Should You Use an Online Pet Med Website?

There are several websites online that offer pet meds and other pet supplies at a big discount over traditional pet supply stores.  In fact, depending on how much you buy, you could save a lot of money over time.  These sites can be a great value if you know what to look for and what to look out for.  Below, you will find a few things you should keep in mind when you shop at an online pet med website. 

First of all, you need to make sure that you get the right medication for your pet.  Since you won’t have a salesperson close by to get help, you have to be extra careful.  Most medications are different for the breed and size of your pet.  If you have a prescription from your vet, this shouldn’t be a problem.  However, if you’re ordering treatments like heartworm prevention, take the time to find the right one for you pet.  It’s much more difficult to return products online than it is at a local store.

The next thing you need to watch out for is pricing.  While there are many pet supply stores offer big discounts, not all of them are cheaper, and many sites vary drastically in prices for the same products.  So, make sure that you compare products not just between your local store and an online store, but also between different online stores.  This will make sure that you get the best price possible.  Also keep an eye out for special coupons and other deals.

Another point to consider when ordering pet supplies online is the cost of shipping.  Many websites will offer free shipping, but there are usually restrictions placed on this.  For instance, you may have a minimum order before you qualify for the shipping.  If you don’t qualify for free shipping, you need to pay close attention to how much you’re being charged.  Sometimes these costs can add up to more than you would pay in a local pet supply store.  This is another reason you should compare costs from one site to another.

Finally, you should try to find a site that offers good customer support.  This is important because if you have any questions or you need help, you want someone to help you that is knowledgeable and friendly.  You can read reviews of different pet supply websites to read what past customers have said about their customer service experience with a particular site.  Of course, just because you have one bad experience, it doesn’t mean that is what the service is generally like, and vice versa. 

Online pet med websites really can be a great way to save money on pet meds and other pet supplies.  However, the do require you to know what you want to buy, since you won’t have a salesperson nearby to ask.  You can always do research online to read reviews of products from other customers before you buy.  This will help you decide which brands to buy if you don’t already know.  Your vet could probably help you with this information as well.