Can a veterinarian refuse to write a prescription for a client/patient?
There is no requirement in Texas law for a veterinarian to write prescriptions. Veterinarians are among the few professionals that maintain their own drug and medication inventories. This does give some clients concern, but we do not have the authority to change the practice. We are aware of the AVMA’s Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics that encourages the writing of prescriptions upon request, but these are guidelines only and the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners cannot enforce them. Some veterinarians are willing to negotiate prices for medications to compete with lower cost pharmacies. You may wish to make inquiries concerning this when you next take your pets to a veterinarian.
