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Mark Cushing, a lawyer and consultant, has become a central figure in the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine over the past two decades. His influence spans various areas, from advocating for telemedicine to pushing for the creation of a mid-level veterinary professional.    Cushing's involvement in the veterinary field began with his successful lobbying efforts on behalf of Banfield Pet Hospital regarding pet microchip standards. This victory led him to establish Animal Policy Group, a consultancy firm that advises companies, veterinary schools, and other organizations on navigating the political and commercial aspects of the veterinary industry.    Cushing is a key player in the push to expand veterinary telemedicine, arguing that it increases access to care. He co-founded the Veterinary Virtual Care Association to support this cause. His advocacy has led to legislative changes in several states, allowing for the remote establishment of the veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR).    Another significant initiative Cushing is involved in is the establishment of a mid-level veterinary role, similar to physician assistants or nurse practitioners in human medicine. This effort aims to address the shortage of veterinarians and improve the efficiency of veterinary practices.    Cushing's influence isn't without controversy. He often clashes with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), which expresses concern that his initiatives could lower professional standards and prioritize corporate interests. Some critics also question Cushing's motives, suggesting that his advocacy is driven by financial gain.    Despite the criticism, Cushing's impact on the veterinary profession is undeniable. He has played a crucial role in the development of new veterinary schools and continues to advocate for changes that he believes will improve access to and the delivery of veterinary care. Whether viewed as a visionary or a disruptor, Mark Cushing is a force to be reckoned with in the veterinary world.

Most dog owners know their pet’s weight, but fewer understand how that number translates into real health insights. That’s where the Body Condition Score (BCS)  comes in—a standardized 9-point system developed to evaluate your dog’s body fat and overall condition in a way that goes beyond the scale. Understanding where your dog falls on this scale is one of the simplest, most impactful steps you can take to support their long-term health, mobility, and quality of life. What Is the Body Condition Score? The BCS is a visual and tactile assessment that measures how much body fat your dog has, using specific physical landmarks like the ribs, waist, and abdominal tuck. It ranges from 1 to 9 , where: 1–3  = Underweight 4–5  = Ideal 6–9  = Overweight to Obese This approach is more accurate than weight alone because it accounts for your dog’s shape and fat distribution—not just what the scale says. The Three Categories: What They Mean Under Ideal (1–3/9) Ribs, spine, and hip bones are clearly visible No body fat  is present Muscle mass may be reduced Dogs may appear frail, with sharp contours This category suggests malnourishment or chronic illness and should be evaluated by a vet as soon as possible. Ideal (4–5/9) Ribs are easily felt  with a slight fat covering Waist is visible from above Abdominal tuck is present when viewed from the side This is the healthiest range. Dogs in this zone are less prone to joint issues, metabolic disease, and obesity-related complications. Veterinary research confirms that dogs kept at an ideal BCS live longer and enjoy better quality of life. Over Ideal (6–9/9) Ribs are difficult to feel  due to excess fat Waist is barely visible or absent Abdominal tuck is reduced or missing Fat deposits may appear around the tail, spine, neck, and limbs At the higher end (8–9/9), dogs may have massive fat deposits  and visible abdominal distention. This level of obesity significantly increases the risk of: Diabetes Heart and respiratory disease Arthritis and joint stress Reduced lifespan Why This Matters More Than Weight Alone Two dogs can weigh the same but have very different health profiles. A muscular, active dog may be at a higher weight but perfectly healthy, while a sedentary dog of the same weight may be overweight. That’s why vets use the BCS system—because it's about composition, not just pounds . How to Check Your Dog’s BCS at Home Feel the ribs : You should be able to feel (but not see) them easily without pressing hard. Look from above : Your dog should have a slight hourglass shape behind the ribs. Look from the side : A clear abdominal tuck should be visible behind the ribcage. If you’re unsure, bring your dog to the vet for a hands-on demonstration. Final Thoughts Your dog’s Body Condition Score is more than a number—it’s a powerful tool that can guide feeding, exercise, and veterinary care decisions. By maintaining your pet in the ideal BCS range, you’re doing more than managing weight—you’re actively investing in their health, comfort, and longevity. Because a healthy body means more tail wags, longer walks, and years of happiness for you both.

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.

The Florida Senate is considering legislation (SB 1040) to officially define and regulate the practice of veterinary telehealth in the state. This bill seeks to integrate telehealth into veterinary practices, providing a framework for veterinarians to offer remote care while ensuring responsible and ethical service delivery.    Key Components of the Bill Definition of Veterinary Telehealth:  The bill defines "veterinary telehealth" as the use of telecommunications technology to provide health care services, including assessment, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, and monitoring of patients.    Authorization and Jurisdiction:  Licensed veterinarians in Florida would be authorized to practice veterinary telehealth. The Florida Board of Veterinary Medicine would have jurisdiction over veterinarians practicing telehealth, regardless of the veterinarian's physical location; the practice of veterinary medicine is considered to occur where the veterinarian, the patient, or both are located during the telehealth service.    Requirements for Telehealth Practice: A veterinarian/client/patient relationship is required for veterinary telehealth.    Veterinarians must adhere to the same standard of care as in-person services and use sound professional judgment in determining if telehealth is appropriate.    Initial patient evaluations to establish the veterinarian/client/patient relationship can be conducted via synchronous, audiovisual communication but not through audio-only communication, text messaging, questionnaires, chatbots, or similar methods.    If a veterinarian diagnoses and treats a patient using telehealth, they are not required to research the patient's medical history or conduct a physical examination before providing telehealth services.    Veterinarians must provide clients with specific information, including their name, license number, contact information, and instructions for follow-up care.    Informed consent must be obtained from the client before practicing veterinary telehealth.    Prescribing Regulations: Veterinarians can order, prescribe, or make available medicinal drugs approved for animal use by the FDA, following approved labeling.    Prescriptions based solely on a telehealth evaluation are limited to 1-month supplies for flea and tick control products and up to 14 days of treatment for other animal drugs, and cannot be renewed without an in-person examination.    Veterinarians cannot prescribe drugs approved for human use or compounded antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, or antiparasitic medications without an in-person physical examination or medically appropriate and timely visits to the animal's premises.    Controlled substances cannot be prescribed via telehealth without an in-person physical examination or medically appropriate and timely visits within the past year to the animal's premises.    Telehealth cannot be used to prescribe drugs for horses engaged in racing or training under the jurisdiction of the Florida Gaming Control Commission or covered by the federal Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act.    Additional Requirements:  Veterinarians using telehealth must be familiar with nearby veterinary resources, keep and maintain patient records, and are prohibited from issuing international or interstate travel certificates or certificates of veterinary inspection via telehealth.    Food-Producing Animals:  Specific provisions are included for veterinarians acquainted with the care of food-producing animals on agricultural land, allowing them to practice telehealth under certain conditions.    This bill aims to modernize veterinary practices in Florida by integrating telehealth, offering greater flexibility in animal care while maintaining standards for patient health and safety.

Arizona is taking a major step forward in veterinary healthcare by supporting a new bill that expands the use of telemedicine services for animals. With strong backing from advocates and veterinary professionals, this legislation is poised to improve access to care across the state, particularly benefiting rural and underserved communities. Addressing Barriers to Veterinary Services Across Arizona, many pet owners struggle to access timely veterinary care due to distance, mobility issues, or a shortage of veterinary clinics. The new telemedicine bill aims to break down these barriers by allowing licensed veterinarians to consult with pet owners remotely. Through virtual visits, vets can diagnose conditions, recommend treatments, and manage ongoing care without the need for in-person exams in many cases. Key Features of the Bill The legislation enables veterinarians to establish a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) via telehealth, something that previously required an in-person visit. This change mirrors the broader acceptance of telehealth in human medicine, where remote consultations have proven safe, effective, and efficient. Veterinarians still must use their professional judgment to determine when a physical examination is necessary, ensuring that pet welfare remains the top priority. The flexibility of the bill allows care to be tailored to each animal's needs, balancing convenience with quality standards. Broad Support for the Change The Arizona Telemedicine Program, along with various veterinary organizations, strongly supports the bill, noting its potential to bring much-needed services to isolated areas. Supporters argue that it not only improves access but also enhances public health by ensuring that more pets receive preventive and ongoing medical care. Positive Impacts for Pet Owners and Animals By embracing telehealth, Arizona aims to make veterinary care more affordable and accessible. Pet owners can consult with professionals more easily, avoid long travel times, and get quick advice in urgent situations. For animals, this means faster treatment and a better chance at healthy, happy lives. A Step Toward the Future Arizona’s move to modernize veterinary care is part of a broader national trend recognizing the role of technology in expanding healthcare access. This initiative stands to benefit countless pets and their owners, setting a positive example for other states to follow.

Ohio is considering a new bill that would amend current regulations to establish specific requirements and procedures for veterinarian telehealth visits. This legislation aims to modernize the way veterinarians can interact with clients and their animal patients, offering more flexibility in providing care.    The bill focuses on amending section 4741.04 and enacting section 4741.041 of the Revised Code. Section 4741.04 outlines the conditions for establishing a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR), which is fundamental to veterinary practice. The proposed amendment would update how a veterinarian can gain "sufficient knowledge" of the patient to make a diagnosis.    Currently, this knowledge is typically acquired through an in-person examination at the veterinarian's office. The new bill would add the option of examining the patient in real-time via telehealth services as a means of establishing the VCPR. This would allow veterinarians to use technology to assess animals remotely, potentially increasing access to care, especially in situations where in-person visits are difficult.    Proposed section 4741.041 details the specific requirements for conducting telehealth services. Key provisions include:    Informed Consent:  Veterinarians must obtain informed consent from the client, ensuring they understand that telehealth visits are subject to the same standards of care as in-person visits. Documentation of this consent must be maintained for at least three years.    Communication:  Veterinarians must provide their name and contact information to the client and secure an alternative way to communicate if the telehealth visit is interrupted. Following the visit, the veterinarian must provide the client with an electronic or written record, including the veterinarian's license number.    Transparency:  Before the telehealth evaluation, veterinarians must advise clients that an in-person visit might be recommended, that federal law restricts prescribing certain drugs via telehealth, that the telehealth appointment can be terminated at any time, and that the veterinarian may recommend an in-person veterinarian.    Prescribing Medications:  Veterinarians can prescribe drugs after establishing a VCPR via telehealth, with some limitations. Initial prescriptions are limited to a 30-day supply, with one possible 30-day refill if another telehealth visit occurs. Additional refills require an in-person visit. Veterinarians must also inform clients if medications are available at a pharmacy and provide the prescription to the client's pharmacy of choice if requested. Importantly, controlled substances cannot be prescribed without an in-person physical examination.    This bill reflects a growing recognition of the potential benefits of telehealth in veterinary medicine, balancing the need to maintain quality care with the convenience and accessibility that technology can offer.

In 2023, the State of Arizona passed Senate Bill 1053, a significant piece of legislation aimed at modernizing veterinary medicine by incorporating telehealth practices.  This bill amends sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically addressing how veterinarians can establish patient relationships and provide care through electronic means.     Key Provisions of the Bill Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR):  The bill explicitly allows veterinarians to establish a VCPR electronically, provided certain conditions are met.  This is a critical update, as it acknowledges the role of technology in delivering veterinary care.    Informed Consent and Standards of Care:  Veterinarians must obtain informed consent from clients, ensuring they understand that the same standards of care apply to telehealth visits as to in-person visits.     Prescribing Medications:  The legislation addresses the prescription of drugs and medications through electronic means.  It sets specific rules for initial prescriptions and renewals, and it restricts the prescription of controlled substances without an in-person examination.     Availability for Follow-Up Care:  Veterinarians using telehealth must be available for follow-up evaluations or be able to refer clients to local veterinarians for in-person care.     Record-Keeping and Client Communication:  The bill mandates that veterinarians provide clients with necessary contact information and maintain thorough records of telehealth consultations, including the veterinarian’s license number.     Impact and Significance Senate Bill 1053 represents a major advancement in how veterinary medicine is practiced in Arizona.  By integrating telehealth, it has the potential to:    Increase Access to Care:  Telehealth can extend veterinary services to underserved areas or pet owners with mobility issues. Improve Convenience:  Pet owners may find it easier to schedule and attend virtual appointments for certain types of care. Enhance Efficiency:  Telehealth can streamline certain aspects of veterinary practice, allowing for more focused in-person visits when necessary. Overall, this legislation reflects a progressive approach to veterinary medicine, embracing technology to improve animal health and well-being.

