FAQs
What is veterinary telemedicine?
Veterinary telemedicine lets you connect with a licensed veterinarian from the comfort of home. Using a secure video connection, your veterinarian can discuss your pet’s symptoms, review their history, and create a care plan. It’s designed for mild to moderate illnesses, new concerns that don’t require emergency care, short-term medication needs, and general guidance on next steps.
What conditions are NOT suitable for telemedicine?
Telemedicine is not a substitute for in-person wellness exams, urgent care, or emergency services. Serious conditions, hands-on treatments, or cases that require diagnostics like X-rays, lab work, or surgery must be handled in-person at a veterinary clinic.
Can prescriptions be provided?
Yes, but with limits. Ohio law allows up to a 14-day supply of medication with one refill after a recheck telemedicine exam. Controlled substances cannot be prescribed through telemedicine. Prescriptions will be sent to your preferred local pharmacy. Any ongoing or long-term refills require an in-person exam.
Do you need my pet’s prior medical records?
Yes. Providing records from your primary veterinarian helps us make the most accurate assessment and treatment plan. If records are not provided, it may limit what we can recommend through telemedicine.
How much does an appointment cost?
A telemedicine consultation is $99. This includes your virtual visit, medical advice, and any prescriptions that can be legally provided via telemedicine. Prescription costs themselves are paid directly to your pharmacy.
Is there a cancellation or no-show fee?
Yes. If you miss your appointment or reschedule/cancel within 24 hours, a $25 fee applies. This helps us keep appointments available for other pets who need timely care.
Do I need to live in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio law requires that both the client and pet must be located in Ohio at the time of the telemedicine visit.
Who provides the care?
All appointments are with Dr. Alli George, a licensed local veterinarian with years of experience in both medicine and surgery. Dr. George also practices in-person as a relief veterinarian in the area.
What should I have ready for my appointment?
Please be in a quiet, well-lit space with your pet present. Have some treats handy to help keep them calm, and be prepared to show them on camera. If possible, upload or text clear photos/videos of your pet’s symptoms before the visit.
What happens after the appointment?
You’ll receive a written summary of the visit for your records. If additional care is needed, you may be referred to your primary veterinarian or a local clinic for further testing or treatment.
What technology do I need?
You’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a working camera and microphone, plus a reliable internet connection. If you’re using a phone or tablet, please download the Zoom app before your appointment.
What about follow-up care?
Telemedicine is designed to help with new or mild concerns and short-term treatment needs. At this time, Ohio DVM Telemedicine does not provide ongoing follow-up care for the same condition. If your pet’s symptoms don’t improve or if additional care is required, we’ll guide you to follow up with your regular veterinarian or a local clinic for hands-on support.
This ensures your pet always gets the most complete care, and it helps us stay within Ohio’s telemedicine laws.
