How to Get a Pet Prescription

When your pet is ill or has a chronic condition requiring medication, the question may arise about the best place to purchase the medication. Many veterinarians are adamant that the only way to make sure your pet is treated properly is to be under the direct care of a vet and use the medications purchased directly from the vet.

Instructions

1. See your veterinarian when your pet shows signs of illness or injury that requires prescription medication. Since pets can have adverse reactions to medication, it is vital that a vet is available to intervene if needed.

2. Ask your veterinarian for the most cost-effective medication for your pets. For example, in a two-dog household, it can be less costly to get heartworm preventive by buying a larger size and dividing it in half for each dog.

3. Talk to your vet about generic prescriptions for your pet. If your vet has limited supplies, check with the local pharmacy for generic options.

4. Compare prices for maintenance prescriptions from your vet and reputable online pharmacies. Sometimes the cost difference is significant.

5. Follow the same safety guidelines to get prescriptions for your pet as you do for yourself. Purchasing prescriptions online carries the risk of getting medications that are produced in less-than-desirable conditions and may not be sterile. Research the company to learn where the medications are prepared and whether a pharmacist is in charge to verify the correct dosage.

6. Get advice from your veterinarian about using natural pet remedies in place of prescription drugs. Many vets offer alternative medications for pets.

7. Call your vet at least a couple of days in advance if you need a refill on your pet's prescription, and make sure she has time to get the medicine if her supply is low. This is especially important if you live in a rural area where medication is shipped in once or twice a week.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find less expensive pet prescriptions, ask your vet whether he can match the prices.

• Find ways to give your pet the medication he needs if you have a pet that is determined to keep a closed lip. Your vet should be able to show you some tricky ways to get cooperation.

• Avoid online pet pharmacies that do not require a prescription signed by a veterinarian. If your pet is ill, a vet should make the diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment.