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The rising cost of pet medication has left pet owners searching for ways to save money while still being able to provide adequate care for their pet. For many, this has led to comparing the different pet pharmacies available online. While price is usually the first thing consumers look for, there are some other factors to consider when choosing your pet pharmacy. Here are some questions to ask before making your first purchase.

Does your pharmacy have licensed pet pharmacists on staff?
This may seem like an obvious question, but the truth is that some online pet suppliers are really just third-party distributors. They make their money by reselling products that they have purchased from other stores. Without a staff pharmacist they will never be able to sell you a full line of pet meds. Many of today's pet medications require a prescription, so make sure your online source has the necessary staff to meet your needs.

Will they contact your veterinarian for prescription information?
Paperwork can be a hassle, especially when you have to send it to a pharmacy that is hundreds of miles away. Faxes and digital delivery makes things easier, but not everyone has access to the equipment needed to make use these formats. A good online pet pharmacy will contact your veterinarian directly, making it simple and convenient for you.

What are their contact hours?
Even though online pet pharmacies offer 24 hour access through their website, you should take note of their call hours. You never know when you or your veterinarian will need to speak with a pharmacist directly. Keep in mind that the call hours will be affected by time zone differences between your two locations. Weekends hours are also important, and this is where many pet pharmacies fail to deliver. The bottom line is to make sure that you have sufficient access to a licensed pharmacist. You never want to feel 'locked out' from your pet's meds.

What are the shipping costs?
Many online retailers lure consumers in by advertising low prices on items only to hit them with high shipping costs at checkout. This can also be the case with pet meds, so it is wise to research the shipping costs in advance. The larger pet pharmacies regularly offer shipping discounts, so be sure to look for promotional offers and coupon codes like the ones featured at http://1800petmedscoupon.com The key is to compare prices between pharmacies with the shipping cost included. This will let you know who is offering the best value.

Online pet pharmacies are a great resource for saving money on expensive pet medications. Many of the larger outlets have expanded enough to provide superior service and quick turnaround for those who don't need a physical storefront to do business. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can save a substantial amount of money with online pet pharmacies, especially if you have multiple pets or an animal with a long-term illness.