When something seems off with your pet, it’s not always easy to know what to do next. Does your pet need an office visit? Can it wait until morning? Or could an online veterinarian help?
Virtual veterinary care gives you another way to get professional guidance without leaving home. In the right situations, it can provide answers sooner and potentially help avoid an unnecessary trip to the vet.
When Should You Use an Online Vet?
Often, the first thing you need is help figuring out what to do next. For non-emergency concerns, an online veterinarian can be a convenient resource.
Depending on your pet's needs, virtual care may be useful for questions about minor skin irritation or itching, mild stomach issues, nutrition, behavior, and other common concerns. An online veterinarian can also help identify when an in-person examination is the better choice.
What would you do?
Your dog comes inside with a swollen paw after a possible bee sting. Is it something you can monitor at home, or does it require a trip to the vet?
Instead of sorting through conflicting information online, a virtual visit connects you with a licensed veterinarian who can recommend next steps and explain what warning signs to watch for. That can mean answers sooner, peace of mind, and potentially avoiding an unnecessary trip and expense.
And sometimes there isn't an obvious injury—your pet just isn't acting like themselves. Maybe they're eating less, having bathroom changes, or don't want to play. An online vet can help you talk through what you're noticing and determine what to do next.
How Online Vet Care Can Help You Save
Savings can go beyond an office visit. Getting veterinary guidance from home may save travel time and costs and time away from work.
Before paying for an online consultation, check benefits you may already have. First Mid Benefits Checking accounts include eVet services with 24/7 access to thousands of licensed veterinarians and a $0 copay, plus a Pet & Owner Lifestyle Concierge service.
It's not about avoiding necessary care—it's about getting professional guidance to make an informed decision for your pet and your budget.
Quick tip: Have your pet's medications and recent health information handy for an online consultation. Keep notes to share with your regular veterinarian if follow-up care is needed and to put on file.
Build a Pet-Care Plan That Works for You
Planning ahead can help you manage everyday questions, routine care, and unexpected expenses with greater confidence.
Everyday guidance: Know where to turn when questions come up. Before paying for an online vet service, check your bank account benefits, pet insurance, employer benefits, or other memberships—you may already have access to virtual veterinary care.
Regular care: Maintain a relationship with a local veterinarian who knows your pet and can provide hands-on exams, preventive care, and ongoing treatment.
Unexpected expenses: Include pet care in your emergency savings and consider pet insurance for another layer of financial protection. First Mid Insurance Group offers customizable ASPCA Pet Health Insurance options for different needs and budgets, with a 10% discount for First Mid customers and the freedom to continue seeing the veterinarian you trust.
Pets are family. A little planning can help you focus on what matters most—their care, not the unexpected cost.
Everyday benefits like eVets can make life a little easier. Explore what else is included with First Mid Benefits Checking.
Insurance products and services offered through First Mid Insurance Group are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not insured by the FDIC or any governmental agency, are not guaranteed, and may lose value.