI. Our pup was back to herself within hours!

I am incredibly thankful for Virtual Veterinary Care and the professionalism & kindness of Dr. Mark Nunez!! He extended a reassuring & calming diagnosis of what was wrong with my dog without having to make an emergency trip to the animal hospital on a weekend! I highly recommend and would refer Virtual Vet Care and Dr. Mark Nunez!! Thank you!!

I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Nunez. He is compassionate, knowledgeable, patient with answering questions, an all around wonderful doctor who offers great virtual veterinary services. Highly recommend.

Great service and very knowledgeable. Definitely recommend Dr Nunez

Join Us at VVC

Want to be a part of our team? See our career positions available and apply now!

Upload Your Pet’s Health Records

Use our app to upload your pet’s up-to-date health records prior to your call or video appointment with Dr. Nunez.

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• Request a Consult
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• Tele Advice

Online Vet TeleTriage & TeleAdvice for Dogs & Cats

Dr. Adar provides compassionate virtual vet care and will connect with you and your pets, with clear & concise explanations. Online vet chat available now and video appointments available within 24 hours.

Live Chat   Request Consult

Online Vet Triage & Advice at Your Fingertips with Virtual Care

Caring for a pet isn’t always all cuddles, whiskers, and wet noses. Sometimes, it’s not as straightforward as you might like it to be. When you have a question about your pet’s care, behavior, or health, but don’t need to visit a veterinarian for an in-person appointment, it’s always best to get an answer from a veterinary expert. Video VetChat’s teletriage & teleadvice service provides the perfect, convenient answer to all your pet-related questions. Ask a vet today!

Meet Dr. Liuba Adar

A California native, Liuba grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area. From the age of two, she dreamed of having a cat. At 5, she finally got her wish with her first Maine Coon kitten and fell in love.

Growing up, Liuba was always bringing home stray cats to foster and adopt out. At one point, she even wanted to be a farmer and was accepted into the top agricultural school, the University of California at Davis. In college, Liuba changed her focus from farming to treating animals. The one thing holding her back from pursuing a career as a veterinarian was her fear of blood. After shadowing a veterinarian, Liuba got over this fear and decided to pursue her dream of saving animals.

“ I had absolutely the best experience with Video VetChat this evening for my akita/lab mix's skin allergies. She set us up with shampoo and ear drop recommendations. I am super happy with my experience. I would DEFINITELY use this service again!! Robin B.

“ Wonderful customer service! So helpful. I got every question answered quickly and with practical advice that I could start using right away! Jasmin V.

“ I'm so happy that I came across Dr. Adar! My dog Rover started vomiting, acting strange and not wanting to eat. I was so worried! I chatted with Dr. Adar and she immediately told me to take him to Emergency. I took him right away and he ended up having a bone in his intestines and needed surgery. I'm so glad I was able to connect with Dr. Adar so fast! Qi Wen Liu

“ So glad I came across Video VetChat online! Dr. Adar was such a breath of fresh air. She was able to put my mind at ease. I made an appointment the next day. I'm so glad I talked to Dr. Adar first otherwise I may have taken my cat to Emergency which would have been completely unnecessary. Jennifer L

“ Video Vet Chat is a great supplement to clinic appointments. I have a hectic work schedule and it's very difficult for me to take Mikey (my dog) in for an appointment. Dr. Adar was able to give me practical advice on what to do for Mikey's itching. Will definitely use her again! Deborah H.

“ Dr. Adar is awesome! I was very worried about my poor cat (Misty). She had been scratching herself until she started bleeding. Dr. Adar was able to quickly explain the possible causes of itching, recommend a good flea prevention and give a few practical tips of how to make her more comfortable. So happy that I came across Video VetChat. Dyanna L.

How Can Virtual Vet Visits Help Your Pet?

Fast advice in an emergency.

Personalized pet care coaching

Is your pet itching too much?

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Learn about your pet’s diet.

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Enabling access to virtual vet care for all pets.

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Audio Only Calls: 15 Min Call

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How Does it Work?

With virtual vet care, our online veterinarian can respond quickly and bring the ease and convenience of assessing your pet’s condition in the comfort of your home.

Instantly Connect With a Vet – No download required!

Best when you need fast vet advice in an emergency. 

• Fill out your contact information.
• Pre-authorize payment for your session by filling in your credit/debit card details.
• You will then be connected to your online veterinary consultation.

Click to view our top tips for a successful consult!

Get a Veterinarian’s Professional Opinion, When You Need It Most.

