Can virtual vets write prescriptions?

Why pet owners are switching to online vet care with Dutch

Key takeaways:

• Many pet health issues don't require in-person vet visits. Conditions like fleas, anxiety, and skin allergies can be treated effectively through virtual visits.
• Licensed veterinarians can diagnose conditions and write prescriptions through video calls in most states.
• Telemedicine for pets is a great way to receive professional veterinary care from home without the stress of clinic visits or weeks-long appointment waits.

• Virtual vets follow the same medical standards as traditional clinics, just with more convenience for busy pet parents.

When it comes to our pets, their health and well-being always come first. But sometimes getting to a vet isn’t simple — appointments may be hard to book, or the cost and logistics make it difficult. That’s where telemedicine can help. Many pet parents wonder, “Can virtual vets write prescriptions?” The answer is: in certain cases, yes. Through pet telehealth platforms, veterinarians can assess your pet’s needs remotely and, when appropriate, provide prescriptions so you can get pet care and guidance without an in-person visit.

Plus, many of these services can also deliver medications to your home, so you can take care of your pet’s health without adding extra time and stress for either of you. And while pet parents must wait an average of seven or more days for a typical veterinary visit, 90% of telemedicine appointments are available within 24 hours.

That said, not all remote vets can diagnose or give your pet the treatment they deserve. Keep reading to discover where to find online vets who provide prescriptions and learn how to get a vet prescription online. In this guide, we’ll also highlight the steps you can take to prepare for your online vet appointment.

• Can Online Veterinarians Prescribe Medication?
• When Can Online Vets Authorize Prescriptions?
• What Are The Benefits of Online Pet Prescription?
• How to Prepare For a Visit With a Virtual Vet
• How to Get a Vet Prescription Online with Dutch
• FAQs
• Connect With Online Vets Who Provide Prescriptions

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Can virtual vets write prescriptions?

Whether or not a veterinarian can prescribe medications virtually is dependent on the laws of each state. If a virtual vet is licensed in their patients’ home states, then yes, they can prescribe medication for your pet. Through Dutch, licensed veterinarians can issue prescriptions in most states. 

However, in states where a veterinarian cannot legally diagnose a medical condition or prescribe medications, they can still offer healthcare guidance and advice for general questions, triage assistance, and first aid help.

Veterinary Telemedicine vs. Online Tele-Triage

Not all virtual pet care services are created equal, and understanding the difference can save you time and get your pet the right treatment faster.

Veterinary telemedicine provides comprehensive care, where licensed vets can diagnose conditions, create treatment plans, and prescribe medications through video consultations. This is what Dutch offers — full veterinary care that establishes a real doctor-patient relationship virtually. 

Online tele-triage is more limited. These services typically offer basic guidance, symptom assessment, and advice on whether you should visit an in-person vet. While tele-triage can be helpful for general questions, it won't get your pet the medications or care they need for ongoing health issues.

In short, telemedicine can treat your pet's problems, while tele-triage just offers advice to help owners determine the level of care their pet needs based on their symptoms. 

When can online vets authorize prescriptions?

Some states require a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) to be established in person before diagnosing illnesses and issuing a prescription.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), VCPR is present when the following conditions are met:

• The veterinarian takes full responsibility for making decisions that are in the best interest of the pet, and the client has agreed to follow their instructions.
• The veterinarian has the necessary knowledge to make a preliminary diagnosis.
• The veterinarian is available for a follow-up or has developed a treatment plan.
• The veterinarian will supervise the pet’s treatment and outcome.
• The veterinarian will keep a proper and legal record of the patient.

At Dutch, our affiliated veterinarians may be able to establish this relationship virtually, allowing them to diagnose conditions and prescribe medications when appropriate — all from the comfort of your home. This means you can get vet prescriptions online for many common pet health issues, including:

• Skin conditions like rashes, hot spots, and dermatitis
• Allergies and seasonal itching
• Anxiety and behavioral concerns
• Flea and tick care
• Ear infections
• UTIs and other urinary issues
• Digestive problems
• Joint pain and mobility issues

• And more

Each case is evaluated individually by a licensed veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan for your pet.

