Virtual Veterinary Care in Canada

Welcome to our web page dedicated to tracking veterinary telehealth policy across Canada. Telehealth has the potential to improve animal welfare, increase efficiency, and expand access to veterinary care for everyone.

By tracking veterinary telehealth policy across Canada, we aim to provide a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in the use of telehealth in veterinary medicine. Through our research and analysis, we seek to identify the policies and regulations governing veterinary telehealth in different Canadian territories, as well as the benefits and challenges associated with telehealth in veterinary medicine.

Last Updated: March 5, 2024

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Updates

March 5th, 2024

Update: Changes in Veterinary Virtual Care Requirements in Quebec 

On February 6, 2023, a significant decision was made to ease virtual care conditions in Quebec. Notably, the requirement for a pre-established in-person veterinary doctor-client-patient relationship (VCPR) has been removed, extending across most Canadian provinces.

This change aims to boost veterinary care accessibility, retain professionals, and improve animal health. Despite adjustments made during the pandemic, no investigation requests concerning virtual veterinary care were received, underscoring the effectiveness of existing public protection mechanisms.

Ethical obligations remain intact, with veterinarians required to adhere to recognized standards and exercise professional judgment.

This update not only improves accessibility to veterinary care but also paves the way for a more connected and compassionate future in animal health. 

 
**the virtual consult must be by video to establish the VCPR. Once the VCPR is established, the consults can be via phone or email.