Are you ready for your VideoVet Chat appointment or want to learn how to start a live chat? Click below to request a consult!

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Meet with a doctor as soon as possible by joining the queue or schedule a visit.

In a real-time visit, you’ll share your pet’s medical history and your pet's medical concerns.

Our veterinarian will evaluate your pet and discuss next steps, which may include medication.

Our vets can prescribe to residents of D.C., NJ, NY, & VA. We can prescribe to IL & MA residents who have visited Bond Vet in the last year.

Benefits of Bond Vet Telehealth & Telemedicine

Symptoms our online vets can address.

If your pet is experiencing one of the following symptoms, please bring them to Bond Vet or another nearby veterinary hospital as soon as possible: Lack of response or unconsciousness, seizures, collapse, bleeding that won’t stop, severe trauma or pain, bloated abdomen, inability to urinate, or shallow or rapid breathing.

Telehealth & Telemedicine by Bond Vet

Our experienced online veterinarians can help pet owners navigate pet health issues via video call. Ask our vets any questions or concerns you have in regard to your furry family member.

A 20-minute online veterinarian visit is similar to an in-person visit: Our doctor will ask you a few questions, take a look at your pet, and offer solutions. While we can’t administer medical tests, we can offer pet care advice, prescribe medications*, and address your pet health concerns. And, if we believe your pet needs in-person care after a telehealth visit, we’ll discuss next steps with you.

There’s no need to schedule an appointment for telehealth. Our veterinary team is standing by from 10am to 6pm every day to answer your questions. So, when you and your pet are ready, click “Connect with a Vet” and you’ll be connected to a veterinary care expert.

Our veterinary team is available every day. Join the queue Sunday-Thursday between 8am-6pm and Friday-Saturday between 10am-6pm. If you have a question outside of these hours, give us a call on our 24/7 hotline: 212-624-BOND.

Once you’re connected with our vet your appointment will last approximately 20 minutes.

You can join the call from your smartphone or personal computer. You won’t need to download an app. Please make sure you are ready with your pet (or photos/videos of your pet) before you click “Chat Now.”

A telehealth video visit is $95.

A compassionate veterinarian will listen to your pet’s history, gather a visual exam, and make a plan tailored to your pet’s needs, which may include medication, a diet change, or visit to a vet, among other things. It is important to note that some issues may be better suited to an in person clinic visit, but a telehealth visit can help steer you in the right direction.

Yes, our telehealth vets can prescribe and ship medication to residents of D.C., New Jersey, New York, and Virginia. If you've visited Bond Vet within the last year, we can also prescribe and ship medications to residents of Illinois and Massachusetts.

You may choose a telehealth visit over an in-person visit due to personal accessibility restraints, bad weather, time constraints, exposure to COVID, or if you have a fearful or anxious pet, among other reasons.

Some reasons may include a change in behavior, nutrition and diet, infectious diseases (but your pet is otherwise normal), diarrhea, tips for parenting a new puppy or kitten, conjunctivitis, skin issues, allergies, hot spots, rashes, minor wounds, anxiety, or nasal discharge.

The more information you provide, the better our telehealth vets can assess your pet. If you’d like to upload records ahead of your call, please do so at bondvet.com/uploads .

We can’t administer tests, imaging (x-ray/ultrasound) or blood tests in a virtual visit. If we believe your pet should have some of these diagnostics, though, we’ll refer you to a clinic to do so.

Our veterinary team can provide advice no matter where you live. For example, if are not sure if your pet should be seen or are wondering what can be done with your own vet, you can talk with us anytime.

Veterinary practice laws and regulations vary by state, and because of this we can only treat pets in the states listed above.

As with any medical exam or procedure, there are potential risks associated with the use of telehealth. These risks include, but may not be limited to:

• In rare cases, information transmitted by a pet owner may not be sufficient (e.g. poor photo resolution or slow wifi) to allow our telehealth veterinarian to appropriately assess your pet. As such, a delay in medical evaluation or treatment could occur
• In rare cases, a lack of access to complete medical records may result in adverse drug interactions or allergic reactions or other judgment errors.

Give us a call (212) 430-8335 to request your pet’s records and we’ll send them over via email.

Each pet will need a separate assessment and chart so we will treat each pet will need their own appointment.

Want to visit us in person instead?

View our pet hospital locations here , and walk in or book online.

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Virtual Vet Visits: What You Need to Know

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Find a dog food that fits your pet’s needs, find a cat food that fits your pet’s needs.

