Have you ever contacted your veterinarian for a prescription refill and been told they can't do it without seeing your pet again? Now that virtual care is so popular, do you wonder why you can't choose a veterinarian in another state to work with virtually? The answer lies in something called the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR)— an established legal and ethical requirement in veterinary medicine.

Whether you're an experienced pet owner with questions or have just adopted your first pet, it's important to know a little about the VCPR and what you should expect during your pet's vet visits.

Understanding the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship

For a veterinarian to treat your pet, each state requires first that they get to know you and your pet. This is called the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship. 

A VCPR is established when a veterinarian agrees to take responsibility for your pet's clinical case. This includes taking a medical history, performing a physical examination, and implementing your pet's treatments. The veterinarian must supervise the veterinary team to achieve the best possible outcome for your pet and maintain records of your pet's treatment. When the veterinarian is unavailable, they will provide coverage or recommend a local clinic to provide care in their absence.

You're part of this relationship agreement as well. You agree to provide the veterinarian with an accurate medical history, including diet, medications, treats, supplements, and a description of the home environment. As the pet owner, you will follow the instructions from the veterinary team.

This relationship between you, your pet, and your veterinarian makes up the VCPR, which ensures your pet gets the best possible care. 

Virtual Examinations and the VCPR 

Each state sets laws for establishing a Veterinarian-Client-Patient relationship within their state. This is important when considering telehealth visits via video, chat, or telephone with a veterinarian. 

Establishing a VCPR virtually with a veterinarian who is new to you and your pet is legal in only a handful of states. This means that, in most states, if you do a virtual visit with a veterinarian your pet has never seen in person, that veterinarian will not be able to diagnose, prescribe, or perform any treatments for your pet. However, in other states, if your veterinarian has seen your pet previously (usually within the past six-12 months), a telehealth visit is permitted, including prescribing. 

There are a few states in which no telehealth visits are permitted. To determine the VCPR status of your state, please check out this map.

Why the VCPR Means You Might Have to See Your Vet for Refills and Flare-Ups

You may have run into this situation. Your pet needs a refill of their prescription food or ongoing medication, or they've had a flare-up of a past issue. You reach out via phone or email, hoping for a quick solution, but are told the vet needs to see your pet again before they can refill the prescription or recommend treatments. It's frustrating, but there's a good reason for it. It's part of the VCPR guidelines and ensures the needs of you, your pet, and your veterinarian are met to provide the best care for your animal. 

Our pets' lives are much shorter than ours, and their health can change quite a bit in six to 12 months. States require that after a predetermined amount of time, pets be re-examined before things like medication refills to ensure the treatment is still appropriate for the pet's weight, condition, and age. 

For example, a pet who has lost or gained weight may need a different dosage of medication. A pet who has developed kidney disease may need a different diet. A valid VCPR is a requirement even if they've had the same health issue for years. It can feel like a hassle, but it's done to protect your pet.

How to Build and Maintain a Positive VCPR

The VCPR is established when a veterinarian examines your pet. Regular visits maintain that relationship. This may seem cut and dry, but there are plenty of ways that you can contribute to that relationship.

Come Prepared to the Appointment 

• Bring prior medical records to a new or first vet visit
• Bring your pet’s prescriptions and OTC medications and supplements to the visit
• Track your pet’s daily food and water intake
• Share the brand of food your pet eats with your vet
• Have a list of questions and concerns to ask at your appointment (if you have any)

Having a sense of your pet’s normal behavior and routine can also clue you into any changes, which you can share with your veterinarian.

Some questions your veterinarian might ask you include:

• What diet does your pet eat? 
• How much time does your pet spend outdoors?
• Has your pet changed their behavior, energy level, eating, or drinking?
• Have you noticed any vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or sneezing?
• Are you giving monthly heartworm, flea, and tick preventative and have any doses been missed or late? 
• What type of exercise does your pet get?

Don't feel shy about giving answers that sound less than ideal, like letting your vet know you missed a dose of medication or that you aren't playing with your pet every day. It happens and doesn't mean you're a bad caregiver. The more honest you are, the better treatment your pet will receive. 

Advocate for Your Nervous Pet

Plenty of pets get nervous going to or at the vet’s office. Don't be afraid to ask your veterinarian to speak softly and handle your pet with extra sensitivity if they're anxious. Medication is available, both before and during the visit, if needed. You can also use treats and other positive reinforcers throughout your appointment to show your pet that good things happen when they're at the vet. 

Ask Questions and Voice Concerns

Since discussions about care often include a lot of medical terms and veterinary terminology, this is a great time to ask any questions that come up. With the VCPR established, you can also call the office and ask questions after the visit.

You may request a cost estimate for your pet’s care plan. This is a good time to discuss the pros and cons of the diagnostic and treatment options, alternatives, and your list of questions if they have not yet been answered. 

Be honest if the options offered are not feasible for you. Your veterinarian wants treatment to succeed and may be able to alter the plan so that it's a better fit for everyone. Remember, the VCPR is a relationship that works both ways. For your pet's treatment to succeed, you and your vet need to trust one another. 

Long-Term Health Management for Your Pet

Most relationships with veterinarians are long-term. A strong VCPR that includes mutual trust and respect will help you and your veterinary team communicate and collaborate more easily, which benefits your pet throughout their life.