Being a pet parent is one of the most rewarding things. However, the most crucial part of pet care is ensuring they are healthy. So, pet parents may need to get prescriptions and supplements for their furry friends. Many online platforms today sell pet healthcare supplies, making it easy to refill prescriptions. However, buyers must exercise caution to get authentic and good-quality products online. So here are a few tips for buying pet medication online:

1. Verify authenticity
When buying medications for pets online, one should check if the pharmacy is legitimate. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) offers a pharmacy-verified website program to ensure that such online platforms are licensed and legitimate. Participating websites accept only valid prescriptions and comply with applicable animal healthcare laws. Several well-known online pet retailers are part of this program and display the NABP verification on their websites.

2. Check ordering and return policies
The process of ordering prescriptions and nonprescription medications differ from each other. The retailer contacts the veterinarian directly to verify the prescription, which usually takes at least a day or two. One should note that prescription medications cannot be returned, though retailers might make certain exceptions. For example, some online retailers might issue an exchange or refund for incorrect orders, while others offer a money-back guarantee that protects against issues like ordering the wrong size or quantity.

3. Review the shipping policy
Shipping policies can vary based on factors like whether the order needs refrigeration or if it is prescription or nonprescription medication. For instance, those that do not require refrigeration are shipped overnight to ensure quick arrival. So, if a pet requires immediate healthcare attention, say, for managing the sudden onset of vomiting, it is better to purchase the medication directly from the physical pharmacy or opt for one-day delivery options online.

4. Inspect the product
Even if the ordering process is smooth, one should always thoroughly check the item as soon as it is delivered. They should check for signs that the medication is damaged, tampered with, or expired. If yes, they should contact the online pharmacy to issue a return and refund or exchange

5. Check the location of the pharmacy
Several websites may offer prescriptions for a lower price. However, it is important to check from where the medication is being shipped. Those outside the country might not abide by the laws in place for pets. So, an online pharmacy located in the country would typically abide by the laws and national standards of safety and quality. Additionally, one should ensure the online pharmacy is licensed by the relevant state board, offers a licensed pharmacist onboard to answer any questions, and has a street address in the country.

6. Consult a veterinarian
Not all pet medications need to be prescribed by a vet. However, these products might contain ingredients that may trigger allergies in some animals. So, one must always consult a veterinarian to determine if the medication is safe for their pet. One should also ensure they set up regular healthcare appointments for their pet every few months. Doing so will ensure one is aware of potential health problems and can get them treated to prevent further complications.