Pet emergencies in the middle of the night is a situation no pet owner wants to face. When your regular clinic is closed, it can feel overwhelming to know what to do next.
In true emergency cases, heading straight to a 24-hour veterinary clinic is essential for your pet’s safety.
However, if the situation is less urgent or you need general advice, there are several online vet services available to assist you right from the comfort of your home.
What to Do in Urgent but Non-Emergency Situations
Call Your Regular Vet
If your vet offers 24-hour services, a quick call can provide immediate guidance. Even if your regular vet is closed, many clinics have arrangements with out-of-hours services, so you’re not left without options.
Calling ahead can help you determine whether your pet needs urgent care or if it can wait until the morning. This proactive step can save you a trip and ensure your pet gets the appropriate level of care.
Visit Your Local Veterinary Hospital
For cases that need prompt attention but aren’t life-threatening, consider heading straight to a local veterinary hospital that operates 24/7. These hospitals are equipped to handle a wide range of situations, but it’s important to note that they prioritize emergencies.
If your situation isn’t deemed critical, you may face a long wait, and the costs can be significantly higher than at your regular vet. Always call ahead to ensure the hospital can see you and is accepting new patients.
Top Online Vet Services for After-Hours Support
If visiting a vet in person isn’t an immediate option, online vet services provide a convenient alternative. Here are some top services that can help:
PangoVet
PangoVet offers virtual advice on various health concerns such as ear, skin, and gastrointestinal issues. For a current promotional price of $30, you can book a 20-minute video call to discuss your pet’s condition.
If the veterinary team determines that in-person care is needed, they’ll direct you to an open clinic nearby. However, note that PangoVet is not yet available in Ontario or British Columbia.
Vetster
Vetster allows pet owners in over 50 countries to connect with veterinarians via high-quality video calls.
You can choose to subscribe to Vetster Plus, which offers unlimited live chat with veterinary professionals and four video appointments annually, or opt for a pay-per-appointment plan starting at $69. The subscription plan provides ongoing support for about $140 per year, making it a valuable resource for continuous pet care.
Dutch
Dutch is a U.S.-based telemedicine service offering affordable subscription plans starting at just $7 per month. While Dutch does not provide one-off consultations like some other services, their subscription model offers consistent, accessible care for pet owners looking for ongoing support.
Dutch’s platform allows you to connect with licensed veterinarians via video calls and live chat, ensuring your pet’s needs are always met.
Chewy
Chewy is well-known for its pet products, but they also offer veterinary consultations. Although their service doesn’t operate 24/7, they are available from 6 A.M. to midnight Eastern Time.
A 20-minute consultation costs $19.99, and for pet owners with specific CarePlus insurance plans, these calls may be free. Chewy also offers the option to chat via live text if you prefer, making it a flexible solution for pet care outside regular hours.
When You Need Reassurance or Advice
Sometimes, you just need reassurance that your pet can wait until morning. Telehealth services offer the perfect solution by providing convenient, expert advice without leaving your home.
These services are not a replacement for in-person care during emergencies but are ideal for gaining peace of mind when your local clinic is closed.
FAQs
What is the best online vet service for emergency consultations?
While online vet services are helpful, they’re not a substitute for emergency in-person care. For emergencies, it’s always best to visit a 24-hour veterinary hospital immediately.
Can online vets prescribe medications?
Yes, many online vets can prescribe medications after a consultation. However, prescriptions will depend on your location and the vet’s assessment of your pet’s condition.
Are online vet services available 24/7?
Not all online vet services operate 24/7. However, services like PangoVet and Vetster offer flexible hours, making it easier to get help when you need it.
Is it expensive to use online vet services?
The cost of online vet services varies. For example, PangoVet currently offers a 20-minute video consultation for $30, while Vetster has plans starting at $69 per session.
How do I choose the right online vet service?
Consider the type of service you need (e.g., urgent care, general advice), the availability of the service, and whether they offer prescriptions. It’s also helpful to read reviews and check if the service is available in your area.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with pet issues in the middle of the night can be incredibly stressful. Fortunately, online veterinary services provide a lifeline, allowing you to get advice and support without waiting until morning.
Always remember, though, that in an emergency, getting to a 24-hour vet clinic as soon as possible is critical.
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