Best Online Vet Services Compared

A comprehensive look at the top online veterinary services — pricing, features, and which one is right for your pet.

FeatureSidekick VetDutchPawpVetster
Pricing$35/visit$20–$60/mo$24/mo$50–$100+/visit
Subscription required
Connection speedMinutesHoursMinutesBrowse & book
Emergency / urgent support~
After-hours availability~~
Video consultations~
PrescriptionsNo — coordinates with local vetNot all statesSome vets (not all states)
Works with your regular vet
Visit summary for your vet
24-hour follow-up

How Sidekick Vet Is Different

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Pay per visit

$35 flat rate. No subscription, no hidden fees. Pay only when you need help.

Built for urgency

Connect in minutes. Available after hours and weekends when other services aren't.

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Works with your vet

Visit summaries sent to your regular vet. We complement your care, not replace it.

Online Vet Services FAQ

What is the best online vet service?
It depends on your needs. For urgent and after-hours care without a subscription, Sidekick Vet is the best choice at $35 per visit. For chronic condition management with prescriptions, Dutch may be a fit. For browsing and choosing a specific vet, Vetster is an option. Pawp offers subscription-based 24/7 chat access.
Are online vet consultations legitimate?
Yes. Reputable online vet services like Sidekick Vet, Dutch, Pawp, and Vetster employ licensed veterinarians. Online consultations are best for triage, urgent questions, and guidance — not for procedures or physical examinations. Always go to an in-person vet for hands-on care.
How much does an online vet visit cost?
Prices vary: Sidekick Vet charges a flat $35 per visit. Vetster ranges from $50–$100+ depending on the vet. Dutch charges $20–$60/month as a subscription. Pawp charges $24/month. Sidekick Vet is the most affordable option for occasional use since there is no subscription.
Can an online vet prescribe medication?
It depends on the service. Teletriage services like Sidekick Vet and Pawp don’t prescribe because they don’t establish a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). Sidekick Vet coordinates with your local vet and provides a visit summary to help you get prescriptions when needed. Dutch includes prescriptions in its subscription (not all states). Vetster vets may prescribe depending on your location.
When should I use an online vet vs. going to the clinic?
Use an online vet for urgent questions, triage, after-hours concerns, and guidance on whether something needs in-person care. Go to a clinic for physical exams, vaccinations, surgery, dental work, or any situation where your pet needs hands-on treatment. Services like Sidekick Vet help you decide which is appropriate.

The most affordable online vet visit

$35 per visit. No subscription. Connect with a licensed vet in minutes.