by Gigi McWhirter
Whether your pet is on a prescription medication or supplement, the cost can be expensive. This is especially true for animals with chronic conditions. Throw in the cost of the medication(s) on top of the required vet checks and lab work, it can easily put a dent into the wallet.
For instance, an animal being treated with a medication like phenobarbital, which is classified as a barbiturate, must have an exam by a licensed veterinarian every six months, and once the phenobarbital levels are reached must have annual blood work to monitor the maintenance levels in the animal’s system.
The cost of several commonly prescribed prescriptions has almost doubled in the past few months. Most vet’s offices have small in-office pharmacies and don’t have the purchasing power to help keep the costs down.
With a little research, you can find less expensive and legitimate sources for your animal’s medicine, supplement, and food needs.
For comparing prices, consider a site like goodrx.com. This website will help you find the best deals on medications in your area. However, it does not always come up with answers for prescriptions for veterinary use only.
Online animal medicine sources include:
- Chewy.com
- 1800PetMeds
- Allivet Pharmacy
- California Pet Pharmacy
- PetCareRx
Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, Fry’s, Safeway, Walgreens, and CVS have entered the arena and carry some pet meds.
If your pet requires medications that need to be compounded, AVRIO Pharmacy, Diamondback Drugs, and Roadrunner Pharmacy are worth checking into.
It is easy to be burned by sellers offering substandard products — especially with the increase in counterfeit and foreign medications. A website offering prescription medications without confirming the dose and duration as written by a doctor, probably is not a reliable source.
A reputable pharmacy will require a valid, authorized prescription. Once you have requested your medication, the pharmacy will contact your veterinarian for prescription authorization. After the prescription has been approved, the pharmacy will bill and ship directly to your doorstep.
Online pharmacies are required to keep a licensed pharmacist on staff. They are available to address any concerns.
Your veterinarian will probably require that your pet have a current exam and or lab work before medications can be filled. Please have the discussion with your veterinarian, not Dr. Google, at the time the prescription is written.
Happy Tails to you!