A new bill was signed into law in Arizona on May 9, 2023, aimed at expanding access to veterinary care for pets across the state. Senate Bill 1053, introduced by Senator T.J. Shope, will now allow veterinarians licensed in Arizona to establish a veterinary-client relationship through telemedicine. This legislation was supported and put forward by the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA).    The new law enables veterinarians to use technology to provide virtual care to animals in need, addressing the shortage of veterinarians in the state. It is expected to particularly benefit pets in rural areas, economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, and tribal lands, where access to veterinary care is often limited. Steve Farley, CEO of HSSA, emphasized that this law will help veterinarians manage cases sooner, preventing them from becoming severe and improving animal welfare.    The Arizona Humane Society highlighted the growing problem of pet owners surrendering their animals due to medical reasons, noting a 13% increase in such surrenders in the past year. With clinics facing appointment wait times of up to six weeks, this new legislation aims to ensure that more pets can receive timely care and stay in their loving homes.    In addition to enabling virtual care, the law will also allow veterinarians to provide short-term, non-controlled substance prescriptions through telemedicine. Arizona is now one of the few states to adopt such a progressive measure.    To further support veterinary services in the state, AHS and HSSA have jointly advocated for the Veterinary Loan Assistance Program. This program offers student loan reimbursement of up to $100,000 for veterinarians who commit to working in Arizona for at least four years, with at least two of those years spent in a municipal, county, or nonprofit shelter, or in a USDA-designated agricultural shortage area.    The Arizona Humane Society and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona are key animal welfare organizations in the region. AHS, guided by its Ethical No-Kill Philosophy™, provides a range of services including a trauma hospital, medical and foster programs, and behavior intervention. HSSA has been serving Southern Arizona since 1944, focusing on assisting shelters and providing care for pets with serious medical needs.

Arizona has taken a significant step towards modernizing veterinary medicine with the passage of Senate Bill 1053. This legislation allows veterinarians to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) using audio-video communication technology, expanding access to care and offering greater flexibility in how veterinary services are delivered.     Key Changes Introduced by SB 1053 Establishing VCPR Electronically : The bill permits veterinarians to establish a VCPR through real-time electronic examinations using audio-video communication.  This acknowledges the role of telemedicine in contemporary veterinary practice.    Conditions for Electronic VCPR : To establish a VCPR electronically, veterinarians must: Be licensed or hold a permit in the state.     Obtain informed consent from the client, ensuring they understand that electronic visits adhere to the same standards of care as in-person visits.     Provide the client with their name, contact information, and license number, and secure an alternative means of communication in case of interruption.     Advise the client that an in-person visit may be necessary, that federal law restricts some drug prescriptions via electronic exams, and that the electronic appointment can be terminated at any time.     Be able to recommend a local veterinarian for in-person care, ensuring the client has a choice.     Prescribing Medications : The bill also addresses prescribing medications through electronic VCPRs, with the following stipulations: Initial prescriptions are limited to a 14-day supply and can be renewed once for another 14 days following an additional electronic examination.     Further renewals require an in-person examination.     Controlled substances cannot be prescribed unless the veterinarian has conducted an in-person physical examination or made appropriate visits to the animal's location.     Prescriptions must be made available at the client's preferred pharmacy, when possible, and adhere to all state and federal laws.     Exclusions : Importantly, the bill prohibits the establishment of a VCPR electronically for animals used in commercial food production.     Regulatory Oversight : The provision of veterinary services through electronic means will be subject to the rules and regulations of the Arizona State Veterinary Medical Examining Board.     Impact Senate Bill 1053 intends to modernize veterinary practices in Arizona, allowing for the use of telemedicine to enhance animal care.  It balances the need to embrace technological advancements with the necessity of maintaining high standards of veterinary care and ensuring the well-being of animals.

