Telemedicine for Veterinary Care: Suitability for Itching & Scratching
- Dr. Zeke Zekoff
- Apr 29
- 2 min read
Telemedicine has become a valuable tool in veterinary care, allowing veterinarians to assess and manage common conditions remotely. One such condition is itching or scratching in animals, which can sometimes be evaluated via virtual consultation. The Veterinary Virtual Care Association (VVCA) provides a framework for determining whether a telemedicine visit is appropriate for these cases.
Assessing Telemedicine Suitability
The first step in determining whether telemedicine can be used is evaluating whether a sufficient patient history can be obtained. If pet owners can provide an adequate description of their animal’s condition—including details such as duration, frequency, and any observable triggers—remote consultation becomes more viable.
Another critical factor is the animal’s temperament, specifically whether their behavior appears normal and alert. If a veterinarian cannot adequately assess this via video or the pet appears lethargic or distressed, an in-person physical exam may be recommended.
Next, veterinarians assess whether they can obtain a clear visual of the pet’s haircoat. The ability to examine the overall condition of the coat and pinpoint specific areas of concern, such as redness, lesions, or patches of missing fur, is crucial for diagnosing skin-related issues remotely. If these observations are not possible, an in-clinic visit may be necessary.
Finally, the veterinarian must consider whether additional diagnostic tests are required. While some skin conditions can be effectively diagnosed through telemedicine—such as fleas, allergic dermatitis, and pyoderma—others may necessitate lab tests or skin scrapings that cannot be conducted virtually.
The Future of Veterinary Telemedicine
Telemedicine relies heavily on remote observation, making it essential for veterinarians to use available tools to enhance assessments. While virtual care is not always a replacement for an in-person exam, it provides a convenient option for evaluating certain conditions.
Looking ahead, advancements in in-home diagnostic tools and remote monitoring devices will further enhance telemedicine capabilities. The VVCA emphasizes that telemedicine is a form of veterinary medicine that depends on professional judgment, and practitioners may adapt their strategies to provide quality care remotely.
As technology continues to evolve, telemedicine will play an increasingly significant role in helping pet owners access veterinary expertise efficiently, making care more accessible and reducing unnecessary clinic visits for certain conditions.
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