The Truth About Internet Pharmacies

 

  

With the emergence of Internet pharmacies, many pet owners are trying to find the best price for their pet’s medications.  We understand and appreciate the rising cost of health care and continue to look for ways to make health care and medications affordable.

When using Internet pharmacies, pet owners should be aware of the associated risks. Like you, we want to ensure the highest quality of care for your pet.

The following are some frequently asked questions about Internet pharmacies provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association:

Internet pharmacies sound like a good deal.  Why are some people against buying drugs from them?

A number of problems have been reported, such as sales of pet medications without valid prescriptions, counterfeit, expired, and recalled products. These drugs could pose a health threat to pets. 

I found an Internet pharmacy that says I don't need a prescription.  Do I?

It is illegal for a pharmacy to send prescription drugs for animals without a valid prescription obtained from your veterinarian.

Why can't I get a prescription from just any veterinarian?

For the same reason you can't walk into any doctor's office and ask for a prescription for yourself.  It's illegal for a veterinarian to authorize a prescription without a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship. 

Is it safe to purchase my medications online?

Any prescription medication purchased from our hospital has been inspected and approved by the FDA and manufactured and packaged according to U.S. government regulations. Online pharmacies sometimes fill prescriptions with foreign product. If approved by the FDA, it should say “Caution: Federal Law requires this drug to be used by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian”.  Do not use products that do not have this warning or if the label has been removed.

What is my guarantee?

Pharmaceutical manufacturers will only honor product guarantees when the medications are prescribed by and purchased from the pet’s veterinarian. This means that if your pet contracts fleas, a tick-born disease, heartworm disease, or even internal parasites, you will often qualify to be reimbursed for the Veterinary costs associated with treatment.

And remember, purchasing product from your local veterinarian supports the local economy too. Compared to chain stores, locally owned businesses recycle a much larger share of their revenue back into the local economy, enriching the whole community!