After joining a telehealth visit with your physician, you may be wondering if there are virtual vet appointments for your pets — and there are! It's just a matter of determining whether a virtual visit would suffice or if a visit to your local veterinarian's office is required.

Use this guide to determine when it would be best to talk to a vet online, what to expect and how to prepare.

What to Expect

Virtual tools are used to conduct a telehealth veterinary visit. There are many different options for connecting, with some of the most popular being apps that allow you to directly message your veterinary team or schedule a video conference appointment instead of being seen in person.

Direct messaging is as simple as it sounds. This allows pet parents to talk to a vet online through instant messaging or by uploading pre-recorded videos or pictures for the vet to review. Virtual vet appointments are also simple! Pet parents can schedule appointments that will take place via video conferencing. There's no specific time frame for these appointments; some may last only five minutes while others may take an entire hour. The appointment time will be dependent on the need — just like they are for in-person visits.

Claudine Sievert, a DVM from Kansas and veterinary consultant at CatPet.club, explains, "An online visit means that the vet cannot do a full clinical examination. The vet cannot see the color of the mucosa (or gum / inside of lip); they cannot palpate the animal or auscultate the lungs. This can be challenging if the pet parent wants a final diagnosis. That is why many times online vets can give you advice regarding the pet's condition, but not the final diagnosis." This means your veterinarian cannot use a stethoscope to listen to your pet's lungs or heart and cannot feel that lump that you might be describing. Additionally, they cannot administer a medication or a vaccination.

What Types of Visits Qualify?

If you're interested in having your pet examined virtually, you may be unsure of what type of appointments would qualify for a virtual vet visit.

Qualifying Appointments

Pet parents may choose to meet virtually with their vet for checkups and follow-up appointments.

Sievert says that pet parents "with a pet-related problem can seek advice or a second opinion. The vet can advise about nutrition, breeding, treatments, surgical procedures, vaccination protocols, external and internal parasite prevention and more. The vet can also give their opinion concerning clinical signs and possible health conditions."

Still unsure whether your needs qualify for a virtual vet visit? Quite often, your vet or their office staff will be able to help you understand whether a virtual or an in-person appointment is needed. Some veterinary offices will require a phone screening, or they may use an app that will allow you to chat with the office staff and upload pictures before scheduling an actual virtual appointment.

Sievert also shares, "If an online vet estimates that the condition is too critical, they will advise the pet parent to go to the emergency vet clinic."

When to Seek Emergency Care

Whether you use your own decision-making or rely on a conversation with the veterinarian to make a choice, some visits will require emergent care, and you'll want to head to an emergency clinic immediately.

Sievert suggests seeking emergency treatment in the following situations:

Persistent bleeding for more than 10 minutes

Car accidents, which can cause internal bleeding

Seizures of any kind

Difficult labor or prolonged labor in a pregnant dog

Bloated abdomen or stomach

Persistent vomiting , which may be a sign of a poisoning

Unusual, heavy breathing or difficulty breathing

This list does not cover all possible emergencies, so if you think your pet may need emergency care, always err on the side of caution and seek treatment. If you are ever unsure, the easiest thing to do is give your local vet call or an emergency vet if something happens after normal business hours. While not as extensive as a virtual vet visit, describing your pet's symptoms over the phone will give your veterinarian a quick understanding of the situation and will enable them to determine if a virtual visit, a clinical visit or an emergency visit is necessary. In emergency situations, this call also lets the animal hospital know that you're on the way with your pet, so they can be prepared to help them as quickly as possible — sometimes this extra notice can be the difference between life and death.

Can Vets Prescribe Medication Virtually?

Yes! Sievert confirms that medications can be prescribed after a virtual visit, and they can even be sent to an online pharmacy which will mail many prescriptions to your home. As an example, if you need a refill on your pet's flea and tick medications, you can request and fill this medication in a virtual appointment. Having access to a vet and prescriptions for your pet is especially helpful in a time of social distancing, though it's also convenient at any time.

Not all medications can be prescribed via a virtual vet appointment, though. Sievert explains, "When it comes to sedatives, heart medications, immunosuppressive treatment and hormones, the vet needs to perform a detailed clinical examination and blood test before the prescription."

How to Prepare to Talk to a Vet Online

Being prepared for an online visit will help you get the most from your appointment. Your vet will have questions for you to answer, specifically related to the reason you're seeking care, and also about your pet's overall behavior, actions and appearance.

