Best Online Vet Services of 2026, Compared

Note: this guide is published by Waggle Vet. We list ourselves first because we built Waggle Vet around the features below, but you should compare services on the criteria that matter to you. Pricing and features change, so confirm current details on each provider's website.

Choosing among online vet services can feel confusing. They differ in how they charge, how fast you can reach a vet, which pets they cover and what you get afterward. Here is how to compare them.

What to compare

Licensed vets. The service should use licensed veterinarians
Availability. 24/7 access, or limited hours
Speed. Response times depend on availability, or schedule ahead
Pricing model. Membership, pay-per-visit or a mix, and whether there is a trial
Pets covered. Dogs and cats only, or birds and exotics too
Chat and video. Both, or one
Records. Whether summaries are saved
Extras. Prescription policies, emergency funds or other benefits, which can have eligibility rules
Clear limits. The service should be honest about what it cannot do

1. Waggle Vet

Waggle Vet offers live chat with licensed vet professionals, 24/7, with no appointment. It covers dogs and cats; ask about species support before relying on the service. Consultation summaries are saved in the app, and you should provide any relevant hardware readings yourself. Check current access, eligibility and plan terms. An Emergency Fund benefit is available to eligible members, with eligibility applying.

2. Pawp

A membership-based service that markets 24/7 vet access and an emergency fund benefit. Check the current pricing, plan terms and eligibility on its website.

3. Vetster

A marketplace where you choose a vet and book a chat or video consult, with pay-per-appointment and membership options. Prices and availability vary, so check its site.

4. Dutch

A telehealth service that emphasizes treatment plans for common conditions, with medications where a vet decides it is appropriate and local rules allow. Check what is available in your state.

5. Airvet

An app offering access to vets by chat or video. Check its current plans and hours.

6. FirstVet

A video-focused vet consultation service. Check its current pricing and availability.

7. Chewy Connect With a Vet

A vet access option tied to Chewy accounts. Check what is included and any fees.

How to decide

For round-the-clock access at a low monthly cost: look for 24/7 membership options with a free trial
For choosing a specific vet: a marketplace model may suit you
For exotic pets and birds: confirm species coverage before you sign up
For records: choose a service that saves summaries

Use telehealth wisely

No online service replaces emergency care or a hands-on exam. For emergencies, go to an emergency vet near me, and keep your pet's records in a digital pet health vault.

FAQs

What is the best online vet?

It depends on what you need, so compare availability, cost, pets covered and records.

Are online vets worth it?

Many owners find them valuable for triage and everyday questions.

Do I need a membership?

Some services use memberships and others charge per visit.

Service limits and further guidance

Waggle Vet currently provides live chat guidance, not a promised live video or phone consultation. Access, response times and species support depend on current availability and eligibility. Do not assume medication can be prescribed: state licensure, a valid VCPR, veterinary judgment and federal requirements apply. An in-person examination may be needed.

AVMA: telehealth and the veterinarian-client-patient relationship

Pawp: current official service information

Vetster: current official service information

Dutch: current official service information

Airvet: current official service information

Chewy: current official service information

FirstVet: current official service information

Sources checked October 14, 2026. These references do not constitute veterinary review or endorsement of this article.