Veterinary Products

Veterinary products cover a broad range of items developed specifically to support the health and wellbeing of animals. These may include medicines, vaccines, diagnostic tools, surgical supplies, nutritional supplements and grooming products used for pets, livestock and even wildlife.

They play an important role in helping to prevent, diagnose and manage illness, as well as maintain overall health. Regulations are in place to help ensure product safety and quality. If you are unsure which option is appropriate for your pet, our pharmacists are happy to provide guidance before you purchase.

Veterinary products cover a range of categories designed to support your pet’s health and daily care. Each type plays a different role in prevention, treatment, or general wellbeing:

• Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter treatments used to manage various illnesses and health conditions.
• Vaccines: Essential for preventing diseases, vaccines are vital for the health of dogs, cats, and other pets.
• Nutritional Supplements: Vitamins, minerals, and joint support products to enhance your pet’s diet.
• Grooming Supplies: Tools and products that help maintain your pet’s hygiene, such as shampoos, brushes, and dental care items.
• Parasite Control: Products designed to prevent or eliminate fleas, ticks, and worms that can harm your pet's health.

If you’re unsure which option suits your pet’s needs, our pharmacists are happy to assist.

Yes, veterinary products in Australia are regulated to help ensure they meet appropriate safety, quality and effectiveness standards. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is responsible for assessing and registering veterinary medicines and vaccines before they can be supplied.

Depending on the product type, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) may also have oversight roles, particularly in relation to manufacturing standards, biosecurity and imports. If you have questions about a specific product, our pharmacists are happy to help guide you.

If your pet does not seem to be responding well to a product, it is important to act promptly and carefully. The following steps can help guide you:

• Observe your pet closely: Watch for changes such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite, itching or unusual behaviour.
• Contact your veterinarian promptly: Seek professional advice as soon as you notice concerning symptoms.
• Provide detailed information: Share the product name, dosage, how long it has been used, and any other medicines or supplements your pet is taking.
• Follow professional guidance: Do not stop or adjust a prescribed product unless your veterinarian advises you to do so.
• Continue monitoring: Keep track of any improvement or worsening of symptoms and update your veterinarian accordingly.
• Consider sensitivities: Some pets may react to certain ingredients, so discuss any known allergies with your veterinarian.
• Keep the packaging: This can assist with identifying ingredients and reporting suspected adverse reactions.

If you need further support, our pharmacists are also available to guide you on next steps.

Side effects can occur with animal treatments, although many pets tolerate them well. The likelihood and type of reaction can vary depending on the product, your pet’s species, and their individual health.

Commonly reported side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset: Vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, or loss of appetite.
• Behavioural changes: Unusual lethargy, restlessness, increased activity or changes in temperament.
• Allergic reactions: Itching, swelling, or skin irritation, particularly with topical treatments.
• Changes in appetite or activity levels: Eating more or less than usual, or decreased activity levels.
• Organ-related concerns: In rare cases, some medicines may affect liver or kidney function.

Monitor your pet closely when starting any new product and contact your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual. Our pharmacists are also available to assist with general guidance.

Proper storage is important to help maintain the safety and effectiveness of products used for your pet’s care. Following a few simple guidelines can make a real difference:

• Read the label carefully: Always follow the specific storage instructions provided on the packaging.
• Store at the correct temperature: Many items should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, while some may require refrigeration.
• Keep in original packaging: This helps ensure you have the correct dosing and expiry information on hand.
• Protect from humidity: Excess moisture can affect product stability.
• Store safely: Keep all items out of reach of children and pets.
• Check expiry dates regularly: Dispose of expired products appropriately according to local guidelines.

If you are unsure about storage requirements, our pharmacists are happy to help.