Online Vet Consultation: What to Expect, Step by Step

If you have never done an online vet consultation, it helps to know what to expect. Here is the whole process, from preparing to follow-up.

Before the consultation

Create your account and your pet's profile. Include species, breed, age, weight and health history
Gather information: medications, food, vaccine status and any recent changes
Take photos and video: clear, well-lit shots of the area of concern
Write down a short timeline: when it started, what changed and what you have tried
Choose a quiet spot with a good connection

Step 1: Connect

Open the app and start a chat. With Waggle Vet, there is no appointment, and you can request a chat; response times depend on availability, 24/7.

Step 2: Describe the problem

Share what you have noticed in your own words. Mention appetite, thirst, energy, breathing, stool, urine and behavior.

Step 3: Share photos and video

Send what you prepared. Your vet may ask for more, such as a view of the gums, a walking video or a photo of the stool.

Step 4: Answer the vet's questions

Expect questions about your pet's history, diet and environment. Clear answers help the vet give useful advice.

Step 5: Get guidance

The vet will explain what could be going on, what to do at home, what to watch for and whether an in-person visit is needed. If a physical exam or tests are needed, find a vet near me.

Step 6: Ask your questions

Good questions include:

What are the likely causes?
What should I do at home tonight?
What signs mean I should go in immediately?
When should I follow up?
Is there anything I should avoid?

Step 7: Review the summary

Consultation summaries are saved in the app. You can also save related documents in your Waggle Vault.

Step 8: Follow up

If your pet gets better, great. If anything changes or you are still unsure, reconnect. Many owners also check in with their regular vet.

What a consultation cannot do

It cannot replace an exam or tests, and it is not for emergencies. If your pet shows trouble breathing, collapse, seizures, suspected poisoning or severe injury, go to an emergency clinic.

FAQs

How long does a consultation last?

It varies with the problem.

Do I need a video call?

Chat is often enough, but video helps for movement, breathing and behavior.

Will I get a record?

Yes, summaries are saved in the Waggle Vet app.

Check current Waggle Vet access and eligibility terms. Start a consultation.

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

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