What Kind of Care Can Online Vets Provide?

Many online vets can provide the same amount of support and care you expect from local and in-person veterinarians, including online vet consultation and prescription services. While some online vet services only offer basic triage and advice, Dutch provides comprehensive care, including prescriptions and ongoing treatment plans that work alongside your in-person vet care. 

In fact, our veterinarians at Dutch can often provide more support than your typical in-person vet, since follow-up visits are free, and you can message the vet anytime instead of playing phone tag with your local clinic when you have questions. Here’s what you can expect from your online vet:

• Health assessments: By describing your pet’s condition, showing photos or videos of your pet, and answering a comprehensive health care questionnaire, a remote vet can often provide a quick diagnosis.
• Quick answers: As a pet parent, you may find yourself constantly researching your pet’s symptoms on the internet, wondering if you’ll have to take them to the vet soon. Unlike basic online vet services that only offer guidance, vets in the Dutch network can actually diagnose conditions and prescribe treatments for non-emergency issues, such as allergies, digestive issues, and other health concerns, to ease your worries.
• Follow-up support: Dutch makes it easy to follow up after a vet call through virtual messaging. Plus, our vets can answer follow-up questions about all kinds of things from in-person visits and provide second opinions.
• Medication prescription: The online vets at Dutch can establish VCPR remotely and assess if medication would be beneficial for your pet. This includes flea prevention, mood-balancing antidepressants, and more.

Ultimately, the kind of care online vets can provide will depend on the state laws in which you’re looking to receive care. For example, online vets in California can provide comprehensive virtual care, including health assessments and prescription services when appropriate. Meanwhile, some states or telemedicine programs are limited and can only offer guidance or tips for when your pet is experiencing an illness.

Keep in mind that telemedicine shouldn’t be used for medical emergencies. In these instances, it’s best to seek assistance from a veterinary professional right away.

Are online vets legitimate?

Absolutely. Online veterinarians must meet the same licensing requirements, educational standards, and professional credentials as traditional in-person vets. They graduate from accredited veterinary schools, pass state licensing exams, and maintain continuing education just like your local clinic's veterinarians.

The legitimacy question usually comes from confusion about how virtual care works. The good news is that online vets can conduct real examinations through video calls, review medical histories, and follow established veterinary protocols. The AVMA recognizes telemedicine as a valid form of veterinary practice when providers follow proper medical guidelines.

However, online vets are not a replacement for emergency care or complex procedures.

The benefits of online pet prescriptions

Getting your pet’s prescriptions online through Dutch combines professional veterinary care with the convenience pet parents need. Here are just a few of the ways Dutch makes pet healthcare easier and more accessible:

• Accessibility: Access to veterinary guidance doesn’t end after standard business hours. Dutch members can message our veterinary team quickly anytime — even nights, weekends, and holidays — ensuring you have professional support whenever questions or concerns arise about your pet’s health or medications.
• Follow-ups via messaging or video call: Your Dutch membership includes unlimited follow-up communication with our veterinary team at no extra cost. Whether you need clarification about dosing or want to discuss how your pet is responding to treatment, our vets are here to help every step of the way.
• Convenient refills and shipping: No more last-minute pharmacy runs. With Dutch, you can set up automatic refills — with free standard shipping — so your pet never misses a dose. Out of refills? Get more with just a few taps. If your pet’s medication needs adjusting, you can message your vet directly or book a new vet call at no extra cost.

• Pharmacy price matching: Found a better price at another pharmacy? Dutch price-matches U.S. pharmacies on all medications we offer — so your pet’s prescriptions cost less.

How to prepare for a visit with a virtual vet

Whether you’re a proud dog or cat parent, preparing for their virtual vet appointment is essential to ensuring your vet can create a suitable treatment plan for their specific condition. Here are a few steps you can take to prepare for your pet’s remote appointment:

• Know your pet’s current clinical signs: From diarrhea to itchy skin, writing down the problems affecting your pet will help speed up the visit with your virtual vet. Plus, it can also help narrow down the possible conditions.
• Document with photos and videos: Having close-up photos or videos of your pet actively presenting their physical symptoms can help your vet get a closer look.
• Provide a timeline: A timeline of your pet’s symptoms can help the vet evaluate whether this is an ongoing health concern or a new issue brought on by a change in diet or environment.
• Have medical history ready: If possible, give the vet your pet’s medical history, from past surgeries to illnesses, so they can get as complete a view of their overall health as possible.

