Dispensing & Storage of Pet Drugs

Generally medicines should be dispensed in the manufacturer’s original packaging. If this is not possible then loose tablets should be dispensed in child proof containers with a product information sheet if one is available. Tablets that are produced in foil strips or blister packs should be left in these and dispensed either in their original packaging or transferred to another container, such as a cardboard box, if dispensing small amounts. Liquid medications should be dispensed and stored in coloured bottles with child proof lids.

Many medications can be affected by extreme temperatures, humidity or light and so medications are generally best stored in dry, cool, dark places, out of the reach of children and animals. Some medications however require refrigeration and your vet will inform you of this when dispensing the medication to you. It is best not to store these drugs in the same refrigerator as food products.

All medications should be labelled with any special storage requirements. Labels should also include:

• Your name and address
• Practice name and address
• Date
• Name, strength and formulation of medicine
• Total amount supplied
• Dose that needs to be given to your pet
• Frequency and route of administration    

Labels should also contain the phrases “Keep out of reach of children” and “For animal use only”.