Many Americans have had a virtual visit with a doctor during the coronavirus pandemic. Now, Chewy is launching a telehealth service for pets. Vets offer guidance and can refer the pet to an emergency clinic if needed, but wont diagnose a condition or prescribe medication.

Do vets do telehealth?

Yes. Veterinarians can offer clients telemedicine services as long as they have established a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) as defined in the applicable states veterinary practice act. Veterinary practice acts vary by state, so check with your state licensing board for details.

Are there any virtual vets?

Virtual vet services are available for cats and dogs only. Chewys veterinarians can provide guidance and advice, but cannot diagnose your pet or prescribe medications. If the vet you connect with recommends products for your pet, they can be purchased through Chewys online store.

Will a vet prescribe antibiotics over the phone?

Besides being unethical and illegal to prescribe medication over the phone, veterinarians cant accurately diagnose or treat a pet without physically examining him or her. Treating a pet for the wrong disease will cost more in the end and could be harmful or even deadly to your pet.

What happens when dog stays overnight at vet?

If there is an option for overnight care, rest assured that your pet will get the best care possible. She will be walked, fed, medicated, and snuggled. She will be constantly cleaned up after, monitored, and played with. When the veterinary team is at work, the patients become their own personal pets.

Why do vets keep cats overnight?

On occasion, an owner may prefer to leave the cat overnight to save them the stress of traveling back and forth to the vets office on consecutive days; or it may be more convenient to bring the cat in the previous evening when a procedure is scheduled early on the next morning.

Can I refuse to pay vet bill?

The worst thing you can do is to dodge a vet bill. If you simply refuse to pay a bill, your account might be turned over to collections and that leads to even more trouble. If you cant afford to pay a bill, at least talk to the veterinarian to see whether any of the options listed above are viable.

Can you phone a vet for advice?

Call a vet PetGP is a 24-hour service, which works like an NHS Direct for pets, and anyone can call. You can pay upfront or have the call charged to your bill on a pay as you go basis, and the cost is typically less than an initial vet consultation.

How can I talk to a vet online?

PetCoach is the leading source of online veterinarian advice. Obtain brief answers or chat with a veterinarian privately about your dog, cat or any other pet.

What happens if I dont pay a vet bill?

If you receive a vet bill that you simply cant afford to pay, your animal clinic can take your account to collections. Any balance that goes to a collections agency can negatively impact your credit. You may need to seek medical treatment right away to save your pet, and decide to consider your payment options later.

Can the vet keep my cat if I cant pay?

Some veterinarians hold pets for payment because its bad business to work for free. Other vets dont hold the animals, because its bad business to keep a family from a beloved Labrador or Siamese. Some vets find homes for pets held for nonpayment; some just send them to humane shelters.

What to do if you cant afford a vet?

When You Cant Afford Veterinary CareChoose pet insurance. Get a Credit Line. Ask for payment options. Consider crowdfunding. Host a group yard sale. Use free or low cost clinics. Ask friends or family. Start a pet savings account.More items •15 Feb 2019