Pet Telehealth Is Here to Stay — If We Do It Right

Pet Telehealth Is Here to Stay — If We Do It Right

The rise of pet telehealth isn’t just a trend, it’s a response to real-world challenges – veterinary shortages, overburdened clinics and a growing demand for 24/7 support. But as the field grows, so does the risk of cutting corners. Doing pet telehealth right isn’t optional, it’s essential. Because when it’s done wrong, pets suffer, pet parents lose trust, and the veterinary profession gets hurt.

Here’s why getting it right matters more than ever:

> Pets deserve more than a chatbot. They deserve clinically sound advice, delivered by licensed professionals using evidence-based protocols. This isn’t a space for “winging it.” It’s healthcare.

> Telehealth should support, not compete with, local veterinarians. The best systems relieve pressure on clinics, help triage smartly and improve access without undermining the critical role of in-person exams.

> Regulations exist for a reason. Veterinary telehealth operates in a complex legal landscape. Respecting VCPR laws and state licensure boundaries isn’t just about compliance. It’s about trust and safety.

> Pet parents need empathy, not just answers. Especially in 12 moments of panic or uncertainty, clear and compassionate communication is just as important as clinical guidance.

> Data, when used responsibly, is powerful. Scalable telehealth platforms have the potential to drive early detection, improve outcomes, and inform broader trends in animal health, if the foundation is sound.

We’re at a crossroads. Pet telehealth can be a force for good or a race to the bottom. The difference lies in how we build, staff and scale these services. Let’s do better. Let’s deliver a service that focuses on what is best for our pets, is actionable by pet parents and adheres to the same standards of care that we expect for our human family members. Our pets and the professionals who care for them deserve nothing less.