Online Vet Visit Preparation Checklist

Free printable pet-owner resource

Use this checklist to organize facts and questions before a veterinary phone or video appointment. Online care is not suitable for every problem, and prescribing rules can depend on location and the veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

Printable version: Download the Online Vet Visit Preparation Checklist PDF. This free resource contains no affiliate links.

Before the appointment

• Write down when the problem started and whether it is improving, worsening, or changing.
• List appetite, water intake, urination, bowel movements, sleep, activity, breathing, and behavior changes.
• Collect recent records, test results, vaccination history, diagnoses, allergies, weight, and your regular clinic’s contact details.
• Prepare a complete medication list: prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, preventives, supplements, dose, schedule, and last dose.
• Take clear photos or short videos in good light when safe. Do not delay urgent care to make a recording.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit place with a stable connection. Keep your pet nearby without forcing restraint that could cause injury or distress.

Questions to ask the online veterinarian

• Can this concern be assessed remotely, or does my pet need a physical examination?
• What changes should trigger urgent or emergency care?
• What information, photo, video, measurement, or record would improve the assessment?
• If medication is discussed: why is it used, how is it given, what warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do after a missed or extra dose?
• What is the follow-up plan, and who should I contact if the condition changes?
• Will I receive a written summary, and how will records be shared with my regular veterinarian?

When not to wait for an online appointment

Seek prompt veterinary or emergency help for severe trauma, choking, suspected poisoning, heatstroke, loss of consciousness, seizures, excessive bleeding, difficulty standing, paralysis, pale gums, or rapid or difficult breathing. This is not a complete emergency list. Do not delay urgent care while taking photos or waiting for an online appointment.

Save the name, telephone number, address, route, and after-hours instructions for a nearby emergency clinic before a crisis occurs.

Appointment notes to record

• Pet name and appointment date
• Main concern and when it began
• Recent changes in symptoms or routine
• Recommended next step and timing
• Emergency warning signs discussed
• Follow-up contact and record-sharing plan

Important: This checklist is educational and does not diagnose or treat a condition. Follow the advice of a licensed veterinarian who can assess your individual pet.

Sources and further reading

• AAHA: Veterinary Telehealth
• FDA: Medications for Your Pet — Questions for Your Vet
• FDA: Veterinary Medication Errors
• ASPCA: Emergency Care for Your Pet

About this resource: SavingCat created this checklist to help pet owners organize an online veterinary conversation. Providers and animal-welfare organizations may link to or print the unmodified checklist with attribution to SavingCat. Last reviewed September 10, 2026.