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Can I get my dog's prescription diet food online without a vet?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 6 lbs

Hi there. We have a 16 yr old male Shih tsu dog. For years we have been feeding him royal canin low fat gastrointestinal wet food and it seems to really work for him. This food for some reason needs a veterinarian prescription. We need to renew our prescription and would like to avoid the stress and cost of bringing him in and our vet won’t renew it without seeing him. Is there any way of getting a prescription from you online? Thank you. His name is Kevin.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on May 5, 2022

Hello Kevin,

My name is Dr. Shines and I understand your thought process. Going to the veterinarian can be stressful!

Unfortunately online veterinarians are not legally allowed to provide any type of prescription. Any prescription, even prescription food, requires a legal client patient relationship. This can only be established by having a physical exam. This legal relationship will last for 12 months from the date of the exam.

I recommend to call Kevin's veterinarian and ask if there is a reason they aren't approving the prescription. Maybe there's a specific reason?

You might also look into a mobile veterinarian who can come to your home and save Kevin the stress of a trip.

I hope this helps and please feel free to reach out with any additional questions.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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