American pet owners spent $22.45 billion on pet supplies, over-the-counter pet medicines and vet care in 2009, according to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA 2010). The annual cost of caring for a dog or cat in the U.S. ranges between $700 and $875.(ASPCA 2010).
Pet Preventatives are Necessary Expense
With monthly heartworm medicine and flea-and-tick preventatives costing as much as $10 to $12 per dose, pet medicines undoubtedly account for a significant portion of American pet care expenses. There is also no denying that some pet medications are an important part of responsible pet ownership.
Heartworm medicines and flea and tick treatments protect pets from dangerous parasites. Using these medications as directed can keep pets healthy. Regular use also prevents the need for expensive and risky treatment of parasitic infections and diseases. So, many pet owners have turned to the Internet in search of more affordable preventative drugs, as well as prescription anti-inflammatory drugs for their pets.
Pet Medicines Cheaper Online
An online pet pharmacy or pet supply store may indeed be the least expensive place to purchase pet medicines. With so much demand from pet owners seeking affordable pet medicines, there are many companies competing for business. But shoppers should do their research before purchasing pet medicines online – not only to find the best price, but also to make sure companies' claims are legitimate.
Online Pet Meds – Safety Concerns
The FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), which regulates the manufacture and distribution of animal drugs, warns against purchasing from online pet pharmacies that offer prescription drugs such as NSAIDs and heartworm medicines without a prescription. Such drugs may be unapproved, counterfeit or expired, and can pose a health risk to beloved pets.
The CVM suggests these ways to help consumers find safe medication for pets online:
- Look for the VIPPS (Verified Internet Practices Pharmacy Sites) accredited pharmacy seal on the pet pharmacy's web site
- Buy online from a state licensed Internet pharmacy service recommended by a veterinarian
Online Pet Pharmacy Offerings
Many people may not realize that less expensive options for some pet medications exist. Online suppliers are more likely to offer the generic versions of expensive monthly treatments such as heartworm medicine. Pet owners need only fax or mail a valid prescription to a reputable, licensed pet pharmacy to purchase these generics or discounted name brand pet medications. Medications available from online pharmacies include:
- Prescription Heartgard and Heartgard Plus
- Other heartworm medicines, such as Tri-Heart Plus
- Prescription NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Nonprescription flea and tick preventatives, such as Frontline and Frontline Plus
Order Pet Meds Online in Bulk
Regardless of where pet owners purchase their pets' medicines, buying the largest package available will almost always save them money. These medicines can cost $12 or more for a single dose, and cost the most when purchased in packages contain only a few doses.
Packages containing a yearly supply (usually 12 doses) cost less per unit. By paying for more doses at once, pet owners can save money on both the medicine and the shipping costs. Many online sellers of pet medicines also offer free shipping on purchases above a certain amount.
The Best Deal on Pet Medications
Animal companions bring their humans so much joy that most pet owners would spend almost any amount to keep them healthy and happy. For some pet owners though, saving money on necessities such as pet medications is a necessity. The best deal on pet medication is one that is both affordable and regulated for safety.
With a proper prescription from a veterinarian and pet medicines from licensed and accredited pharmacies, pet owners can take advantage of online deals and maintain their pets' health for less. Savvy online shoppers may even find they have more money for treats and toys to spoil their furry friends.
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Sources
APPA. "Pet Industry Grows More Than 5% in 2009 And Anticipates Nearly 5% Growth Again This Year" American Pet Products Association press release, Feb. 8, 2010. www.media.americanpetproducts.org/press.php
ASPCA. "Pet Statistics" American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals web site, 2010. www.aspca.org/about-us/faq/pet-statistics.html
FDA. "Purchasing Pet Drugs Online: Buyer Beware" U.S. Food and Drug Administration web site, Mar. 3, 2010. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm048164.htm#RedFlags
Alison Fletcher - Alison Fletcher is a freelance writer, editor and proofreader. She has nearly a decade of experience in the craft and picture framing ...
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