Should I Buy Pet Meds Online or at the Vet?

Like people, pets need prescription medications. These range from from heartworm preventive medication to antibiotics and pain killers. Pet meds can be purchased at a veterinarian's office, at some pet supply stores and online. Deciding where to purchase these medications can be difficult because prices and quality can vary. For the safety of your pet, take time to do a little research before buying pet meds.

Determine what types of medication your pet needs. If your veterinarian has recommended a specific medication, listen to his advice. If you are self-medicating an animal, do some research. Talk with a veterinarian. Read books on the topic. Consult others who have had to do the same thing as you.

Purchase pet meds where you can ask questions before and after the sale. If you decide to purchase online, make sure there is a customer service phone number for inquiries. Call with any questions before the purchase. If you choose to buy pet meds at a vet clinic, keep the office phone number handy for any questions should an allergic reaction arise.

Research the product you want to buy and learn about the manufacturer. Determine who makes the pet medication, and when making your purchase, verify the manufacturer. Many knock off brands exist that may not contain the right types or correct dosage of medication. These can be harmful to your pet.

Look for a return policy or guarantee. Buy the pets meds from a location that allows refunds if your pet won't take or is allergic to the medication. How easy or difficult is it to make a return? If the purchase is made online, will the vendor pay for return postage?
When purchasing products sight unseen, be sure to have a way to contact the seller. You may unexpectedly receive an empty package, the wrong pet medications or even fall victim to a scam and not receive anything at all.

Buy pet medications for livestock from a farm supply store. Routine application of antibiotics, wormers and other common livestock medications can be purchased in bulk at farm supply stores. This is often the most cost effective method of purchasing pet meds for a large number of animals.

Use the same method for future purchases. If you are receiving consistently satisfactory results, stick with that method of buying pet meds. You don't want to experiment with a new service just when your pet needs the medication the most.