Today, it seems nearly everything is available online. That can make it tempting to fill your pet’s prescriptions through a third-party pharmacy rather than through your veterinarian. While online veterinary pharmacies may seem convenient, there are key reasons why buying directly from your veterinary clinic is safer, more reliable, and better for your pet’s health.
Veterinarians work directly with trusted manufacturers to source medications. When you buy through your veterinary clinic, you’re assured that the medications are legitimate, stored under proper conditions, and come with a manufacturer guarantee. Manufacturers do not offer this same guarantee for products sold by third-party or online pharmacies, as they can’t ensure that these products have been sourced, stored, or handled properly.
In fact, just a year ago, the FDA issued warning letters to nine companies like Chewy, California Veterinary Supply, and others for selling unapproved antimicrobial animal drugs.
The quality assurance you get from purchasing through your veterinarian is critical — it’s your assurance that the medication is safe, effective, and hasn’t been compromised by mishandling.
Medications for pets — just like those for humans — often require specific storage conditions. Some require refrigeration or protection from light, while others are stable only within a particular temperature range. Veterinary clinics follow strict protocols to maintain these conditions, ensuring that medications are effective when they reach your pet. Online pharmacies, on the other hand, can vary widely in their temperature control measures, especially when products are stored or shipped from different facilities. Medications that have been exposed to excessive heat or cold during transport may lose effectiveness or, worse, become unsafe.
Unfortunately, the veterinary pharmaceutical industry has seen a rise in the black market and counterfeit products. Medications sold through unauthorized channels can be difficult to distinguish from legitimate ones, but these unregulated products are often ineffective or even harmful. Counterfeit drugs may contain different dosages than labeled or substitute ingredients that may harm your pet.
Veterinary clinics work directly with authorized distributors to avoid these risks, but online pharmacies have been known to unknowingly (or knowingly) mix black market products into their offerings, creating a significant risk for pet owners.
Your veterinarian has in-depth knowledge of your pet’s medical history, current medications, and individual needs. By working with your clinic, you gain access to guidance on correct dosages, potential side effects, and any necessary adjustments. This type of personalized service isn’t available with online pharmacies, and small dosage differences can significantly impact a pet’s health. With direct communication, your veterinarian can provide real-time advice on administering the medication and monitoring for side effects.
Purchasing medications directly from your veterinarian also supports your clinic’s ability to provide high-quality care. When you purchase from online pharmacies, you’re sending revenue out of the local veterinary practice that cares for your pet and supports your community. Supporting your clinic allows them to maintain equipment, provide training, and ultimately offer better care for your pet and other animals in need.
When it comes to your pet’s health, a trusted relationship with your veterinary team is invaluable. Choosing to get your pet’s medication directly from the veterinary clinic ensures that you receive the highest quality product, safeguarded through controlled handling and storage, and backed by manufacturer guarantees. Plus, you get the added benefit of personalized advice and a direct line of support from those who know your pet best. It’s a choice that not only protects your pet but also strengthens the care network you rely on, ensuring that your furry family member is always in good hands.
