FAQ2026-07-24T19:24:14-08:00

Frequently Asked Questions
About SoCal TeleVet

Have questions about virtual vet exams or in-home vet tech services?

Find answers about scheduling, pricing, prescriptions, service areas, appointment preparation, and available care for dogs and cats throughout Orange County, Los Angeles County, and Southern California.

General

What is SoCal TeleVet?2026-07-24T15:04:00-08:00

SoCal TeleVet provides virtual veterinary appointments with licensed California veterinarians, along with in-home Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) house visits throughout Southern California.

Where do you provide services?2026-07-24T15:05:30-08:00

Virtual appointments are available anywhere in California. House visits are available throughout Orange County, Los Angeles County and most of Southern California.

What animals do you see?2026-07-24T15:05:43-08:00

We currently see dogs and cats.

Why is SoCal TeleVet Different?2026-07-24T15:06:34-08:00

SoCal TeleVet was built by a Registered Veterinary Technician with over 13 years of experience and is backed by licensed California veterinarians who practice current, evidence-based medicine. We provide stress-free care from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need for waiting rooms while offering convenient prescription options and experienced in-home RVT support throughout Southern California. We work collaboratively with your primary veterinarian whenever needed and are committed to making high-quality veterinary care more accessible, convenient, and affordable for pet owners.

Virtual Exam

How does a virtual appointment work?2026-07-24T15:07:28-08:00

Book your appointment online, and you’ll receive a secure Google Meet link by email. During the visit, one of our licensed California veterinarians will evaluate your pet, discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and recommend the best next steps. If appropriate, they can prescribe medication, provide a treatment plan, recommend an in-home technician visit, or refer you to a veterinary clinic for further care.

What do I need for a virtual vet appointment?2026-07-24T15:07:56-08:00
  • Smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone
  • Stable internet connection
  • Quiet, well-lit space for the appointment
  • Have your pet nearby and ready for the exam
  • Current medications, medical records, or photos/videos of symptoms (if available)
  • Please have your pet’s current weight available, if possible. If you don’t know their current weight, you can weigh yourself while holding your pet, then subtract your own weight to estimate your pet’s weight.
  • Follow your veterinarian’s guidance during the exam
  • Cat owners: You only need to hold your cat during the physical exam. Once the exam is complete, your cat can roam freely while you continue speaking with the veterinarian.
Can I get a prescription?2026-07-24T15:08:41-08:00

Yes, when medically appropriate and allowed under California law. Medications can be sent through our online pharmacy or provided as a written prescription. Controlled substances cannot be prescribed through telehealth.

Does my pet need to be in California?2026-07-24T15:10:45-08:00

Yes. Your pet must be physically located in California during the appointment.

What conditions can be treated virtually?2026-07-24T15:11:22-08:00

Virtual appointments are ideal for many non-emergency concerns, including allergies, itching and skin conditions, ear and eye problems, vomiting, diarrhea, urinary issues, coughing, arthritis and joint discomfort, anxiety, stress, behavioral concerns, destructive behavior, diet and nutrition, flea, tick, and parasite prevention, medication refills, seasonal shedding, and general wellness questions. If your pet needs hands-on care, we’ll recommend an in-home technician visit or referral to a veterinary clinic.

What if my pet needs emergency care?2026-07-24T15:12:04-08:00

If your pet is having trouble breathing, collapse, severe bleeding, seizures, toxin ingestion, or major trauma, please seek immediate care at the nearest emergency veterinary hospital. For a list of urgent warning signs, visit our “Uh-Ohs” section.

After your pet has been evaluated, our team is happy to provide follow-up care, answer your questions, and help guide you through the recovery process if needed.

Pricing

How much is a virtual exam?2026-07-24T15:12:31-08:00

Virtual exams start at $60 for a 15-minute consultation with one of our licensed California veterinarians. If additional services, diagnostics, medications, or house visits are recommended, you’ll receive an estimate by email or text for your review and approval.

How much are house visits?2026-07-24T15:12:50-08:00

House visits start at $180 plus any diagnostics or treatments performed for most of Southern California.

Do you accept pet insurance?2026-07-24T15:13:05-08:00

We do not bill insurance directly, but we can provide invoices for reimbursement.

Booking

How quickly can I get an appointment?2026-07-24T15:13:35-08:00

We offer next-day virtual appointments and same-week house visits.

How do I book an appointment?2026-07-24T15:14:25-08:00

Booking is easy! Schedule your appointment online at your convenience. After booking, you’ll receive a secure Google Meet link and an invitation to create your pet’s profile in our veterinary software, NectarVet, no app required, just your phone number.

Once your profile is complete, we’ll send you two forms to complete before your appointment. You can access your pet’s medical records at any time by visiting the Client Portal on our website and logging in with your phone number.

What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?2026-07-24T15:18:07-08:00

We kindly ask that you reschedule or cancel your appointment at least 24 hours in advance. If you need to make changes within 24 hours due to unexpected circumstances, please contact us, and we’ll do our best to help. Refunds are available for appointments canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled appointment.

Can my regular veterinarian still be involved?2026-07-24T15:18:25-08:00

Absolutely! We are happy to collaborate with your primary veterinarian and share medical records to ensure continuity of care. We can also provide referrals and additional resources whenever needed.

Prescriptions

Can you refill my pet’s medications?2026-07-24T15:18:44-08:00

Often yes, if medically appropriate.

How long does it take to receive my prescription?2026-07-24T15:18:59-08:00

In most cases, prescriptions are processed within an hour after your appointment, once your pet’s medical record is complete. We can email you a written prescription or send it to our online pharmacy for convenient home delivery.

House Visits

What happens during a house visit?2026-07-24T15:19:23-08:00

During your house visit, one of our experienced Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) and a veterinary assistant will come to your home to provide the services recommended by your veterinarian. They will obtain your pet’s vital signs, review their medical history, and perform approved outpatient services such as vaccinations, blood and urine collection, diagnostic testing, medication administration, and other treatments. Our goal is to provide compassionate, low-stress care in the comfort of your pet’s familiar environment.

Why choose a house visit?2026-07-24T15:20:30-08:00

House visits help reduce your pet’s fear, stress, and anxiety by providing care in the comfort of your home. Our experienced Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) deliver compassionate, high-quality care and are a more affordable alternative to many traditional mobile veterinary services.

How long does a visit take?2026-07-24T15:20:55-08:00

Most house visits take approximately 30 minutes. Visits lasting longer than 30 minutes may incur an additional fee.

Do I need to be home?2026-07-24T15:21:08-08:00

Yes. An adult owner or authorized caregiver must be present.