Prescription Policy
Prescription-only veterinary medicines (POM-V) can only be supplied against a valid prescription issued by a UK-registered veterinary surgeon.
Prescription checks
All prescriptions are carefully reviewed to ensure they meet legal and safety requirements before medicines are supplied.
To help avoid delays, please ensure the prescription you upload matches the product being ordered, including formulation, strength, and quantity. The shipping name and address used at checkout must match the details on the prescription.
You may order the same or different prescription medicines for more than one pet. A separate prescription is required for each animal, and each pet’s name must be listed in the pet’s name field on the product order page.
If there is a mismatch between the prescription and the product selected, we may need to contact you or the prescribing veterinary surgeon for clarification before the order can be approved.
Orders containing prescription medicines will remain on hold until all prescription checks have been completed and approved.
Prescriptions must be dated within the last six months and are valid only for the number of repeats specified by the prescribing veterinary surgeon (typically up to three). Once this limit is reached, a new prescription must be provided.
Payment for prescription medicines
If your order includes prescription medicines, payment is authorised at checkout but will not be taken until prescription checks have been completed and the medication is ready for dispatch.
How your order works
After placing your order, you can upload your prescription securely during checkout, email it to prescriptions@vetalia.co.uk, or submit it using our online form here.
Our veterinary team reviews each prescription to ensure it meets legal and clinical requirements. Once approved, your order is prepared and dispatched in line with our delivery policy.
The veterinary prescribing cascade
In some cases, there may not be a veterinary-licensed medicine available for your pet’s specific condition or needs. In these situations, your veterinary surgeon may prescribe a medicine under the veterinary prescribing cascade.
The cascade allows vets to prescribe certain human or alternative veterinary medicines when this is in the best interests of the animal. These medicines are commonly used in veterinary practice and are prescribed based on clinical judgement and current evidence.
Fraudulent or altered prescriptions
It is a criminal offence to alter, falsify, or misuse a veterinary prescription. This includes changing quantities, strengths, dates, animal details, or prescriber information.
Where a prescription appears to be altered, forged, or otherwise invalid, we are legally required to refuse supply and may contact the issuing veterinary practice or relevant authorities.
As part of our clinical governance and regulatory obligations, Vetalia also conducts routine and random spot checks on prescriptions and dispensing records. These may include verification with the issuing veterinary practice where appropriate.
These measures are in place to protect animal welfare, ensure medicines are supplied safely, and comply fully with UK veterinary medicines regulations.