As we look ahead to 2026, the veterinary industry faces a significant challenge: a chronic shortage of veterinary professionals. However, there are various policy initiatives aimed at addressing this issue. Organizations like the Animal Policy Group are at the forefront, advocating for solutions such as the introduction of mid-level professionals, enhanced utilization of veterinary technicians, expanded licensure, and telemedicine options.
Within this context, states like Arizona and Florida are returning to their legislatures to push for expanded telemedicine care for animals. Both states were pioneers in implementing veterinary telemedicine laws, joining a total of eight states that currently permit clients to establish a veterinary-client-patient relationship (E-VCPR) through telemedicine. This advancement serves over 120 million Americans across a diverse political landscape.
Despite the progress, Arizona and Florida currently enforce some of the most restrictive telemedicine prescription laws in the country. In Arizona, prescriptions are limited to a 14-day supply with only one refill, whereas Florida allows for a one-month supply with no refills. In contrast, many other states that permit E-VCPRs provide veterinarians with the autonomy to determine prescription lengths, with states like California offering up to a six-month prescription with a corresponding six-month refill.
Both states are now taking steps to amend these restrictions, recognizing the value of telemedicine in enhancing pet care. The overwhelming support for these changes is evident, as Florida's bill passed the House with near-unanimous backing, and Arizona's bill successfully advanced through committee and awaits consideration by the Senate.
Encouragingly, four additional states—Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island—have introduced legislation this session to allow for the establishment of a veterinary-client-patient relationship via telemedicine. If these bills pass, we could witness another substantial increase in states capable of providing essential veterinary care. This expansion would particularly benefit elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and residents in rural areas or so-called “care deserts.”
The momentum behind veterinary telemedicine is undeniable. Its implementation has already demonstrated the ability to safely improve access to care not just for pets, but for their owners and veterinary professionals alike. The success in states like Florida and Arizona, coupled with the ongoing legislative efforts in others, suggests a bright future for telemedicine in veterinary practice. As we look toward the future, we are eager to see this trend continue, expanding access to quality veterinary care nationwide.
Written by Loren Breen, Director of Government Relations at Animal Policy Group