Online services are becoming increasingly popular these days and are almost impossible to do without. So an online consultation with your doctor or veterinarian is not at all crazy these days.
Telemedicine, or telemedicine, allows pet owners to get an online consultation with a veterinarian via electronic or telecommunications services.
In this article, you will find out what telemedicine, or online vet consultation, can do for you and your pet.
When is telemedicine useful for veterinarians?
During the pandemic, telemedicine has become increasingly popular among veterinarians and their clients. As in the following situations:
- In bad weather or during rush hour
- Outside regular business hours
- For people with limited mobility or who live far away
Veterinarians today are using telemedicine for online consultations with clients, to view medical histories, and even to make a examine pet virtually.
Research showed a satisfaction rate of 79%, based on human telemedicine.
Symptoms that veterinarians can diagnose via telemedicine
Telemedicine can be the solution to many types of problems. Still, in life-threatening emergencies, you will always need to take your pet to the veterinarian in person.
Symptoms or problems that your veterinarian can diagnose through telemedicine include:
- Allergies, skin rashes, ear infections and insect bites
- Fleas and ticks
- Diet, weight and behavioral problems
- Back pain, cuts and bruises
- Mild cough and bronchitis
- Bladder infections, vomiting and diarrhea
- Follow-up consultations after surgeries
Disadvantages of telemedicine
Besides the time- and cost-saving benefits, there are some drawbacks. The veterinarian cannot examine your pet with technical equipment or take X-rays. In these cases, a personal visit is still always required.
Telemedicine is not a substitute for emergency treatment. When in doubt, a direct visit to the veterinarian is the best option.
At certain times, a quick online consultation is sufficient and an in-person visit is no longer necessary.
What you need to know before booking an online consultation
Be familiar with the app or provider the veterinarian uses. You will receive information prior to the consultation, such as:
- Explaining how telemedicine works
- Cost overview and guide for a technical failure
- Payment options
- Obtaining medical prescriptions and medical records
- How your veterinarian communicates with other veterinary professionals.
Also, your veterinarian will ask for an "official authorization" before a consultation.
How does an online consultation for my pet work?
During your online vet consultation, you can expect questions such as:
- What is the problem?
- How long has your pet been experiencing this problem?
- What is the severity of the problem?
- How did the problem arise and develop?
- Symptoms of pain?
- What is the medical history?
- Does your pet have allergies or medications?
You will need to point the camera at certain parts of your pet during the consultation. So make sure you have a portable camera that you can easily move around.
If necessary, ask for help from your partner/friend to hold up your pet or camera for the veterinarian. The veterinarian can look at:
- The eye reflexes
- The color of the gums
- Respiration
- How your pet moves
- Skin injuries or other types of wounds
What happens after the online examination of my pet?
The veterinarian will give the possible diagnosis. Depending on the problem, further tests may be necessary. Perhaps the veterinarian will prescribe a medical prescription for you to pick up.
Sometimes a follow-up visit is necessary. After the consultation, you will receive an email with the details and conclusion of your conversation. Including tips on what to do if further problems arise.
Online consultation through Cooper Pet Care
Cooper Pet Care realizes the busy lives pet owners can have. If your cat or dog has a problem you are concerned about, you can contact Cooper Pet Care and schedule an instant online consultation with a full qualified veterinarian.
For your peace of mind, Cooper Pet Care can offer you simple, hassle-free pet insurance. Whatever the future may bring you and your pet!
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