Best Online Veterinarians: Vetster Tops the ListBest Online Veterinarians: Vetster Tops the List

In This Article

• Final Verdict
• Compare Veterinarians
• FAQ
• Methodology

Online veterinarians offer a modern twist on the traditional house call, providing virtual care for pets right from the comfort of your home. With the rise of telemedicine, numerous online-only vet services have emerged, many offering 24/7 access to veterinary professionals through chat or video appointments.

While virtual consultations can’t entirely replace in-person vet visits, they are invaluable for quick advice on your pet’s diet, behavioral issues, and other health concerns. If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a rundown of the best online veterinarians.

Best Overall: Vetster

Key Specs:

• Services: 24/7 on-demand vet appointments, prescription service (limited availability in the U.S.), wellness plans
• Unique Features: Curated collection of pet telehealth news and resources
• Cost: Starting at $50, but varies by vet and location

Why We Chose It:
Vetster’s marketplace-based approach connects you with veterinary professionals in your area, providing flexibility and choice.

Pros:

• Option to choose between veterinarians and vet techs
• Emphasis on finding local professionals
• Detailed profiles and review systems

Cons:

• Limited vet options in some areas

Overview:
Vetster operates similarly to popular apps like Rover, enabling users to find and book telehealth appointments with vets nearby. The platform allows you to choose between vets and vet techs, offering budget flexibility based on your needs. The user-friendly interface often supports same-day appointments, with professional profiles listing qualifications and areas of expertise.

Best With Brick and Mortar: Banfield Vet Chat

Key Specs:

• Services: Virtual office visits, 24/7 live vet chat, nutritional coaching sessions
• Unique Features: Price estimator tool
• Cost: Wellness plans start at $36.95/month for dogs and $29.95/month for cats, varying by factors like age, breed, and location

Why We Chose It:
Banfield Pet Hospital integrates its extensive network of over 1,000 locations with its online Vet Chat service, providing consistent care.

Pros:

• 24/7 access to veterinary advice
• Well-designed app
• Seamless transition between online and in-person care

Cons:

• Requires enrollment in a wellness plan
• Text-only chat interface

Overview:
Banfield Pet Hospital’s Vet Chat service complements its in-person care, offering 24/7 access to vets through an easy-to-use app and website. This service is particularly beneficial for Banfield patients, ensuring continuity of care. However, it necessitates enrollment in their Optimum Wellness Plan, with costs varying based on various factors.

Best Budget-Friendly Option: PetCoach

Key Specs:

• Services: Online consultations and expert forum
• Unique Features: Ask a Vet, Educational Center, healthy pet weight calculator
• Cost: $20 for live chat consultations; $5 per question in the forum

Why We Chose It:
PetCoach stands out for its affordability and comprehensive free content on veterinary health.

Pros:

• More affordable than other telehealth services
• Publishes user-submitted questions and vet responses
• Available as an app

Cons:

• Some services are hard to find on the site
• Content isn’t well-organized by pet type

Overview:
PetCoach offers a cost-effective solution for pet telehealth, providing both live consultations and a wealth of free information. Users can submit questions to vets at a low cost or schedule telehealth appointments. Despite a somewhat cluttered website, the app offers a more streamlined experience.

Best Subscription: whiskerDocs

Key Specs:

• Services: 24/7 chat, phone, and text messaging
• Unique Features: Health library
• Cost: $16.99/month or $129.99/year subscriptions; $39.99 per call or live chat; $4.99 per email consultation

Why We Chose It:
whiskerDocs offers a convenient subscription model, providing round-the-clock access to veterinary advice.

Pros:

• Subscription service for frequent vet consultations
• Single-visit options available
• 24/7 access to veterinary professionals

Cons:

• Cannot prescribe medications

Overview:
whiskerDocs is ideal for pet owners who frequently seek veterinary advice. This service offers various communication methods, including email, phone, and chat, with options for both subscriptions and one-time consultations. However, it doesn’t offer prescription services.

Final Verdict

While online vet appointments are not a substitute for in-person visits, they offer quick access to professional advice and can help determine if a physical exam is necessary. Vetster stands out as the best overall due to its flexible, user-friendly platform and extensive vet options. For those seeking affordable or subscription-based services, PetCoach and whiskerDocs are excellent alternatives.

Compare the Best Online Veterinarians

FAQ

Methodology

We evaluated online veterinarian services based on ease of use, range of services, and user experience. Our top choices offer streamlined access to qualified veterinary professionals, making virtual pet care both convenient and effective.