Washington State Expands Veterinary Telemedicine Access with New Law
OLYMPIA – Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed House Bill (H.B.) 2247 into law on March 25, 2026, allowing veterinarians to utilize telemedicine technology for both new and existing patients. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Lisa Parshley and Debra Lekanoff, aims to improve access to veterinary care across the state, particularly for those in underserved areas.
Addressing Veterinary Care Shortages
The new law comes as the U.S. Faces a growing shortage of veterinary professionals. Studies predict that 75 million pets in the U.S. Could lack healthcare access by 2030 if the issue isn’t addressed. Washington state currently scores a 44 out of 100 on the Veterinary Care Accessibility Score, highlighting the need for increased access to care.
How the Law Works
H.B. 2247 permits veterinarians to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship through telehealth under specific circumstances. This will enable more Washington families to access veterinary care for their pets, especially those in remote locations or facing logistical or financial barriers to traditional clinic visits.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
“Lack of access to veterinary care is one of the top reasons families are forced to produce the heartbreaking decision to relinquish their pet to a shelter. By increasing access to veterinary telemedicine, H.B. 2247 will facilitate keep pets in loving homes, reduce stress for pets and owners alike, and alleviate animal suffering in Washington,” said Brittany Benesi, ASPCA senior director of state legislation for the Western Division.
Representative Lisa Parshley, DVM, the bill’s primary author, added, “No family should have to watch their pet suffer from a treatable condition. With the governor’s signature, Washington pet owners in rural areas, veterinary deserts, who lack transportation, have mobility issues, or who otherwise struggle to access veterinary care, will be able to have their pets seen by Washington-licensed veterinarians via telehealth when they need it most.”
Growing Trend in Veterinary Telemedicine
Washington joins a growing number of states enabling veterinarians to treat new patients via telehealth, including Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, New Jersey, Ohio, Vermont, and Virginia. According to a 2025 PetSmart Charities-Gallup poll, over half of pet owners report having to forego necessary veterinary care. A recent ASPCA survey too revealed that 4 in 10 pet owners are unsure if they can afford their pet’s routine medical needs.
Effective Date
H.B. 2247 will move into effect on July 1, 2027.
For more information about the ASPCA, visit www.aspca.org.