Last updated on September 3rd, 2026 at 11:14 pm
Need a Vet Now? Here’s Your Solution
As a pet owner, you’ve probably been in this situation before: your dog suddenly starts limping, your cat won’t eat, or your puppy has an upset stomach—after hours, on a weekend, or when your vet’s office is fully booked. You’re left wondering: Should I rush to the emergency vet or wait it out?
Affiliate Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase something through our links. This helps support our website and allows us to continue providing valuable content. See our full disclosure here.
This is where Dutch comes in. Vetster is a 24/7 online vet service that connects you with licensed veterinarians through video or chat, so you can get expert advice without leaving your home. Whether you need peace of mind or an actual treatment plan, Dutch makes it easy to talk to a vet online instantly.
What Is Dutch and How Does It Work?
Dutch is a pet telehealth platform that allows pet owners to book virtual vet consultations via video or chat. With thousands of licensed veterinarians available, you can quickly get expert advice for your dog, cat, or even exotic pets.
How Does Dutch Online Vet Care Work?
Dutch makes getting veterinary advice from home pretty simple. Here’s how it works:
1. Sign up for Dutch
Start by creating an account and choosing a Dutch membership. You’ll provide some basic information about your pet and their health.
2. Tell them what’s going on with your pet
Before your appointment, you’ll answer a few questions about your pet’s symptoms and concerns. This gives the veterinarian some background information before your visit.
3. Meet with a veterinarian online
You’ll have a 10-minute video call with a licensed veterinarian. During the appointment, you can discuss your concerns, answer questions about your pet’s symptoms and medical history, and show the veterinarian your pet on camera.
4. Get a personalized treatment plan
After the appointment, your veterinarian will provide recommendations and next steps based on your pet’s individual needs.
5. Get medication if needed
If medication is appropriate and can legally be prescribed through telemedicine in your state, your veterinarian may prescribe it through Dutch. Prescription and over-the-counter medications recommended for your pet can also be shipped directly to your home.
6. Follow up with your vet
One of the benefits of a Dutch membership is continued access to veterinary care. Membership includes unlimited vet calls and messaging, so you can ask follow-up questions or schedule another appointment when needed.
Just remember that telemedicine isn’t appropriate for every situation. If your pet needs emergency care, diagnostic testing, X-rays, surgery, or another service that requires a hands-on examination, you’ll still need to visit a veterinarian in person.
→ Need to talk to a vet now? Book an online consultation with Dutch.
How Much Does Dutch Cost?
Dutch plans currently start at $11 per month when you choose an annual membership, or $132 per year. The annual plan covers up to five pets and includes unlimited video calls and messaging with licensed veterinarians.
Keep in mind that medications and other treatments are not included in the membership fee and will cost extra if your pet needs them.
Does Dutch Take Pet Insurance?
Some pet insurance providers reimburse virtual vet visits, so it’s worth checking with your provider. If you have a health savings plan for your pet, you may be able to use it for Dutch consultations.
When Should You Use Dutch?
Dutch is perfect for situations where you need quick veterinary advice but don’t necessarily require an in-person exam.
Common reasons to use Dutch:
✔️ Mild illnesses like diarrhea, vomiting, itching, coughing, limping
✔️ Behavioral concerns like anxiety, excessive licking, sudden aggression
✔️ Skin & ear issues like hot spots, ear infections, rashes
✔️ Nutritional guidance like diet recommendations, weight management
✔️ Medication refills – (Where allowed by state regulations)
✔️ Second opinions – If you’re unsure about a diagnosis or treatment.
When to visit an in-person vet instead:
❌ Severe injuries (fractures, deep wounds)
❌ Difficulty breathing
❌ Toxicity or poisoning
❌ Blocked urinary tract (especially in male cats)
Why Dutch Is The BEST Choice
You choose your own veterinarian. Unlike some services that assign you a vet at random, Dutch lets you pick a vet based on experience, pricing, and reviews.
Video calls provide better care. Some online vet services offer only text chat, but Dutch’s video consultations allow for a more thorough evaluation of your pet.
Available whenever you need it. Whether it’s midnight or a holiday, you can get veterinary advice without waiting days for an appointment.
How to Get Started With Dutch
Getting started with Dutch is quick and easy.
✔️ Step 1 — Visit Dutch’s website here.
✔️ Step 2 — Sign up for a Dutch membership and create a profile for your pet.
✔️ Step 3 — Tell Dutch what’s going on with your pet by answering a few questions about their health and your concerns.
✔️ Step 4 — Schedule a video appointment with a licensed veterinarian at a time that works for you.
✔️ Step 5 — Meet with the veterinarian online to discuss your pet and get a personalized treatment plan.
✔️ Step 6 — Get prescriptions if needed. If medication is appropriate and can legally be prescribed through telemedicine in your state, your veterinarian can prescribe treatment and medications can be shipped directly to your home.
💡 Pro Tip: Your Dutch membership includes unlimited vet calls and messaging, so you can follow up with a veterinarian if you have questions after your appointment.
Final Verdict – Is Dutch Worth It?
If you’re looking for fast, affordable, and expert veterinary advice without leaving home, Dutch is a great option to consider. It’s convenient—you can talk to a licensed vet anytime, from anywhere. It’s affordable—often costing far less than an emergency vet visit.
And with easy booking and access to real medical guidance from trusted professionals, Dutch makes getting help for your pet simpler than ever.
Need to talk to a vet now? Click here to book an online Dutch appointment.
Have you used Dutch before? Share your experience in the comments below!
Dr. Georgina Ushi is a veterinarian and freelance medical writer. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009. Dr. Ushi has worked for 16 years in the Tampa Bay area, providing compassionate care to dogs, cats, and exotic pets.
In addition to her clinical work, she serves as an adjunct instructor at Florida A&M University, teaching in the veterinary technology program. Dr. Ushi also consults for pet well-being brands and writes evidence-based pet health content for Pet Health Love, as well as for PetMD. She is passionate about educating and empowering pet owners through clear, trustworthy information.
Her professional interests include emergency medicine, dermatology, pet telehealth, nutrition, and wildlife medicine.
2 Comments