hi everyone, just saw a piece in my local paper about a women who has opened her own pet pharmacy and was wondering if anyone had used it and what they thought of the prices.  It is quite near to where i live so i was wondering if it was cheaper than the vets for wormers and frontline combo, but she does not seem to stock combo.  im not sure if i can put the website on here but it is advertised on Page 29 of the Sunderland Echo. thanks in advance.

Hi there

She won't be able to sell Frontline Combo as it's still classed as a POM so can be obtained only on prescription.  My personal opinion, which in no way reflects the views of my employer, is that a lot of these things are overpriced.  However bear in mind that it's the owner of the practice who decides what we're going to charge and the vets and nurses have no input so please don't shout at us! :-)

On this topic, I was surprised to see my local pet shop selling Malaseb, another POM, (at a higher price than we do I might add!)  I wondered whether or not to say anything but kept my mouth shut as I didn't want to cause a scene.  What worries me is that owners might but completely the wrong drugs, thinking they're getting a bargain, and end up causing more harm to their pets.  I've seen the same shop selling fish tanks to people along with fish to put in it that day, not bothering to explain that a tank needs to mature.  They also sell dyed fish and species such as silver sharks to people whose tanks measure only 2ft, assuring them that the fish will only grow to the size of its tank.  It's extraordinary how many people still believe that!

I understand the shop owners have to make a living but I cannot justify making money through such cruelty.  Obviously I'd never buy livestock there though I have to admit I do buy some dry goods from them, though when I was buying water purifier I was astounded to be told "Water changes aren't really necessary, unless the fish are gasping at the surface"!  I think I'll keep on doing things my way as my fish seem to be thriving!

She won't be able to sell Frontline Combo as it's still classed as a POM so can be obtained only on prescription.

I thought the Frontline spray was prescription only but the spot on wasn't?  Isn't Frontline Combo the spot on one?

Debs

There are different types of Frontline Spot-on. The ordinary Spot-on which only kills fleas and ticks is now available without prescription. The Frontline 'Combo' Spot-On, which also inhibits the development of flea eggs and larvae (additional chemical), is still prescription-only.

Ahh ok thanks JG.  I only ever use the spray so wasn't sure which one was which.

Debs

I wonder why the spray is still POM, as it is more dilute than the spot on?  Though of course there is more of it.

I think the "more of it" is the thing.  I suppose the fact the Spot on is already in a prescribed quantity may be why it is regarded as requiring less supervision.