A new app is allowing clients to consult with a veterinarian using text and video. Vet24seven launched in July and is active in the Sacramento Bay area, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino. Vet24seven provides consultations for domestic animals. So far the app has several dozen veterinarians and hundreds of clients. Using the app is often cheaper than visiting a local veterinarian though the app does allow for referrals to a local veterinarian. Clients may upload photos and video of their animals.
Cal Lai, Vet24seven CEO and Co-Founder said, “We think Vet24seven increases the frequency of contact and makes the more remote areas more accessible… You can engage your veterinarian in causal regular everyday conversation related to your animal.” Lai believes the app allows owners to talk with a veterinarian instead of relying on inaccurate information found on the Internet. He said, “The problem with Dr. Google is everyone believes what’s on the Internet is real and true and good. Veterinarians have the ability and expertise to filter that information.”
Some veterinarians are worried that virtual veterinary care may be inadequate and veterinarians could break state regulations when treating patients. The California Veterinary Medical Association requires veterinarians to have a ‘veterinarian client patient relationship’. In order to develop this relationship a veterinarian is required to physically examine an animal before providing advice or treatment. Owners cannot be relied on to identify every abnormality an animal presents nevermind the signs that an animal hides.
Director of Regulatory Affairs at the California Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Grant Miller said, “There is really no substitute for placing your hands on an animal and smelling an ear infection. You can’t do that over a computer.” Veterinarian Dr. Diljit Kamboj said, “It is crucial that we do physical examinations. How am I supposed to give advice if I don’t know what’s going on with the pet?”
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