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, bloodwork, or surgery must be handled in-person at a veterinary clinic.
Can prescriptions be provided?
Yes, but with limitations under Ohio law. Telemedicine prescriptions are limited to a 14-day supply, with one additional 14-day refill available after a follow-up telemedicine appointment. Controlled substances cannot be prescribed through telemedicine.
Prescriptions may be sent to your preferred local pharmacy. Medications are also available for pickup through our partner clinic, The Bridge Pet Urgent Care. Ongoing treatment or long-term refills require an in-person veterinary examination.
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 veterinarian with years of experience in both medicine and surgery. Dr. George also practices in-person as a relief veterinarian.
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?
After your visit, you'll receive a written summary of your pet's evaluation, treatment recommendations, and any prescribed medications. If additional diagnostics, treatments, or follow-up care are needed, we may recommend seeing your primary veterinarian or another local veterinary clinic.
When appropriate, telemedicine patients may also be referred to our partner clinic, The Bridge Pet Urgent Care, for services such as laboratory testing, urinalysis, fecal testing, or prescription pickup.
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 for new concerns, mild illnesses, and short-term treatment needs. In some cases, a follow-up telemedicine appointment may be available to assess your pet's progress and determine whether a limited medication refill is appropriate under Ohio law.
If your pet's symptoms are not improving, are worsening, or require ongoing treatment, diagnostics, or hands-on care, we'll recommend follow-up with your primary veterinarian or another local veterinary clinic. When appropriate, patients may also be referred to our partner clinic, The Bridge Pet Urgent Care, for diagnostic testing or prescription pickup.
Our goal is to help your pet receive timely care while ensuring they receive the in-person evaluation and treatment they need when telemedicine is no longer the best option.