Veterinary telehealth is at a crossroads, with increasing demands from pet owners for easier access to care. Dr. Sarah Wallace Mitten argues that the veterinary profession needs to broaden its understanding of telehealth to fully meet the needs of pet owners and their animals.    Mitten's perspective is shaped by her experience with Animal Help Ukraine, where telehealth was used to provide care for thousands of pets affected by the war. This experience revealed that a significant portion of cases could be resolved remotely, challenging the conventional definition of care.    The traditional view often equates "care" with in-person exams, limiting the scope of what veterinarians can offer. Mitten contends that this narrow definition overlooks the numerous health-related decisions pet owners make daily outside of the clinic. Telehealth can play a crucial role in supporting these decisions and ensuring pets receive timely and appropriate care.    Pet owners are increasingly seeking veterinary advice through online sources like Google and social media. By embracing telehealth, veterinarians can redirect pet owners away from unreliable information and towards professional guidance.    However, the term "telehealth" has become diluted, encompassing various services that don't always prioritize increased access to care. Mitten suggests moving away from this ambiguous term and focusing on "decision support". This approach emphasizes the veterinarian's role in helping pet owners navigate care options, including when in-person visits are necessary and when they are not.    Ultimately, Mitten advocates for a more inclusive model of veterinary care that integrates telehealth to better serve pets and their owners.

The veterinary industry has lagged behind human medicine in adopting telemedicine, but that's changing.  The use of telemedicine in animal health care in the U.S. began in 2016 with the formation of the Veterinary Innovation Council.  This led to key developments such as the AAVSB's endorsement of veterinary telemedicine in 2018 and the creation of the Veterinary Virtual Care Association in 2020.     During the COVID-19 pandemic, 17 states and the FDA temporarily waived restrictions on virtual veterinarian-client-patient relationships (VCPR).  By 2024, states like Arizona, California, Virginia, New Jersey, Idaho, and Florida had permanently allowed telemedicine VCPRs.  Currently, over 100 million Americans live in areas where a veterinary relationship can begin virtually.     Interestingly, the rate at which veterinary telemedicine is being adopted is similar to that of human telemedicine.  Human telemedicine started with a few pioneering states and then rapidly expanded, with all 50 states now allowing doctors to establish patient relationships virtually, typically using video communication.     Human telemedicine's roots go back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the federal government funded research projects to explore its use.  Early telemedicine involved phone calls, closed-circuit television, and video telecommunication.  Oklahoma was the first state to adopt public telemedicine practices in 1993, using "store and forward" technology.     As states have become more comfortable with telemedicine's ability to support traditional care, criticism has decreased.  Now, many legislators are recognizing its benefits for pets, particularly for owners with limited access to veterinary care.  While the debate continues, the trend suggests that more states will approve virtual VCPRs in the coming years, and telemedicine will be seen as a valuable tool rather than a replacement for in-clinic visits.

Telemedicine has become increasingly popular for humans, offering remote diagnosis, treatment, and prescriptions through various technologies like video calls and online portals.  This convenience allows patients to access healthcare from home, with many common medications available without a physical exam.  Human telemedicine has evolved over decades, with regulations in place to protect patient safety and privacy.     Veterinary telehealth, however, faces stricter rules.  Many state veterinary boards mandate a physical exam to establish a Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) before providing remote care.  This difference stems from the fact that animals can't verbally describe their symptoms, making a physical exam seem crucial for accurate diagnosis.     But is this traditional approach always best? The article argues that the VCPR has its flaws.  Animals often experience stress during vet visits, which can hinder thorough examinations.  In some cases, sedation is required, which can mask symptoms and is often declined by owners.     Technology offers a potential solution.  Tools like email, videos, and photos can assist in initial assessments, and future advancements may improve remote diagnostics.  Combining telehealth with traditional exams could create a more flexible system, reducing animal stress and improving care.  Updating regulations to embrace telehealth could ultimately benefit animals, owners, and veterinarians.