Florida Legislation Seeks to Expand Veterinary Telemedicine Access
- Dr. Zeke Zekoff
- Apr 28
- 1 min read
Updated: May 3
A proposed Florida bill, H.B. 849/S.B. 1040, also known as the Providing Equity in Telehealth Services (P.E.T.S.) Act, aims to expand access to veterinary care by empowering veterinarians to use telemedicine.
The legislation would allow licensed veterinarians to connect with pet owners through the internet or video calls, enabling pets to receive care from the comfort of their homes.
Current Florida law requires veterinarians to have recently examined an animal in person before practicing veterinary medicine or prescribing medication. The ASPCA argues that this pre-COVID-19 era law creates obstacles for pet owners, animal shelters, and veterinarians, especially given the current shortage of veterinary professionals.
The bill has received unanimous approval from the Florida Legislature and is now awaiting Governor DeSantis's signature to become law.
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