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If you’re looking for expert veterinarian advice without having to spend the time and money visiting your vet’s office, what are your options? Fortunately, several reliable and surprisingly affordable services online connect you with licensed vets who can evaluate your pet’s situation and give treatment advice without the need for in-person visits. Read on to learn which ones are your best options.
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In most cases, virtual veterinarians can give an online vet consultation to help triage patients, offer first aid advice, and general advice about nutrition or behavior issues. However, a Veterinarian-Client-Patient relationship (VCPR) is legally required to provide a diagnosis for medical conditions or prescribe medication for your pet, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
State regulations can differ in how a VCPR can be established. This means that you may or may not be able to get a diagnosis or prescription medicine depending on where you live and where the online vet you’re consulting with is licensed. Many states require that the VCPR be established in person. Some allow a VCPR to be established virtually with patients they’ve seen in person in the past, while other states have varying restrictions regarding prescribing medication virtually.
It can be confusing for pet parents, but the Veterinary Virtual Care Association has an interactive map to show you the laws in each state. Also, with some of the sites we review here, their veterinarians don’t diagnose or write prescriptions at all. We’ve noted these in our reviews. If you are unable to travel with your pet, a mobile vet might fit your needs.