• Provide a list of medication and allergies: If your pet is currently taking medicine or supplements or has a known allergy, disclose that to your vet.

It may also be a good idea to have a partner, friend, or relative join you to assist with your pet’s appointment. They can help position your pet as you zoom in on a certain area on their body, or they can hold the camera for you.

Questions your veterinarian may ask before writing a prescription

Your veterinarian needs to understand your pet's complete health picture before prescribing any medication. Licensed online vets follow the same thorough assessment process as in-person visits to ensure your pet gets the right treatment.

Your vet will typically ask about:

• Timeline of symptoms: How long ago the problem started and whether it's getting better or worse
• General health and energy: Your pet's overall condition, activity levels, and mood changes
• Behavioral differences: Any shifts in personality, anxiety levels, or unusual behaviors you've noticed
• Eating and drinking habits: Changes in appetite, water consumption, or food preferences
• Digestive issues: Whether your pet has experienced vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach problems
• Environmental changes: Recent moves, new pets, schedule changes, or household disruptions

• Current medications: Any prescriptions, supplements, or over-the-counter (OTC) treatments your pet is taking

Your vet may also request videos or photos, especially if your pet shows intermittent symptoms like skin issues or separation anxiety. Having this visual evidence ready helps veterinarians make accurate diagnoses and create effective treatment plans.

The pros and cons of online vet care

Online vet care offers many advantages, including:

• Faster appointments: Get care when your pet needs it, not when the clinic has availability.
• Same-day access to licensed veterinarians 7 days a week: Access professional support whenever health concerns arise.
• Medications delivered free to your door: Avoid last-minute pharmacy runs or prescription pickups.
• Exceptional professional standards: Get treatment from licensed vets who follow identical protocols as traditional clinics.
• Less stress for anxious pets: Skip the car rides, waiting rooms, and unfamiliar clinic environments.
• Transparent, affordable pricing: Know costs upfront without surprise fees or emergency charges.

However, online vet care isn't perfect for every situation. Cons include:

• Not suitable for emergencies: Serious injuries or life-threatening conditions need immediate in-person care.
• Limited physical examination: Some conditions require hands-on assessment, blood work, or imaging.
• State availability varies: Telemedicine regulations differ across states, limiting access in some areas.
• Complex procedures are impossible: Surgeries, dental cleanings, and advanced diagnostics need physical facilities

• Technology requirements: Reliable internet and video capability are necessary for effective consultations

When to take your pet to a veterinarian in person

Online veterinary care can handle many of your pet's health needs, but certain situations require immediate in-person attention. See an in-person veterinarian for:

• Emergencies: Difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, severe bleeding, or suspected poisoning
• Trauma or injuries: Car accidents, falls, deep cuts, or broken bones that need immediate stabilization
• Severe pain: Intense crying, inability to move, or signs of extreme discomfort your pet can't hide
• Sudden behavioral changes:  Sudden fatigue, collapse, seizures, or complete loss of coordination
• Surgical needs: Procedures like spaying, neutering, or tumor removal that require anesthesia
• Dental cleanings: Professional teeth cleaning that requires anesthesia and specialized tools

• Advanced diagnostics: X-rays, blood work, ultrasounds, or biopsies that need specialized equipment

In-person care is also recommended for:

• Annual wellness exams: Comprehensive physical checkups, vaccinations, and preventive care

• Complex chronic conditions: Diseases like hyperthyroidism in cats that may need ongoing monitoring

Luckily, most everyday problems like allergies, anxiety, cat dermatitis symptoms, or digestive issues can be treated through telemedicine. When you're unsure, our licensed veterinarians at Dutch can help you determine whether virtual care is appropriate or if your pet needs immediate in-person attention.