To get ready, make sure that whatever device you're using, be it a computer, tablet or phone, is able to connect to the conferencing tool your vet uses. You may want to do a trial run in advance by video conferencing with a friend or family member to test your audio and video capabilities. Make sure the area is well lit and quiet, and you can prop up your phone while you hold your pet in front of the camera.

Here's a list of questions Sievert suggests pet parents think about before connecting:

What is the pet's breed, age and gender? Your vet may have this information in their files, but if they're having trouble accessing it, you can supply them with the answers.

What are you currently doing about vaccinations, deworming and tick prevention?

What clinical signs are concerning you right now?

When did the problem you are seeking treatment for begin?

What was the initial diagnosis if your pet was seen by another veterinarian first? If you're seeking a second opinion, what was the initial treatment?

• Are there any relevant pictures or videos that can help the vet?

Virtual appointments with your vet can be very convenient if you want to talk to a vet online, but remember, a relationship must already exist before you are able to access care in this manner. In addition, virtual vet guidelines may be different from state to state, so it's important to do your research ahead of time.

Contributor Bio

Erin Ollila

Erin Ollila is a pet enthusiast who believes in the power of words and how a message can inform—and even transform—its intended audience. Her writing can be found all over the internet and in print, and includes interviews, ghostwriting, blog posts, and creative nonfiction. Erin is a geek for SEO and all things social media. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Reach out to her on Instagram @ErinOllila or learn more about her at http://erinollila.com .

Veterinary Telemedicine: Virtual Vet Visits With Your Regular Vet

While veterinary medicine is still far behind human medicine in terms of virtual health care, we’re quickly catching up.

More and more veterinary clinics are partnering with companies that help them provide veterinary telemedicine to their existing clients and patients. Many clinics and veterinarians are also developing their own procedure and protocols, with individual veterinarians innovating ways to make care more accessible.

These kinds of services allow you to connect directly with your regular vet over some type of telemedicine platform, usually hosted by the clinic. 

Here’s what you need to know about veterinary telemedicine and how to prep for a virtual visit with your vet.

How Is Veterinary Telemedicine Different From Online Vet Telehealth or Teletriage Services?

 The main difference is that with veterinary telemedicine, you are just booking a virtual appointment with your regular vet, and they can diagnose your pet and prescribe medications unless they need to do further in-person tests.

With online vet “teletriage” services , you are talking to a vet that has never seen your pet before. They serve to help you decide whether you need to take your pet to an emergency vet, or whether it can wait 24 hours or a few days until you can get an appointment. They can also answer general questions and give helpful tips and advice.

In a typical veterinary telemedicine appointment, you might book the appointment just like a regular visit and work directly with your own vet (or another veterinarian associated with your vet’s clinic). Video visits are most often used for this type of telemedicine, but calls and messaging may be used in some cases.

With this type of service, your vet has established a veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR) with you and your pet, and they have access to all of your pet’s medical records and history. This is why they can diagnose your pet and prescribe medication. It gets confusing because with people, you may have used a service where you had a virtual visit with a doctor that you’ve never been to, and they could prescribe a medication.

However, it is important to remember that a VCPR expires after a certain amount of time. For most states, this means that your pet must have been seen in-person at that veterinary clinic within the last 6 to 12 months.

For certain medical or behavioral conditions, your pet may require more frequent in-person visits for exams, or testing such as bloodwork or re-evaluation in order for your veterinarian to diagnose or prescribe anything via telemedicine.

Pros and Cons of Veterinary Telemedicine

VCPR is already established.

Veterinarians may diagnose and prescribe treatment for certain issues.

Veterinarians can follow up in-clinic if an in-person visit is needed.

May not need to leave home.

Pets may still need to come into the clinic if tests or treatments cannot be done at home.

This is only an option if your specific clinic is using telemedicine platforms, and if the patient is up to date on their physical exam and any other routine testing required for specific medical conditions or medication monitoring.

You will need to schedule ahead of time—telemedicine appointments with most vets aren’t available after-hours and weekends like online telehealth and teletriage vets.

When Can You Opt for a Virtual Vet Appointment?

Veterinary clinics that offer televet visits will likely have a clear definition of what can be diagnosed and prescribed during a telehealth visit versus what needs to be seen in person.

Some things that may be done virtually include:

Refilling medications

Rechecking a skin infection or healing wound

Prescribing parasite preventatives or veterinary diets

Quality of life conversations

Behavior consultations

Veterinary telehealth does not replace in-person visits, but instead improves your pet’s access to care and your veterinarian’s ability to keep track of how they’re doing, and it’s more convenient. There will always be certain conditions that must be seen in person, and a video call does not replace a hands-on annual wellness visit.

