Prescription Policy: Supporting Safe, Quality Pet Care
At Newtown Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to providing safe, responsible, and high-quality healthcare for your pets. We understand that some clients may prefer to purchase their pet’s medications from external pharmacies or online providers, we are happy to provide a written prescription—however, there is a prescription fee involved.
This fee is not just for a piece of paper, it reflects the time, responsibility, and care involved in ensuring your pet’s treatment remains safe, effective, and appropriate.
Why is there a fee for a written script?
It’s a Professional Medical Service
Writing a prescription isn’t as simple as jotting down a name and dose. Our vets are legally and professionally required to ensure that any medication prescribed is safe, appropriate, and effective for your pet’s current health status.
Writing a prescription requires a veterinarian to:
- Current weight and condition
- Review your pet’s medical history
- Ensure the medication and dosage are appropriate
- Assess any potential interactions or contraindications
Just like when you see your own doctor for a prescription, this process involves clinical judgment and carries medical responsibility. The fee reflects the time, expertise, and care involved in making these decisions.
It Helps Cover Time and Resources
When you request a script, a veterinarian takes time away from consulting or surgery to ensure all documentation is completed accurately. We also provide the prescription in a legally compliant format, often requiring additional administrative handling by our nursing team. Charging a fee helps offset the time and resources involved, ensuring our clinic can continue to provide a high level of care and attention to every patient.
Do I need a consultation every time?
No. Once your pet has had an initial prescription consultation, we do not require another full consult for every repeat. However, your pet requires a veterinary review every 6 months with their ongoing medication, to ensure continued safety and effectiveness. A consult is required for:
- First-time prescriptions
- Repeat scripts that have expired
- New medications
- Your pet is unwell or showing new symptoms
- There have been changes in your pet’s behaviour
- Your pet has gained or lost weight
Medication Safety and Supply Chain
We pride ourselves on maintaining high standards in every aspect of veterinary care, including medication safety. While purchasing medications externally is an option, having them dispensed directly through our clinic ensures quality control, correct usage, and immediate support if any issues arise. All medications at our clinic are stored, handled, and dispensed in strict accordance with veterinary guidelines.
When purchasing medications online, it’s important to understand that their integrity and effectiveness cannot always be guaranteed. Improper storage, counterfeit products, or incorrect dosages are all potential risks. For peace of mind and your pet’s safety, we recommend obtaining medications directly through the clinic whenever possible.
If you ever have questions about a prescription, a medication source, or your pet’s treatment plan, we are always here to help.