Update—September 9, 2024: The Washington Veterinary Board of Governors voted to advance this proposal to the next stage, and a second vote will take place on December 9. Please urge the Board to set aside the proposal on December 9 and instead take measures to expand access to veterinary telehealth.
Washington is facing an unprecedented veterinary shortage and pet owners are having difficulty accessing veterinary care. Despite these challenges, a proposal before the Washington Veterinary Board of Governors aims to restrict the use of veterinary telemedicine—leaving pet owners with even fewer options for obtaining care.
Encourage the Washington Veterinary Board of Governors to use their power to increase access to vet care. Instead of further restricting the use of remote appointments, Washington-licensed veterinarians should be empowered to use telemedicine technology for new and existing patients.
The Washington Veterinary Board of Governors is a division of the state's Department of Health. Its mission is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public and their animals by regulating the quality of Washington's healthcare providers and facilities.
Veterinary telemedicine is a critical tool for the veterinary field. Using this tool, licensed veterinarians can easily connect with clients, and it benefits a wide range of people and pets. Video calls enable veterinarians to provide excellent medical care when clinics are short-staffed; they offer flexibility for pet owners who are unable to take time off work or make a long drive to the clinic; and they allow pets who have anxiety, mobility problems, and other medical conditions to stay comfortable at home.
People are taking advantage of telehealth for their own medical care, and it’s time for Washington to allow the benefits of this technology to extend fully to the veterinary field, including new patients.
What You Can Do
Please use the form below to send an email asking the Washington Veterinary Board of Governors to reject this proposal and instead expand access to veterinary care in Washington.