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Get a prescriptions from your virtual vet at Dutch

Online veterinary prescriptions are real, legitimate, and often more practical than traditional clinic visits for busy pet families. Hundreds of thousands of pet parents are already getting effective treatment for issues like fleas in the house, ringworm in cats, and behavioral concerns through virtual consultations.

Dutch connects you with board-certified veterinarians through virtual consultations where they can observe your pet in their natural environment and personalize your treatment plans.

Simply share photos of your pet's condition, hop on a video call where our vet gets to know your pet's specific situation, then receive a treatment plan with any necessary medications delivered to your door. We handle the common health problems that most pets face. Ifn an issue does require in-person care, we’ll help you understand your next best steps.

Start your pet's treatment plan today.

Can virtual vets write prescriptions FAQs

Can a vet prescribe medication without seeing the patient?

Yes, a vet can prescribe medication without seeing the patient in person. However, all vets must establish a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship by seeing the pet on camera during a video appointment, before prescribing medications. Dutch-affiliated vets can establish this relationship virtually in most states. Simply schedule an appointment with a Dutch vet to get started!

Through photos, videos, and detailed health information, our veterinarians can effectively evaluate your pet’s condition and prescribe appropriate medications when needed. This allows you to get the care your pet needs without the stress of an in-person visit — though some conditions may still require physical examination at a local veterinary clinic. If an in-person visit is needed, our veterinary team is happy to assist in finding care.

Simply schedule an appointment with a licensed vet to get started.

How long does my vet need to have seen my pet before they can write a prescription?

Veterinarians in the Dutch network can establish a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship and write prescriptions during your first virtual consultation in states whose laws allow it. If our vet can properly assess your pet's condition through video examination and health history, they can prescribe appropriate medications right away. 

This allows you to get treatment for common issues like anxiety, allergies, or skin conditions without multiple appointments or extended timelines. Some states have different requirements, but our veterinary team will always let you know what's possible in your specific location.

Can I get antibiotics for my dog without seeing a vet?

Just like any prescription medication, antibiotics for your pet require oversight from a licensed veterinarian. While you don’t need to visit a physical clinic, you’ll need to schedule a virtual appointment with a Dutch vet who can properly evaluate your pet’s condition.

During your consultation, you’ll discuss your pet’s clinical signs and medical history, share photos or videos of their condition, and complete a health questionnaire. This information helps our veterinarians determine if antibiotics are appropriate and, if so, prescribe the right type and dosage for your pet. The prescriptions can then be filled through our online pet pharmacy or transferred to your preferred local pharmacy.

Can online vets from telehealth services write prescriptions for pets?

Yes, licensed veterinarians working through legitimate telehealth platforms can write prescriptions for pets in most states. The vet must be properly credentialed and follow state regulations for establishing a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship virtually. 

Not all telehealth services offer prescription capabilities though. Some only provide basic advice or triage guidance, while comprehensive platforms like Dutch connect you with vets who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medications. 

What can you use an online veterinarian for?

Online veterinarians can handle most non-emergency health issues that don't require hands-on examination or specialized equipment. This includes diagnosing and treating conditions like:

• Anxiety
• Allergies
• Skin conditions
• Digestive problems
• Behavioral concerns

• Routine medication management

You can also use virtual vets for follow-up care after surgeries, prescription refills, general health questions, and second opinions on treatment plans.

How much do online vets cost?

Online vet costs vary widely depending on the service and what's included. Dutch starts at $11/month for a one-year membership and includes unlimited access to licensed veterinarians, with no surprise fees for consultations, follow-ups, or prescription writing. 

Members also get free standard medication shipping and 24/7 messaging access to the veterinary team. When you factor in the cost of traditional vet visits, plus time off work and gas money, Dutch's membership model usually saves both money and hassle for families dealing with ongoing pet health issues.

What is the best online vet service?

The best online vet service depends on what you need, but look for platforms that offer comprehensive care rather than just basic advice. For those looking for licensed veterinarians who can prescribe medications, not just triage services that tell you to visit a local clinic, consider Dutch. 

Our vets can diagnose conditions, write prescriptions, and provide ongoing support through a simple membership model. We focus on treating common pet health problems that traditional vets might overlook or for which they have long appointment wait times. Plus, Dutch includes everything in your membership: consultations, prescriptions, follow-up care, and free shipping. 

