Something is shifting in how people get vet care for their dogs. Quietly, without much fanfare, a massive number of pet parents stopped defaulting to in-person appointments for every question.
They’re not avoiding veterinary advice. They’re just getting it differently. Online vet services let you video chat with licensed veterinarians from your couch, often within minutes, for a fraction of what a clinic visit costs. No waiting rooms filled with stressed animals. No taking time off work. No paying $80 just to hear “monitor it for a few days.” For non-emergency situations, this option is faster, cheaper, and way less stressful for both you and your dog. Yet most pet parents still don’t know it exists or how legitimate it actually is.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly what online vets can handle versus what still requires an in-person visit, how much it actually costs compared to traditional care, and which platforms are worth using. You’ll also discover how to use virtual vet services strategically to save hundreds of dollars a year without compromising your dog’s health. This isn’t about replacing your regular vet. It’s about having another tool that makes pet care easier when you need answers fast.
Budget tip:
The great part of an online vet service is that you can often chat for free. But even a virtual visit is very affordable. At least compared to a regular vet visit. Generally you have access 24/7 to a vet. That means you can get help when you are in a remote or new area. That means an online vet advice can be a great win-win for your dog and your wallet!
What is an online vet consultation all about?
There are different options for a virtual vet. Mainly it’s either through live chat, email, phone call or video. However, most of these virtual veterinary care services allow you to access a vet or vet tech 24/7. This can be a great relief when you can’t get to your vet.
What are the benefits of online vet consultations?
There could be a few times you may want to consult an online vet. These include:
- Away from your vet camping or doing something else
- Pup has high anxiety with a simple vet office visit
- A minor issue that is concerning you but doesn’t appear to be major
- Simple second opinion on minor symptoms
- Simple and convenient
- Quick response
- Generally, there’s a huge savings over your regular vet
What symptoms or issues can an online consultation with a vet cover?
Naturally, a vet telemedicine can’t provide the hands-on care of your regular vet. But they can cover and provide advice on a multitude of issues, including:
- Behavioral
- Nutritional (pet or dog food review)
- Basic pet healthcare
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Itching
- Eye problems
- Ear concerns
- Fleas, ticks, and other parasites
- Toxicity or poisoning
- Wellness care
- First aid
- Confirmation you need to see your vet immediately, later, or not at all
Can veterinary telemedicine prescribe medications?
This will depend on your location and the vet service you use. You may find a virtual veterinary consultation will only be able to prescribe in the states in which they practice. Additionally, those vets who can prescribe will only be able to do so with a virtual (video) visit.
Can I talk to a vet for free online?
Yes. But mostly free consultations will be through live chat or email.
How much does it cost to have a virtual (video) vet visit?
The price for virtual care will vary depending on the site and the vet or vet tech you select. However, some will be able to prescribe medications for your pets’ health with a virtual vet clinic visit.
Where can I find a virtual vet for my pet?
Keep in mind that visiting an online veterinarian through live chat or email generally prohibits the prescription of any medications. Moreover, an online veterinary consultation doesn’t lend itself to a physical examination of your furry friend.
However, you can receive pet care through various vet telemedicine services such as live chat, email, phone calls, or even video visits. Additionally, this type of virtual consultation is with a veterinary professional (licensed veterinarian or vet tech). Here are some sites offering virtual veterinary advice:
(Scroll to the right for more columns and information!)