How to Prepare for Your Virtual Vet Visit

To get the most from your virtual visit, a little preparation can go a long way. Use this checklist to make sure you’re ready.

Be Prepared for Questions

Your veterinarian will likely want to know how your pet is doing, including:

How they are eating/drinking

Whether they have a normal energy level

If they’ve had any vomiting or diarrhea

If you have noticed any behavioral changes

Whether your pet has had any recent changes in environment or routine

Any medications/supplements your pet is on

What diet and treats they receive

Also be prepared to answer questions about the concern you are calling about:

How long has the issue been going on?

Are any other pets or people in the household experiencing similar symptoms?

Can you think of any changes to food, environment, etc., that may have occurred just prior to the medical concern?

Be on Time and Set Aside Enough Time for the Appointment

Most telehealth appointments are available during business hours (some veterinarians may offer extended hours) and last between 15-30 minutes, although some conversations, such as behavioral consultations or end-of-life discussions, may last longer. Make sure to be at your phone or computer and prepared for the appointment 10-15 minutes ahead of time to ensure you can benefit from the entire length of the appointment.

Have Photos and Information Ready

Photos and videos of your pet’s skin, coughing, seizures, breathing issues, etc., are extremely helpful when your veterinarian is assessing what may be going on and how urgent it may be.

While a diagnosis via photo or video alone is often not possible, a video of a coughing dog may help determine the difference between collapsing trachea and reverse sneezing, and a video of a dog collapsing can tell us whether it is more likely to be a seizure or something like a syncopal (fainting) event due to heart disease.

If possible, have these photos and videos ready to go before your appointment, loaded on your computer or phone, whichever you plan to use to communicate with your veterinarian. Some telehealth platforms even have ways to upload any relevant photos or videos before your appointment, which is great at saving time!

Have any additional information on your pet’s health at hand. Keeping a journal of your pet’s habits and symptoms is very valuable, as it can be hard to remember the actual timeline during the call itself. Keeping track of timing on things like seizures, coughing episodes, or changes in behavior is also a great idea.

Finally, be prepared to know the names and doses of any food, supplements, and medications your pet is on, especially if they were not prescribed by your regular veterinarian. Gather any bottles of medication, shampoos, ear treatments, etc., so you can show your veterinarian and tell them the exact brand and dosing instructions.

Try These Tips for Camera-Shy Pets

Some pets are always ready for their close-ups, while others tend to be more shy when it’s time for their virtual visit. Have your pet ready in the room where you plan to have your appointment. Keep some yummy treats on hand to entice them to sit still, come toward the camera, and cooperate during the appointment.

Getting your pet used to being examined, regardless of their age, is extremely helpful for both virtual and in-person exams. Use lots of positive reinforcement to get your pet used to having their toes and nails touched, their ears lifted and looked in, their lips lifted and mouths opened, etc. Getting them used to trotting back and forth on a leash could pay off as well, especially if the concern is a lameness of some kind.

Featured image: iStock.com/svetikd

Veterinarian

Dr. Ellen Malmanger is originally from Arkansas, but attended Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine for veterinary school....

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Can Virtual Vets Write Prescriptions for My Pet?

Table of Contents

Veterinary Telemedicine vs Online Tele-triage Services Can Virtual Vets Write Prescriptions for Your Pet? Can Online Vets From Telehealth Services Write Prescriptions for Pets? Types of Questions a Veterinarian Will Ask Before They Can Write a Prescription FAQs

Online veterinary consultations have never been more popular, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. More and more pet parents and veterinary clinics are taking advantage of this remote way of working and have realized it offers many other advantages in addition to social distancing. But what about prescriptions? Can they still be issued after a virtual veterinarian visit? Let’s find out.

Key Takeaways:

• During a virtual veterinary appointment, it is possible for your personal veterinarian to provide a prescription for medication for your beloved animal.
• However, virtual vets from online tele-triage or telehealth services cannot legally issue a prescription for medication.
• There are some circumstances where the pet needs to be examined in person or undergo additional tests before the vet can write a prescription.

Veterinary Telemedicine vs Online Tele-triage Services

These two different online veterinary services can sound similar but are actually quite different in what they offer.

Veterinary Telemedicine

Veterinary telemedicine is a virtual vet visit with your regular veterinarian, and offers remote consultations either over the telephone, virtual messaging, or video link. Many clinics have their own platforms that enable this, and some are more advanced than others.

