What is telehealth and which is right for me?
Telehealth
The term telehealth includes all types of technology to deliver health care remotely. There are two important categories of teleheath that differ based on if there is a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) or not. The way to establish a VCPR is if the veterinarian has conducted a physical exam in person or (depending on local state laws), the vet has conducted a visual examination via video consult with that particular pet present.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is generally referred to electronic health care when a VCPR has been established. Some states allow a VCPR via video consults (using zoom for example), while others maintain a VCPR can only be established in person.
Teletriage
Teletriage encompasses a timely assessment and appropriate advice rendered (whether the pet should be sent to the emergency room promptly or whether the pet can be seen at a primary care facility for example). This again is virtual (video or phone) and based on the history and clinical signs described by the client.
Prescriptions
Prescriptions by law, can only be written (electronically or otherwise), when a VCPR has been established. For virtual (video only) VCPR's, medications can only be dispensed for a certain period of time, and all controlled substances are unable to be prescribed. Please see your local state laws for more information.
What makes this different
Unlike larger platforms where you may speak to a different vet each time, here, you always speak directly with me.
That means:
- Consistent care over time
- No repeating your pet’s history
- Familiarity with your case if you return
- More personalized guidance
Pricing menu
Video consult
USD $ 55
All consults are 15 minutes and each consult is for a single pet.
No subscriptions. No hidden fees.
Please note, all prescription requests are required by law to be video consults (prescriptions only offered to California residents) and pet must be present at time of consultation.
A note from me
I built this service because I believe pet owners should not have to wait in uncertainty when something feels wrong.
If your pet is not acting normally, I’m here to help you figure out what is going on, and what to do next.
Ready when you are
If you need help, you can speak with me in minutes.
What happens next
- Choose a time (or start now if available)
- Join a secure video call via Zoom
- Speak directly with Dr. Samuel
- Get clear answers and next steps
If your pet needs in-person care, you will be told immediately.
This service is best for:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Skin issues or itchiness
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden behavior changes
- Minor injuries or concerns
- “Do I need an emergency vet?” situations
IMPORTANT
This is a telehealth consultation service. If your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency (difficulty breathing, severe trauma like being hit by a car, uncontrolled bleeding to name a few), please go to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
Your vet
You will always speak directly with the same licensed veterinarian, no rotating doctors, no call centers.
This allows for:
- Consistent care
- Better understanding of your pet’s history
- More accurate guidance over time
Need help right now?
If you’re unsure whether or not to book, go ahead anyway. It’s better to get clarity than to wait and worry.
FAQs
No! You can ask a question via video or phone call from anywhere in the world. If you need a prescription however, by law, we are only able to prescribe certain medications to those who reside in California and have a video consult with their pet.
Yes, we value continuity of care so you will see the same vet every consult. The vet will also review all medical records prior to the appointment so will know the complete history!
Being able to get an appointment these days can be difficult (a lot of vets are booked for weeks) and can be quite costly. Being seen online can save time and may also save you a trip to the vet.
Some pets (especially the kitties) get very stressed going to a clinic, so online options can be a better fit for them.
People who may have transportation issues or limited mobility may benefit from online appointments.
Post-op care (checking incisions for example), can be evaluated via telehealth often.
Many concerns can be addressed online and with over the counter remedies which again, can save time and money.
If you’ve left the vet and you still have questions, we are more than happy to go over what testing was done, what diagnoses mean, and what the next steps for you and your pet may be.
Bear in mind, we still do recommend at least one yearly in-person examination, but we are here for you for all the time in between!
You can ask about a myriad of concerns, for example:
-What may be causing my pets’ skin conditions?
-Why is my pet vomiting or having diarrhea?
-Why is my pet having accidents in the house?
-Does my pet have separation anxiety and what can I do about it?
-What does my pets diagnosis mean and how will this affect quality of life?
-How will I know when it is time to say goodbye?
Bear in mind sometimes an in person visit and/or testing (bloodwork, x-rays, or skin/ ear testing is necessary) and will be recommended as next steps).