Prescriptions
As veterinary professionals, we are bound by the RCVS code of conduct in terms of prescribing guidelines. This has changed recently. We are NOT ALLOWED to dispense antibiotics or medications containing antibiotics without examining your pet. Furthermore, for all prescription-only medications, we have to show that we have examined your pet within a reasonable amount of time and as such, be able to justify that he/she is 'under our care'.
Repeat medications
We don't want to be awkward. We know that sometimes you know what your pet needs as well as we do. However, we are an RCVS accredited practice, and as such we are audited and monitored in terms of how we dispense and supply prescription medications. Our ability to continue to provide our valued service to your pets, depends on our compliance with RCVS and VMD guidelines. If our staff explain to you that your pet is due a medication check, please do not argue or complain. We don't make the rules, but our professional accreditation depends on us upholding them. A general rule for most medications is that your pet will need to be seen every 3 to 4 months. For antibiotics, your pet will always require an examination, and for chemotherapy or controlled drugs such as anti-epileptics you may need to come in more often. Clients who object or waste our time in arguing about these rules will be asked to find another vet, and be disappointed to find that the rules will be no different, if not stricter.