| Vet Site | Times | Live Chat | Video | Sub. | Cancel Easy | Prescribe RXs | Special | |
| Chewy | 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. EST | Free for customers | N/A | $19.99 for 20 mins | No | N/A | No | Licensed vets/vet techs |
| Ask VetBabble | 24/7 | Free | N/A | N/A | No | N/A | No | Questions listed in forum |
| PETConnect | 24/7 | Free | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | No | Nutrition Advisors and licensed vet techs only |
| Just Answer Vet | 24/7 | $5 for 7 days chat consultation | N/A | N/A | Must cancel within 7 days, or you’re charged each month | Yes | No | Fast response |
| Pet Circle | 24/7 | Free | Free | N/A | N/A | N/A | No | Australian based |
| Vetster | 24/7 | $55 | N/A | Depends on the vet you select | $357.88 yearly for 4 live videos and unlimited vet chats (often discounted to $137.88) | Uncertain | Not in all states | Must download app. In over 100 countries. |
| First Vet | 24/7 in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland | N/A | N/A | $65 per consultation | $90/month for six months or $135 yearly for unlimited consultations | Yes | No | Must download app |
| Telepaws | 24/7 | N/A | N/A | $70 for one-time consultation | $35/month for up to six appointments for the year | Must cancel 5 days before billing | Not in all states. Check your state here. | Holistic approach to all issues. Only licensed vet (no vet techs) |
| Bondvet | 24/7 | N/A | N/A | $95 for 20 mins | N/A | N/A | Only in NY, NJ, D.C., VA (MA if seen a Bondvet in-person) | Only licensed vets |
| WhiskerDocs | 24/7 | $39.99 per call or chat | $4.99 per email | N/A | $16.99 per month or $129.99 yearly for unlimited access – can’t have one sub. for all pets | Yes | No | Free follow-ups. Can take up to 4 hrs through email to get a reply. |
Where else can I find a vet online?
There are a few other places that offer virtual vet care. But I’ve provided the veterinary care sites with the best reputations and options. However, you may want to look at two other places unique to your situation. These include:
1. Pet insurance
Many pet insurance policies provide free 24/7 vet consultations. Meanwhile, others will provide virtual (video) appointments for free or very economically.
2. Regular vet
Some brick-and-mortar vets will allow you to email basic questions for free. Additionally, some vets offer virtual visits. However, the cost may be the same as a regular in-office visit. You’ll need to check with your vet to see if these services are offered and the price.
What do I need to do to prepare for a virtual vet appointment?
Honestly, it doesn’t take much to prepare. If you have your dog’s medical records, then have those accessible. Also, if you’re participating in a live video be in a good light area so the vet can view your furry friend as well as possible. Of course, write down any questions or issues you want addressed.
What are the downsides to a virtual vet visit?
Of course, a vet whether in chat, on the phone, in email, or even on video can’t physically evaluate your pup. So, there could be a possibility of overlooking something that your regular vet would catch. However, if you aren’t comfortable with your dog’s progress or the information provided with the online visit, then consult your regular vet as soon as possible.
What are the cost savings of an online vet consultation?
There are a few things to consider when taking into account the savings you might see with an online vet. Thus, for a moment, consider the following cost savings when using an online vet:
| Item to consider | Possible cost savings |
| No gas spent on travel | $7.50+ |
| Free chat (as opposed to regular vet visit) | $50-250 |
| Lower priced virtual vet visit | $30 – 155 |
| Not stressing your dog with an in-person vet visit | PRICELESS!!! |
| Accessible nearly anywhere you have internet | PRICELESS!!! |
| Quicker to get an online appointment | PRICELESS!!! |
| Your mind is at ease when you need it | PRICELESS!!! |
Related articles:
- 33 Signs Your Dog Needs a Vet
- 8 Surprising Benefits Of Mobile Vet Services For My Dog
- Does DIY Reduce Dog Vet Costs? Yes!
- Are There Really Safe Cheap Dog Meds?
- Affordable Holistic Dog Care Treatments
- 10 Steps to Find the Best Vet
- 15 Red Flags-Time For a New Vet!
Quick Help: Benefits of Online Vet Advice
Have you ever had a question about your dog late at night? Maybe it’s “Why does my dog sneeze at bedtime?” Or perhaps it’s something more serious like “Why is my dog suddenly vomiting?” I know I’ve wondered about Henry’s dog health at the weirdest times. But I know if there’s anything I need, I can chat with a vet for free or even spend a small amount and have a virtual vet visit. Just knowing this option is available without an expensive emergency vet visit or even a regular vet visit, puts my mind at ease. It’s a great option for my pocketbook and for Henry.
