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What is the Difference Between Telehealth and Telemedicine Online Veterinary Appointments?

Telehealth and Telemedicine online vet visits are often used interchangeably, even though they are different in terms of what services can be offered and where you and your pet are located. 

If you and your pet live within BetterVet’s in-home veterinary coverage area, you may access both telehealth and telemedicine.  If you and your pet live in a state where BetterVet has a practice location, but are outside BetterVet’s coverage area, then you may only access veterinary telehealth services at this time.

During a telehealth appointment, a licensed veterinarian will provide online vet help via video chat. Your virtual vet will be able to observe your pet, answer questions, and advise you on any additional services your pet may need. Your veterinary doctor can also help you determine whether your pet requires additional care or emergency treatment but is unable to provide medical prescriptions. 

During a Telemedicine appointment, a licensed veterinarian can provide the same consultation and guidance as with a Telehealth virtual vet visit but can also diagnose, treat, and prescribe online vet prescriptions for your pet when appropriate.

Benefits of Telehealth & Telemedicine

Benefits of Telehealth & Telemedicine

Connect online with licensed veterinarians
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Benefits of Telehealth & Telemedicine

Benefits of Telehealth & Telemedicine

Access convenient and stress-free virtual vet care from the comfort of home
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Benefits of Telehealth & Telemedicine

Benefits of Telehealth & Telemedicine

Get prompt answers to pet health questions for your peace of mind
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When to Book a Telehealth or Telemedicine Appointment

  • When you have concerns about your pet’s symptoms or behavior
  • If you have follow-up questions after an in-home examination
  • When you have added a pet to the family and are looking for guidance
  • If you are unsure whether your pet needs an in-home vet visit, urgent care appointment, or requires evaluation at an emergency vet clinic.
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What Our Clients Say

Review
Jenna Romito
BetterVet Pittsburgh

Phenomenal virtual service that we used to complement our existing vet team. The added bonus of having a virtual vet, readily available, to answer additional questions that pop up is invaluable. This is a wonderful service to have and the BetterVet doctor was exceptionally knowledgeable, patient, and kind! GREAT JOB!

Christina Nadeau
BetterVet Orange County
Genuinely happy with the experience I had, surprised that it was less expensive than a traditional vet
Ronald Draper
BetterVet Baltimore
Professional, knowledgeable and personable.
Marilyn Haas
BetterVet Seattle
I used a free consultation with Dr. Scott. He was highly knowledgeable, and provided directly relevant and helpful medical advice that got to not only possible explanations for symptoms but also underlying disease or disordered factors that could be at play. He helped me directly diagnosis a breathing issue via video and ultimately understand my dogs possible overall condition better than any of the two vets I had been to in person. I highly recommend BetterVet. Wish I had used them for the past seven years.
Ruthy Evora
BetterVet San Francisco
Had a great video consultation. I am in between making a very difficult decision and the vet I spoke with was very understanding and took time to answer all my questions
Lucy Frost
BetterVet Austin
Had a televisit with Dr. Scott Perry for our very senior lab / pit bull mix. He was terrific -- had great advice. We feel very well cared for.
sunshine2893
BetterVet Greater Los Angeles
I scheduled a telehealth visit because I wasn’t sure whether or not my cat’s new behaviors were normal or needed a vet visit. The doctor was patient, listened to all of his symptoms, and advised he sees someone immediately. I’d like to use bettervet in the future for an in home visit too but I’m grateful I was able to talk to a doctor prior to a visit.
Susan Selckman
BetterVet Baltimore
Had a telecall with Dr. Perry to discuss planning for end of life for my beloved Wheaten Terrier Capisce. His expertise and helping me plan was so valuable. #gratitude
Jenniferlyn Chiemingo
BetterVet San Francisco
Conscientious Doctor, took the time to give suggestions on all levels. Super connected and warm. Definitely will schedule an at home visit soon, online consultation was great!
Abby Jo Stull
BetterVet Pittsburgh
I had a great experience with BetterVet! My cat had a scab that he made on his head that was initially a little bloody, but after a few days appeared to be a little better. Just to be on the safe side, I decided to make a virtual appointment with Dr. Perry. Availability for virtual appointments are usually next-day! He answered all of my questions fully about why he may have developed this scab and asked all the right questions regarding as to a potential cause, as well as provided easy at-home solutions! He wasn’t one of those vets trying to get you to do 1000 tests and spend so much money on something so silly. Loved him! Totally recommend.
Eric
BetterVet Portland
The free consultation is helpful, and the doctor was knowledgeable and compassionate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?
Pricing for telehealth and telemedicine is as follows:

Telehealth $49
Telemedicine $69
Wellness Club Family Plan $19 / month (with 12-month commitment)
Who can book a telehealth appointment?
Current clients, new clients located within BetterVet’s in-home coverage areas, as well as anyone who lives in a state where BetterVet has a license to provide virtual vet services, may book a Telehealth appointment.
Who can book a telemedicine appointment?
If you and your pet live within BetterVet’s in-home coverage areas, and your pet has been examined by one of our doctors within the last 12 months, you are eligible to book a vet telemedicine appointment.
How do I book an appointment?
If you already have a BetterVet account, simply log in and choose the telehealth or telemedicine visit option. If you do not yet have a BetterVet account, you must first create an account, add your pet(s), and then book the service you need.
What can I expect from a virtual appointment?

Virtual vet appointments are used to advise clients on a variety of conditions and determine if an in-person exam is required. During these online appointments, your veterinarian can diagnose or make treatment recommendations only if a VCPR (veterinarian-client-patient-relationship) has been established through an in-person physical exam within the last year.

If your pet is experiencing clinical signs that require immediate attention (for example,  trouble breathing, severe vomiting or diarrhea, or significant bleeding) please contact your closest emergency veterinary hospital.

What are the pros and cons of virtual vet care?
Vet video consultations are stress-free for you and your furry family member. You’ll connect virtually with one of our doctors, who will view your pet through the camera, and together, we will create a plan for their care. There are no disadvantages to scheduling a telemedicine video consultation for your pet for non-emergency issues, but if your pet is experiencing an emergency, they should be seen at the nearest veterinary emergency clinic. Our medical team is available during normal business hours, so please reach out to us if you are unsure which type of appointment to book.
Can online vets write prescriptions?
Yes. If you live in a BetterVet in-home visit coverage area and your pet has been seen by one of our veterinarians within the last 12 months, then our virtual vets can write a prescription for your pet during a Telemedicine appointment. If you think your pet may require prescription medication, make sure to choose the Telemedicine option.
Do your virtual vet appointments include more than one pet?
Yes. If you have multiple pets, you can tackle all of their checkups in one single Telehealth or Telemedicine appointment. If you are a Wellness Club member, you’ll  receive unlimited virtual vet visits for all the pets in the family.
What days and hours will telemedicine appointments be available?
Telemedicine and telehealth appointments are available Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM EST.

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