Pet Medications – Why That Discount Isn’t Really a Discount

(and why you should buy direct from your veterinarian!)

When you ask pet owners why they buy their pets’ medications from online and other retailers, the top two answers are likely to be convenience and savings. Unfortunately, these consumers are missing out on quality, manufacturer guarantees, customer service in case of a problem, and, in some cases, savings that will make their medication less expensive!

Here are the top five reasons to buy directly from your veterinarian versus a discount retailer.

1. Safety and Guarantees  Most, if not all, manufacturers only guarantee products purchased through your veterinarian’s office. It doesn’t happen a lot, but it happens – your beloved pet reacts badly to a medication or the product fails to work as advertised. Your veterinarian’s office will take care of your pet and try to reverse the problem. Then, they (we) will go to work on your behalf so that the manufacturer honors their guarantee.
2. Product Quality and Integrity  Our Pikes Peak Vet staff is trained to make sure that the products we order are shipped, received and stored under appropriate conditions, such as proper temperatures. We use the products we carry on our own pets, so you can rest assured that we aren’t selling you something we wouldn’t trust with our own furbabies. Additionally, we know your pet and, based on breed or bloodwork, what might be harmful to them. We adapt medications to take into account the specifics of your pet.
3. Accurate Dosing  Buying directly from the manufacturer gives us confidence that we are getting the products and dosing promised in each tablet, capsule, vial, etc. When your pet needs a medication, we have one trained team member fill the prescription and another double-check it to make sure that the proper dose and amount are ready to go. In other words, there’s little chance your pet will receive an incorrect medication or dosage.
4. Rebates and Coupons  Our manufacturers offer exclusive rebates and coupons that often make the price equal to or more competitive than the discount retailers. We share these savings with you when you purchase. Often, a less expensive product directly relates to quality, and less expensive medications may be a lesser version of the product, such as Heartgard vs Heartgard Plus. You think you’re getting one thing and it turns out to be just a little different.  
5. We Have a Pikes Peak Vet Online Store! For both convenience and price, it’s often just as easy and inexpensive to order directly from us. We can automate shipments of your pet’s regular medications and special foods to arrive at the right time. When you have questions or concerns, our team will be there to take care of you and walk you through everything you want to know.

The point is, your veterinarian (we) wants you and your pets to be healthy and happy! We see you and your pet regularly and you are a key part of our PPVC family. Online sources have less connection to you and no ability to interface with the manufacturer if your pet experiences any unfortunate situation. Let us handle the prescriptions for you so you don’t have to run around to one more counter! We think you’ll find it’s worth it.