Governor Katie Hobbs has signed into law Senate Bill 1053, which will allow veterinarians licensed in Arizona to establish a veterinary-client relationship through telemedicine. Introduced by Senator T.J. Shope and put forward by the Arizona Humane Society and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, the legislation allows veterinarians to use technology to deliver virtual care to pets in need, bridging the gap between the state-wide veterinarian shortage with safe, effective and timely care.

Last year alone, we saw a 13 percent increase in the number of animals that were surrendered to our shelter by their owners for medical reasons. Today, if you call our hospitals, the first available appointment is six weeks out. This new legislation helps to keep pets in loving homes and alleviate undue suffering.

“Senate Bill 1053 is not just about access to veterinary care, it is about access to quality veterinary care,” said Dr. Steven Hansen, AHS President and CEO. “We know there is a shortage of veterinarians in our state, especially in rural Arizona, and the telemedicine bill will allow veterinarians and veterinary hospitals to triage and manage cases before they are severe and to help patients that need it most. We could not be more thrilled for this important piece of legislation to become law.”

Arizona is now just one of a handful of states in the country to implement this exciting and lifesaving legislative action for those who need it most.