As hundreds of state laws came into effect on January 1, two pieces of legislation will have a direct impact on pet owners in San Diego.
One of the laws addresses the challenges pet owners face in obtaining medical care for their animals. Raul Lustria, a local pet owner, expressed the difficulty of scheduling separate appointments for his dogs’ shots, often requiring him to take time off work to visit the vet. To alleviate such challenges, a new state law now enables veterinarians to prescribe medication via video conference calls in certain situations. This development aligns with the telehealth options that gained popularity among humans during the pandemic. However, veterinarians are restricted from prescribing controlled substances without an in-person physical exam, ensuring responsible and ethical use of telehealth in pet care.
Laura Halsey, a veterinarian with Telltale Veterinary Urgent Care, emphasized the positive and negative aspects of the new law. While telehealth visits can provide an initial diagnosis and offer convenience for busy schedules, Halsey cautioned that relying solely on virtual consultations might lead to additional expenses if an in-person vet visit becomes necessary. She encouraged pet owners not to delay seeking urgent care in emergencies, emphasizing the unique challenge in veterinary medicine where patients cannot communicate their symptoms verbally.
The second law impacting pet owners pertains to shelters. It mandates cities and counties to make at least one shelter option available to people with pets during emergencies. Additionally, counties opening warming and cooling centers during extreme weather must include a pet-friendly option when feasible. This legislation recognizes the importance of providing support and accommodations for individuals with pets during crisis situations.
As these new laws come into effect, San Diego pet owners now have enhanced options for obtaining veterinary care and increased support for their pets during emergencies.
