LAS VEGAS, NV, January 24, 2024 — A groundbreaking new study published in the prestigious Frontiers in Veterinary Science Journal demonstrates the potential of veterinary telehealth to reach animals never before reported receiving such care. The research, led by Dr. Shadi Ireifej and Dr. Justin Krol, details 15 distinct animal types – from exotic pets to wildlife – successfully aided through virtual consultations via the VetTriage platform.
This landmark achievement marks the first time these species, ranging from capybaras and sugar gliders to chinchillas and red foxes, have been documented receiving any form of veterinary telehealth. The study highlights the versatility and accessibility of telehealth, offering a vital lifeline for owners of less common animals and wildlife caretakers often facing limited veterinary options.
“This case series opens doors for countless animals and their caregivers,” emphasizes Dr. Ireifej. “By leveraging technology, we can bridge geographical and logistical gaps, ensuring timely medical guidance and potentially lifesaving interventions even for the most unconventional patients.”
The study showcases how VetTriage empowers owners and rehabilitators to make informed decisions about their animals’ well-being. Through live video consultations, veterinary professionals can assess situations remotely, differentiate between emergencies requiring immediate in-person care and those manageable with home interventions. In the latter cases, owners receive clear instructions and crucial knowledge to monitor their animal’s progress until a full recovery or a local appointment becomes possible.
“Beyond the immediate impact on these specific animals,” Dr. Krol adds, “this study paves the way for broader telehealth adoption in veterinary medicine. By documenting the successful application of teletriage in such diverse species, we encourage further research and development in this rapidly evolving field.”
The researchers emphasize the significance of this study not only for expanding telehealth awareness among veterinary professionals and animal caretakers, but also for documenting, for the first time, the utilization of teletriage in these never-before-reported species. This paves the way for future, larger-scale studies to further refine and improve veterinary telehealth, ultimately enhancing the lives of both animals and the veterinary profession across the globe. Read the full study here: https://bit.ly/3U4SwP0
Justin Krol, a 2017 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine graduate from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, studies aquatic pathogens and diseases. Dr. Krol has published on White Spot Syndrome Virus in the Gulf of Mexico infecting invasive Tiger Prawns as well as on WSSV infecting the native crayfish species in Alabama. Adding to his already stellar career, while practicing in a local small animal practice, he is currently en route to receiving his PhD in the fisheries department at Auburn University.
Shadi Ireifej, a 2006 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine graduate from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, is a board certified small animal surgeon best known for his role as owner, founder and Chief Medical Officer of VetTriage. He gives talks to audiences in the veterinary space nationwide, both at universities and conferences on various topics. He has published six veterinary medical research papers (first author in four) and he is frequently invited to television shows, radio shows, podcasts and news segments.
