The Pros and Cons of Telemedicine For Pets
General
Veterinary care is critical to your pet’s health, but a trip to the vet can be time-consuming and sometimes stressful. What if you didn’t have to pack up your pet, load them in the car, and sit in a waiting room to get care for simple ailments? Telemedicine for pets might be the solution.
Virtual consultations using video or photo messaging can’t replace an in-person visit for everything, but in the right situations, it has clear benefits. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of telemedicine for pets, such as the virtual urgent care service offered at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital.
What is telemedicine for pets?
Veterinary telemedicine is remote or virtual care for pets. Instead of going to the clinic in person, you and your pet connect with a veterinarian through your phone, tablet, or computer.
Telehealth services can be a good option for:
Minor health concerns
Follow-up visits after in-person care
Questions about behavior or anxiety
Guidance on the urgency of a new health issue
While virtual care can be extremely convenient, knowing the pros and cons and when to use a virtual care service helps to ensure the best outcomes for your pet’s health.
The benefits of telemedicine for pets
Telemedicine has some definite advantages over traditional care, including:
Convenience – When you talk to a veterinarian from the convenience of your home, you don’t have to worry about transporting your pet, soothing their nerves, or rescheduling your whole day at the last minute.
Speed – A virtual visit allows for same-day care, which can come in handy when your primary vet is booked several days out or closed altogether. A virtual visit can help you figure out if your pet needs immediate attention or if the issue can wait until a spot opens up.
Reduced stress – Many pets struggle with the stress of travel and veterinary visits. Veterinary telemedicine enables pets to remain calm in their familiar environment while still receiving the necessary care. It’s also an excellent option for pets with mobility issues.
Lower cost – Virtual consults are often more affordable than a visit to the veterinary emergency room. If your pet’s issue can be resolved without immediate in-person care, you’ll save on overall costs.
Connection – Telemedicine for pets can also help to keep you more closely connected with your pet’s veterinary team. If your pet has a chronic condition, virtual visits and text or app messaging can help keep you in touch in a way that is convenient for everyone.
The drawbacks of veterinary telemedicine
Despite the clear advantages, telemedicine for pets has some drawbacks, including:
Best for minor issues – Telemedicine is not suitable for addressing serious health issues and emergencies, which require more hands-on care.
No hands-on exam – The best way for a veterinarian to learn about your pet’s health is to perform a physical examination, which isn’t possible virtually.
Rules vary by location – Depending on where you live, veterinarians may or may not be allowed to prescribe medication or even conduct a telemedicine visit. Specifically in New Jersey, virtual vet consultations are allowed, and medications may be prescribed.
Technology can be finicky – Spotty internet, a wiggly pet, or a fuzzy camera can make it difficult to communicate in a virtual setting.
When is telemedicine for pets a good choice?
Telemedicine is a good option for issues that aren’t immediately life-threatening, and anytime you aren’t sure what’s going on with your pet and need answers quickly. A virtual visit may not resolve a pet’s problem entirely, but it gets the ball rolling.
Examples of issues you can ask about during a virtual visit include:
Mild limping
Ear infections or rechecks
Skin or nail issues
Lumps and bumps
Minor stomach upset (e.g., vomiting or diarrhea)
Behavior changes or problems
Chronic disease management
Post-surgery follow-ups not requiring suture removal
However, you should skip the virtual consultation and head straight to the veterinary ER if you notice:
Severe vomiting or diarrhea
Trauma or broken bones
Extreme lethargy or collapse
Seizures
Bleeding
Virtual veterinary urgent care at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital
If you live in New Jersey, you have access to our virtual urgent care service. Our virtual care team offers accessible consultations during daytime hours, including prescriptions when appropriate. If your pet needs to follow up with us in person to complete their care, we’ll provide discounted services.
Visit our website to book a consultation using our scheduling widget or to learn more about Red Bank Veterinary Hospital and the exceptional care we provide for New Jersey pets.
