Independent veterinary care
Medication guidance you can discuss with your vet
Ironstone's current website explains that the practice has an onsite veterinary pharmacy and can dispense prescribed medicines following an assessment. The practice also offers written prescriptions so clients can obtain suitable medication elsewhere. Ask the veterinary team about prescription requirements, safe use, availability and the current fee before ordering.
Care and treatment decisions are always based on an individual assessment. Contact the clinic to discuss your pet and confirm appointment availability.
Our on-site pharmacy
We keep the medicines we commonly prescribe on site, so if your vet prescribes medication during your visit, you can usually take it home the same day and your pet can start treatment straight away. Our medicines are sourced from reputable UK suppliers.
Prescription-only medicines can only be supplied after your pet has been assessed by a vet. If your pet is on long-term medication, your vet will need to re-check them from time to time before prescribing more, to make sure the medicine and dose are still right.
Written prescriptions
You do not have to buy your pet's medication from us. If you would prefer to buy it from another pharmacy or a registered online retailer, we can provide a written prescription. There is a fee for this service, shown in the costs section below.
If you buy online, check the retailer is listed on the Veterinary Medicines Directorate's register of online retailers. Some medicines, such as controlled drugs, have stricter rules about how much can be prescribed at once.
Repeat prescriptions
Many pets take regular medication for long-term conditions, such as skin and ear problems, arthritis or heart conditions, or need a course of medication after pet surgery. Please give us notice when you need a repeat prescription so we can check your pet's records and have the medication ready.
If your pet's condition changes while on medication, or you notice side effects, contact us rather than stopping or changing the dose yourself.
Giving medicines safely
Always follow the dose and instructions on the label, finish the course unless your vet tells you otherwise, and keep medicines out of reach of children and pets. If you find it hard to give tablets, ask us; the team can suggest ways to make it easier, and some medicines come in other forms.
Never give your pet human medicines unless a vet has told you to. Many share names with pet medicines but the dose and formulation are different, and some are dangerous to animals. If your pet has eaten medication by accident, call us straight away or see our emergency information. Flea, tick and worm treatment can be planned through a pet wellness plan.
Storing and disposing of medicines
Store medicines as the label says; some need to be kept in the fridge, and all should be kept in their original packaging so you have the dosing instructions to hand. Do not share one pet's medicine with another, even if they seem to have the same problem, because doses depend on the animal's weight and health. If you have leftover medicines once a course is finished, or your pet's treatment has changed, ask us how to dispose of them safely rather than putting them in the bin or down the drain. If you are unsure about anything on a label, call us before giving the dose.
Common questions
Do I have to buy my pet's medication from you?
No. You are free to buy it elsewhere with a written prescription from us. A prescription fee applies.
Can I buy pet medicine without a prescription?
Some products, such as certain flea and worm treatments, are available without a prescription, but prescription-only medicines need a prescription from a vet who has assessed your pet.
Can I use human medicine for my pet?
Not unless your vet advises it. The dose and formulation are often different, and some human medicines are toxic to pets.
How much does a prescription cost?
Our prescription and dispensing fees are shown below and on our vet prices page.
Costs and estimates
Additional items prescribed: £5.00
Dispensing fee: £7.00
Medicine administration fee: £20.00
Injection into the skin or muscle, for ongoing medication.
Pharmacy Medication: Contact us for pricing
The cost of the medication will depend on what is prescribed by the vet.
Prescription fee: £20.00
Prescription/Written prescription fee - £20 for 6 month supply of medication (unless it's a controlled drug can which we can only supply one months worth). Subsequent items ordered at the same time are £5 per written prescription.
Repeat prescription fee: £20.00
Individual estimates can vary depending on your pet and the care required. Please confirm your estimate with the practice before treatment.