Amazon is broadening its reach into the prescription medication market by including products for pets. In partnership with Vetsource, announced on Thursday, Amazon will now offer “hundreds of prescription pet medications” for U.S. customers. This selection includes treatments for fleas, ticks, and various chronic conditions.
To order prescription medications for pets, customers can simply search for the desired medication on Amazon’s website and enter their veterinarian’s details during checkout. Vetsource will then handle the dispensing and delivery of the medications, with shipping taking approximately two to six days.
For first-time orders, Vetsource will seek approval from your veterinarian, but Amazon notes that refills can typically be processed without needing to contact the veterinarian again, provided there is an active prescription on file. All medications offered are FDA-approved, and Amazon plans to expand its selection over time.
The primary advantage of this service, similar to when Amazon launched its online pharmacy for humans in 2020, is convenience. Customers can easily order vital pet care prescriptions, such as flea and worm treatments, while shopping for everyday items. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility challenges or those living in rural areas who would otherwise need to visit a vet’s office or pharmacy. Additionally, this move positions Amazon to compete more directly with other online pharmacy services like Walmart, which introduced its own pet medication service in 2019.
