Virtual Vet Visit Setup: What Technology Do You Need?

A virtual vet visit does not require fancy equipment. If you have a smartphone or a computer with a camera and a decent internet connection, you are ready. A little setup, though, can make a big difference in how clearly the vet can see and hear your pet.

The basics you need

• A device with a camera: A smartphone is usually best because you can move it around your pet easily.
• A stable internet connection: Wi-Fi is ideal. Weak signals cause frozen video and dropped calls.
• A charged battery: Plug in or charge your phone before the call.
• The service’s app or website: Log in ahead of time so you are not resetting a password while your pet is sick.

Lighting makes a big difference

Good lighting helps the vet see things like gum color, skin redness and eye discharge.

• Use natural daylight near a window when possible.
• Avoid backlighting, like sitting in front of a bright window.
• Use your phone’s flashlight for close-ups of the mouth, ears or paws.
• Turn on room lights for night visits.

Sound and setting

• Choose a quiet room away from TV, kids and other pets.
• Use headphones if you want to hear clearly while holding your pet.
• Have a helper if possible, so one person holds the pet and the other holds the phone.

Prepare your pet

• Keep treats handy to keep your pet calm and still.
• Have a leash or carrier nearby for pets who wander.
• Put your pet on a non-slip surface, like a rug or towel, if the vet needs to see them walk.

Our tips for taking photos and videos of symptoms show you how to record helpful footage before the call too.

Have information ready

Write down your pet’s age, weight, medications, recent changes and a short timeline of symptoms. Our symptom checklist can help. If your pet has recent lab results, keep them handy. Our guide to understanding your pet’s blood work explains what the numbers mean.

If the video will not work

Do not panic. Most services let you switch to chat or a voice call and send photos instead. Video quality depends on your connection, camera and lighting, and a clear photo often tells the vet as much as a shaky video. Read more about online vet chat vs. video call.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do a virtual vet visit on my phone?

Yes. Phones are often the best option because you can move closer to your pet and use the flashlight.

Do I need to download special software?

It depends on the service. Some use an app, others work in your browser. Check before you need help.

Ready for your first virtual vet visit? Ask a vet

Talk to a licensed vet 24/7, even on holidays, by chat, voice call or video call. Your first month is free with code FREEMONTH, then US $9.99/month, at nyptelevet.com/. One membership covers up to 6 pets, and you can cancel anytime.

Our vets can’t prescribe medication, but they’ll tell you what’s likely needed and when an in-person visit is the next step.

Sources

• Veterinary Telehealth: The Basics, American Veterinary Medical Association
• Veterinarians Find Limits, Benefits in Distance Care, American Veterinary Medical Association
• How Can My Pet Have Stress-Free Veterinary Visits?, American Animal Hospital Association