This guide explains exactly how to buy pet medication online safely, what you need from your vet, and how to choose a trustworthy online pharmacy.

Key Takeaways

  • Prescription pet medicines require a valid vet prescription, and your pet must have had a consultation with a vet first.

  • You do not need a veterinary prescription to purchase over the counter medications, like many flea and worming treatments.

  • Only use reputable online pharmacies that are found on the VMD Register of Online Retailers.

  • The ordering process for prescription medications is simple: get a prescription, choose your medication online, submit the prescription and, subject to approval, your medication will be dispensed.

  • Buying online is safe and often more convenient or cost-effective, but vet involvement is essential to ensure the correct treatment and dosage.

Need to order prescription pet medication? You can browse and purchase eligible treatments on our dedicated page for pet drugs online.

Ordering medication for your pet through an online pharmacy can be a convenient and cost-effective way to manage their health, especially for long-term conditions that require repeat prescriptions. However, most veterinary medicines are tightly regulated, and there are important steps you need to follow to ensure your pet receives the right treatment safely.

Can I Buy Pet Medication Without a Vet Prescription?

This depends on the type of medication you are ordering:

VioVet vet, Dr Nicholas Garside BVetMed MRCVS, states: "These requirements are in place to protect your pet’s health and ensure medicines, that could be dangerous if not used correctly, are used safely, appropriately, and at the required dosage".

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How to Buy Pet Prescription Medication Online

When it comes to prescription-only items, there are important legal and safety steps you need to follow to ensure your pet receives the correct treatment.

Step 1: Veterinary consultation

Before you can buy prescription medication online, your pet must have a consultation with a vet..

The vet will:

  • Diagnose your pet’s condition

  • Decide whether medication is required

  • Determine the correct drug and dosage

It is a legal requirement in the UK that prescriptions are issued by a qualified veterinary surgeon following a clinical assessment. This can be done remotely, such as via video consult, for some long term treatments. It is up to the prescribing vet’s discretion as to whether your pet’s condition requires examination in person or can be safely managed remotely.

If your pet needs ongoing treatment, ask your vet about a repeat prescription.

Step 2: Request a written prescription

Once your vet has prescribed medication, you can request a written prescription.

This document will include (amongst other information):

  • The name of the medicine

  • Dosage instructions

  • Quantity allowed

  • Validity period up to 6 months, dependant on the condition and medication prescribed)

Vets may charge a prescription fee, and pricing varies between practices.

Step 3: Choose a reputable online pet pharmacy

Not all online sellers are safe or legal. When choosing where to buy, look for clear signs that the pharmacy is legitimate.

A trustworthy online pharmacy must legally be registered with and listed on the VMD Register of Online Retailers. It is important to only use online companies found on this database. Any pharmacies not found on here may not be following the UK minimum safety requirements for storing and dispensing veterinary medications.

cat inside on a chair

Step 4: Place your order online

Once you have your prescription and choose an online pharmacy, you can place your order. For example, VioVet follows a simple process:

  1. Search for the prescribed medication on the website

  2. Select up to the amount permitted on your prescription

  3. Add to basket and proceed to checkout

  4. Upload or submit your prescription for vet approval

    1. Prompted to upload during the checkout process

    2. Upload at the ‘My Prescriptions’ section of your VioVet account

    3. If you’re struggling with either of the above or have already placed an order without creating an account, send a copy of the prescription to [email protected] with your order number in the subject line

Note: Some written prescriptions must be posted to the veterinary pharmacy before they can be used for dispensing. This is either due to the fact that they contain Controlled Drugs (a legal requirement) or your prescribing vet requests on your prescription that the hard copy must be obtained first.

For repeat prescriptions

For pets and horses with ongoing medical needs, your vet may issue a repeat prescription. This allows you to order the total quantity prescribed a number of specified times from the same written prescription, before needing to request a new one from your vet.

Step 5: Prescription Approval & Verification

Before your order can be dispatched, the online pharmacy must verify and approve your prescription. This is an important safety and legal step designed to ensure your pet receives the correct medication exactly as prescribed by your vet.

This verification process helps ensure:

  • Your pet receives the correct treatment safely

  • Prescription medicines are supplied legally and responsibly

  • Errors or unsuitable medication requests are identified before dispatch

Step 6: Receive and check your medication

Once approved, your medication will be dispensed and delivered to your home.

When it arrives, you should:

  • Check the packaging is intact

  • Confirm the medicine matches your prescription

  • Review dosage instructions carefully

If anything seems incorrect or unclear, contact the pharmacy or your vet before administering the medication.

Is it Safe to Buy Pet Medication Online?

Yes - buying pet medication online is safe when you use a licensed and reputable pharmacy and follow the correct prescription process. Avoid any website that offers prescription medicines without asking for a prescription, as this is illegal and potentially dangerous.

Ordering online can also offer benefits such as:

  • Fast, convenient home delivery - Order medication online at a time that suits you, with delivery arranged straight to your door once your prescription has been approved.

  • Save on prescription costs - Online ordering can often reduce the overall cost of prescription treatments compared with purchasing directly through a vet practice, with savings of up to 50–60% in many cases according to the CMA.

  • Vet-approved & fully regulated - Every order is reviewed by qualified veterinary professionals and supplied in accordance with UK veterinary medicines regulations.

  • Simple repeat ordering - If your pet needs ongoing treatment, repeat prescriptions can make it easier to continue supplies without starting the process from scratch each time (within the prescription’s validity).

  • Access to a wide range - Online pharmacies typically stock a broad selection of prescription treatments, including options and pack sizes that may not always be available locally.

Final Thoughts

Ordering pet medication online can be a convenient option for managing your pet’s ongoing health needs, provided the correct process is followed. When these steps are followed, it can be a safe and straightforward way to access the treatment your pet needs.

You can order your pet’s prescription medication here at VioVet: Pet Prescription Medication.

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Written by: VioVet