Many other services charge separately for each piece, which adds up quickly and defeats the purpose of convenient, affordable pet care.

Does Dutch prescribe medication?

Yes, veterinarians in the Dutch network can prescribe medications and treatments for pets! Our licensed vets provide comprehensive care, including prescriptions when appropriate, in almost every state. 

Prescribing capabilities may vary slightly depending on your local regulations. Regardless of where you live, your Dutch membership gives you fast access to licensed vets who offer expert guidance on health and behavioral issues, recommend the right treatments, and prescribe medications when available.

Once prescribed, Dutch ships your medications directly to your door with free shipping for members.

Can I use any pharmacy to fill my prescription?

Yes, you can use any pharmacy to fill your pet’s prescriptions. While our partner pharmacy offers the fastest service, with automated refills and free shipping, we’re happy to transfer prescriptions to your preferred pharmacy for a $5 processing fee.

To transfer a prescription, simply send your preferred pharmacy’s details to care@dutch.com.

We’ll even price-match if you find a better price at other U.S. pharmacies — just email us a screenshot of the price.

Who can answer questions about my pet’s medication?

Only your vet can answer questions regarding your pet’s current medication and their health. Fortunately, you’ll have unlimited follow-ups with Dutch-affiliated vets via your membership messaging portal.

What happens if my pet does not respond to medication?

Pets come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, so treatment will vary from animal to animal, and finding the best treatment plan for your unique pet may sometimes take a bit of trial and error. For this reason, follow-up consultations are included in your Dutch membership, so you can ensure your pet receives the care they need. That said, you can rest easy knowing recommendations are based on science and chosen by veterinary experts.

For the best results, make sure you’re closely following the treatment plan and administer medication correctly. If your pet is not showing signs of improvement after modifications to the treatment plan, your Dutch-affiliated veterinarian may refer you to your nearest vet.

How long will it take to see results from the medication?

The time it takes to see improvement depends on your pet’s specific condition and the type of medication prescribed. What’s most important is that Dutch will be with you every step of the way. Our vets provide ongoing support and can adjust your pet’s treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes.

REFERENCES

1. “Telehealth and the VCPR.” American Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/practice-management/telehealth-telemedicine-veterinary-practice/telehealth-and-vcpr.
2. DCA Waiver DCA-21-193 Order Further Extending DCA-21, 20 ... California Department of Consumer Affairs, https://www.dca.ca.gov/licensees/dca_21_193.pdf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dutch?

Dutch is an online veterinary pet telehealth service, created by pet parents and board-certified veterinary specialists. We use a science-backed approach to provide pets relief for their everyday physical and behavioral health issues. Dutch connects you with licensed veterinarians over video chat and messaging to help you get care for your dog or cat quickly wherever you are — without the stress or expense of a vet visit. 

We also partner with pharmacies who can deliver prescription medication (in applicable states only) and over-the-counter treatments directly to your door. Dutch isn’t a veterinary practice or pharmacy, but a company that helps facilitate these services for pet parents to make veterinary care more accessible to all.

What is a visit with Dutch like?

When booking a video call with a vet, you'll be asked a few questions about your pet’s health issue. Depending on the issue, you may also be asked to fill out a longer questionnaire about their symptoms and share photographs of them so our veterinarians can better understand what’s going on. You’ll then pick an appointment time that works best for you.

During your video call, one of our licensed veterinarians will talk to you about the symptoms your pet is experiencing, ask you questions, review your pet’s medical history if you’ve provided it, and answer any questions you have. The vet will ask to see your pet and their environment. And they may ask you to perform some simple checks on them if needed.

After your video call, the vet will send you a message with a custom treatment plan to help your pet feel better, including a link to buy any recommended prescription or over-the-counter medications. Place your order and we’ll ship it free.

How much will it cost for Dutch to treat my pet?

The Dutch membership starts at $11/mo for unlimited access to the vet. No more long waits for appointments or surprise bills.

In addition to the base membership plan, our veterinarians may also recommend additional medication (Rx and/or OTC) that you will have the option of adding to your plan at an additional cost.