Q: How does the prescription system work?
It's quite simple really, and very similar to ourselves when we aren't well. When your pet requires long or short term medication(s), you can request a prescription (also called an authorisation) from your veterinarian to have the medication(s) dispensed by our pharmacy. Once you know the details of the medication(s), you can place your order with us and send the original prescription. Alternatively, you can send us the prescription first along with a note to contact you to assist you with the order process. Either way we do have to receive the original prescription (and payment) before we can post the medication to you. It's best to arrange the prescription and delivery ahead of when your current batch of medication(s) runs out, to ensure continuation of the course.
Q: Any further information on prescriptions?
Yes - Here's a link to our information page and sample prescription
Q: My pet requires medication, how do we get a prescription?
On request, your veterinarian will be happy to provide you with a prescription for whichever medication(s) they are prescribing and are obliged to do so in accordance with VCNZ codes of conduct. Your veterinarian is entitled to charge a small fee for this service.
Q: How long will it take to get my pet's medication?
Once we have received the original signed and 'in-date' prescription and payment, we will aim to post the medication(s) within 24hrs once the validation checks are done. We aim to keep most medications in stock, but we will let you know an estimated delivery date if there is a delay for any reason, so that you may choose to buy the medication from your veterinarian.
Q: I need the medications urgently, will a scanned emailed prescription do?
In order to fill a prescription legally, we do need the original posted to us at:
Willowbark Veterinary Pharmacy
PO Box 20098
Summerhill,
Palmerston North 4448
If you have an urgent order, we can fill a prescription without the original but please email us for information about this. If we do fill a prescription without the original, you will need to send it within 7 days.
Q: How long is a prescription valid?
A prescription is valid for up to 6 months after the date on the prescription but this may vary. Generally, your veterinarian will prescribe a maximum of 6 months supply, and willl determine if and how many repeats will be required.
Q: Can I get repeat prescriptions?
Yes you may get repeats on your prescription but this will be determined by your veterinarian and should be indicated on the prescription.
Q: Are these the same medications that my veterinarian would dispense?
Yes, we have to supply you with the same medication as prescribed by your veterinarian. There are very strict guidelines regarding this from the veterinarian governing. We can supply something similar (e.g. the same drug but with a different trade name) but only with the consent of your veterinarian.
Q: What if I'm unsure of what to order?
We are here to help you with any queries in order to make the process as straightforward as possible (see contact information). If needed, you can send us your prescription and we can assist the ordering process via email or over the phone.
Q: Is there a shipping charge?
Most orders over $25 will be shipped for free. There will be a shipping charge applied to heavy/bulky items (e.g. food) which will be determined by the size and weight of your order as well as the destination. See our shipping and returns section.
Q: What if I don't know the weight of my cat/dog?
If you're unsure, either use your scales at home or call your veterinary clinic - they will usually have a recent weight for your pet.
Q: Can I combine prescription medications with other pet products to save on postage?
Yes, absolutely. We can either send prescription and non-prescription items together or separately (depending on specific transport requirements of medicines).
Q: What if an item is out of stock?
If only part of your order is available for immediate postage, we will contact you to give you an estimated delivery date and discuss the postage options.
Q: Is it safe to shop online?
Yes it is. In order to store your contact information, we have an SSL certificate through our website host Bigcommerce. We do not take or keep any payment details as payment can only be made by direct bank transfer and credit card via PayPal. We do not and will not share any of your details with any 3rd party companies.