DUTCH FETCHES MAJOR WINS FOR PET CARE
Most Americans own a pet, with 200 million pets nationwide and growing. Unfortunately, America’s growth in pet ownership coincides with a massive shortage of veterinarians. In human healthcare, the ratio of healthcare professionals per person is 1 per 30. For pets, the ratio is 1 veterinarian per 2,000 pets. Ninety-four percent (94%) of those who work in the veterinary profession believe that there is a workforce shortage according to a recent survey. Pets are an integral part of our families, and when they’re dealing with a health problem, it can be frustrating to identify top-notch, accessible care. Telemedicine can help address this crisis.
Dutch helps every dog have its day (with a vet)
Dutch is a telemedicine platform that connects pet parents and veterinarians to get advice and prescriptions for common conditions like allergies, fleas, and anxiety.
Dutch helps pet parents get quick, safe, easy, and affordable care when and where they need it. Dutch offers a monthly or annual membership, granting pet owners unlimited access to licensed local veterinarians through video chat and messaging. Depending on a pet’s specific needs, Dutch vets may recommend prescription medication or non-prescription treatment options. Treatments are sent to the pet’s home within days. When pets need in-person exams or treatment, Dutch refers them to local clinics.
Veterinarians like Dutch because they can set their own hours, operate from home, and some even make more money than they would at a traditional clinic. According to Joe, almost 80% of vets are moms, so they appreciate the flexibility.
This fall, Dutch raised an $18 million Series B round to support their growth.
An underdog’s hero story
Dutch founder and CEO Joe Spector always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur. Born in Uzbekistan in the former Soviet Union, his family escaped as refugees and eventually settled in the U.S. where he learned to appreciate and take advantage of everything the land of opportunity had to offer. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to cofound Hims and Hers–direct to consumer telemedicine companies that make it easy, affordable, and comfortable for men and women to get care.
During the pandemic he adopted a puppy. The moment he started to deal with veterinary care he was shocked that the advances in telemedicine that humans have enjoyed in recent years did not extend to animals. Through Dutch, Joe has helped push for greater innovation and openness in pet health.
You can teach an old dog new tricks–Dutch pushes reforms around the nation
Dutch and other advocates are pioneering reforms across the states to open in-home veterinary care to the masses. In 2023, Dutch and a coalition of dozens of nonprofits successfully pushed AB 1399, allowing for the creation of a virtual VCPR for pets in California. Previously, pets in California needed a physical exam for every new condition. This reform means the nearly 20 million pets in California will have access to telemedicine for the first time.
This year, Dutch is supporting reforms in Tennessee, Ohio, and Florida. In 2025, the target will be helping pets in the Lonestar State.
Half of all U.S. pets have never seen a veterinarian. Without a solution like Dutch, many would likely never receive treatment for their conditions. Despite a decade of advancements in human telemedicine, veterinary telemedicine has been far behind, but thanks to the work of Dutch and advocates, we are witnessing a monumental shift to improve pet health and provide veterinarians with modern technology. Trust is proud to support Dutch in their mission to ensure that man’s best friend has access to timely and convenient treatment, starting at home.
Throw Dutch a bone: Get care for your pet, or learn more about working with Dutch as a veterinarian. If you’d like to support reform efforts in Tennessee, Ohio, Florida, or Texas, please contact brooke@trustventures.com.
