Avoid Buying Pet Medication Online

With the economic hardships crunching your wallet, you may be tempted to cut corners to save money. However, buying pet medications online may save you a little up front, but in the end, could cost you hundreds in veterinary bills!

1. Your vet knows your pets.

Unless you visit new veterinary offices frequently, your veterinarian knows the history of your pet(s). It is important to account for previous medical history before prescribing any pet medications. You wouldn't want a doctor to prescribe you medication without asking you questions about your medical history, would you?

2. Online pet pharmacies may sell expired products.

All medications, even those for animals, must be stored in cool, dry places and can expire after certain time periods. Veterinary offices regularly check their stock of pet medications to ensure none are expired. However, many online pet pharmacies may sell products that are expired or have been stored in hot, humid warehouses. This can make the medications less effective or even not effective at all. No government agency regulates these online pharmacies, either.

3. Some medications should not be administered without certain medical tests.

For example, heartworm medication given to a dog or cat who has already contracted heartworm disease can be fatal. All pets should have a negative heartworm test at a veterinary office prior to beginning heartworm prevention.

4. Medications are often administered according to weight.

It can be difficult to weigh your pet at home, and veterinary clinics have special scales to weigh your pet, plus trained staff. If you go by a previous weight, you may be off and either overdose your pet, or not give it enough medication to be effective.

5. Some medications require follow up monitoring.

Occasionally, pets can have adverse reactions to medications, so it is important that your veterinarian be able to monitor him while taking the medication.