The opioid epidemic has spread to veterinarian’s offices. People who abuse opioids are now hurting their pets in order to get drugs for themselves.
While veterinarians don’t dispense the most widely abused drugs such as Vicodin, OxyContin or Percocet, they do administer ketamine and hydrocodone for dogs with whooping cough and benzodiazepines for anxiety and insomnia.
Animals have faster metabolisms and higher doses are required.
Several states have passed laws that require veterinarians to check the prescription histories of pet owners before giving an opioid prescription. Vets aren’t qualified to investigate and they’re balking at making those decisions.
Pet owners are resorting to drastic measures to get drugs including teaching their dogs to cough on cue. If they want it, they’ll stop at nothing to get it.
Claudia
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