Telehealth for Established Pet Patients

At Apawthecary, I offer telehealth consultations to make expert care more accessible—without compromising on quality. These virtual visits are available only to existing clients with an active veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR), as required by California law.

What Telehealth Can Be Used For

Telehealth is a convenient way to support your pet’s ongoing care when a physical exam is not necessary. These visits are ideal for:

  • Follow-up check-ins after in-person exams or treatments

  • Reviewing lab or imaging results

  • Discussing behavioral concerns

  • Nutritional or supplement consultations

  • Minor issues that don’t require a hands-on exam

  • Guidance on when in-person care is necessary

If I’ve already seen your pet in person and we have an active VCPR, I can legally diagnose, recommend treatment plans, and prescribe medications via video—as long as the condition can be reasonably assessed remotely.

What Telehealth Cannot Be Used For

There are limitations to what can be done without an in-person physical exam. I cannot diagnose or treat the following solely via telehealth:

  • New patients or pets I haven’t physically examined

  • Acute illnesses or injuries that require hands-on evaluation (e.g., limping, wounds, vomiting, labored breathing)

  • Complex internal medicine cases where detailed diagnostics are needed

  • Emergency situations

In these cases, I will guide you to the appropriate next step—whether it’s an urgent in-home visit, referral to your regular vet, or a local emergency hospital.

How It Works

  1. Request a Telehealth Appointment: If your pet qualifies, we’ll schedule a secure video call.

  2. Meet Virtually: I’ll review your pet’s history and current concerns, and offer medical advice or treatment if appropriate.

  3. Ongoing Support: You’ll always receive honest guidance about what can and can’t be addressed virtually.