You would typically book a virtual veterinarian visit in the same way that you would an in-person appointment. You will be given an approximate time and will usually be told to allow some leeway. You (and usually your pet!) will then need to be available between these times for your veterinarian to call you. Virtual vet visits are often more useful in these circumstances as your veterinarian can actually see your pet. This is particularly important if the problem is a visual one.

If you have booked a video consultation with your veterinarian, you will need to make sure that your pet is close by, so keep the cat flap locked, and ensure that someone else doesn’t take the dog out for a walk!

Online Tele-triage (Telehealth Services)

Online tele-triage and telehealth services are virtual appointment that can be booked with a veterinarian anywhere, even if they never have seen your pet before. This type of virtual pet care service is often used to provide general veterinary advice and online veterinarians can help you decide how urgently your pet needs to be seen by your regular veterinarian. They can often provide some reassurance should you need to wait a few days for an in-person appointment.

Virtual Vet Visits for Your Peace of Mind

Connect with an online vet from the comfort of your home. Convenient, affordable, and stress-free!

Can Virtual Vets Write Prescriptions for Your Pet?

Yes. Your own veterinarian is able to issue a prescription for medication for your pet during a virtual vet visit. This is because your pet is ‘under their care’, i.e., they have seen your pet in person previously and they have access to your pet’s full medical history. They are usually only able to prescribe if your pet has been seen by their practice within the last 12 months, although for certain medications, this timeframe might be reduced.

Sometimes, even if your veterinarian has seen your pet recently, they might request an in-person consultation before issuing a prescription. This is because some health conditions can only be diagnosed once your pet has had a clinical examination by a veterinarian. Some medications might be dangerous to use if certain conditions aren’t otherwise ruled out, and sometimes this can only be done in person. Your pet also might need further tests such as blood tests or X-rays before any medication can be issued.

Bear in mind that your veterinarian has a duty of care to you and your pet and will not issue a prescription after an online vet consultation if they do not feel it is safe or appropriate to do so. There are  certain criteria , set by the governing bodies of the veterinary profession, that need to be met before medication prescriptions can be issued by your veterinarian.

Can Online Vets From Telehealth Services Write Prescriptions for Pets?

Virtual vets from online tele-triage or telehealth services cannot legally issue your pet a prescription for medication. A telehealth consultation can be provided, even if the veterinarian has never have examined your pet in person and does not have access to their medical history. This means that they cannot deem your pet as ‘under their care’. They can only offer general advice and help to determine how soon your pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian in person.

Types of Questions a Veterinarian Will Ask Before They Can Write a Prescription

Even if your veterinarian has seen your pet recently, there are several questions that they might ask and information they require before they can write you a prescription. These might include:

• How long ago the problem started
• How your pet is generally and what their energy levels are like
• If you have noticed any differences in their behavior
• Whether there are any changes in their eating or drinking habits
• If your pet has had any vomiting or diarrhea
• If there have been any recent changes to their routine or to their environment
• Whether they are currently receiving any medications or supplements

They might also ask for videos if your pet is showing a particular behavior, especially if they are not displaying it all of the time. Videos and photographs can be very helpful for your veterinarian to diagnose the problem so try and have these to hand at the time of your online vet appointment.

Virtual veterinarian visits can be very useful and have many advantages for both you and your pet. If you are having an online telemedicine visit, they may be able to write your pet a prescription without seeing them in person. However, there are some circumstances where they will need to examine your pet in person or perform additional tests, before writing your pet a prescription. Online telehealth and tele-triage vets that have never met your pet before cannot legally write prescriptions for medication, but can offer general advice. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a vet prescribe medication without seeing the patient.

No. A veterinarian will prescribe medication to patients after an initial visit. If the patient has already been seen by the veterinarian, prescriptions can be made in-person or virtually through a telemedicine appointment.

How long does my vet need to have seen my pet before they can write a prescription?

This depends on the individual pet, what the problem is, and what type of medication they require. It is usually between 6-12 months but could be reduced depending on these different factors.

Why can’t online vets write a prescription for my pet?

It is a legal requirement to have examined a pet in person before a prescription for medication can be written. Online vets also do not have access to your pet’s medical history and therefore prescribing medication could be dangerous. This is because they could be unaware of previous adverse reactions to certain types of medication, ongoing health conditions, or medication that your pet is currently receiving.

Written by Dr. Joshua Montgomery

Medically reviewed by Laura Fontana, DVM

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