SB 1442: A Lifeline for Texas Rescues—and the Animals They Serve

In the world of animal rescue, every minute matters. Sick, injured, and neglected animals rely on swift, compassionate intervention. But for many rescue organizations—especially those in rural or underserved areas—veterinary care is often hours away or prohibitively expensive. Find your legislator here 

That’s why Texas Senate Bill 1442 (SB 1442) matters so much.

SB 1442 proposes to modernize Texas veterinary care by allowing veterinarians to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) via telemedicine—including phone or video consultations.

Right now, Texas law requires an in-person visit before a vet can diagnose, treat, or prescribe for an animal. That barrier can delay critical care, especially for rescues who don’t have easy access to a vet.

SB 1442 removes this roadblock and brings veterinary care into the 21st century—without compromising safety or quality.

For rescues, SB 1442 would mean:

✅ Faster medical advice for animals in crisis
✅ Reduced costs for exams and follow-ups
✅ Access to care in vet deserts and rural areas
✅ Support for fosters dealing with health concerns
✅ Better management of chronic or behavioral cases

Veterinarians still hold the same legal and ethical responsibilities—SB 1442 simply removes the unnecessary wait time and logistical burden of requiring in-person visits before care can begin.

If you’re a Texas resident, your voice can help pass this bill. Contacting your legislators only takes a few minutes—and it can make a life-saving difference for animals across the state.

Feel free to copy, paste, and personalize:

Subject: Please Support SB 1442 for Telemedicine in Veterinary Care

Dear [Senator/Representative] [Last Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m a Texas resident and passionate advocate for animal welfare. I’m writing to urge you to support Senate Bill 1442, which would allow licensed veterinarians to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) via telemedicine.

As it stands, Texas law prohibits this, creating dangerous delays in care for animals—especially those in the custody of rescue organizations and rural communities with limited access to veterinary services.

SB 1442 would modernize care, reduce suffering, and improve outcomes for countless animals—without compromising safety or oversight. It’s a common-sense bill with wide support from the rescue community, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare advocates across Texas.

Please vote YES on SB 1442 and help ensure timely, accessible care for animals in need.

Thank you for your service and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your City, TX]