How Long Does It Take to Check a Prescription?
What to expect once your prescription reaches our team
Quick Answer
- Prescription checking usually takes 1–2 working days
- Our RCVS-authorised vet team reviews every prescription
- You'll be contacted if anything else is needed
- Once approved, your order is dispensed and dispatched
What Happens While It's Being Checked
- Your prescription arrives with us, either through the upload form or by email.
- Our vet team reviews it to make sure everything is correct before it's passed to our trained dispensers.
- We contact you if anything needs clarifying, such as an unclear detail or a missing piece of information.
- Once verified, your order is approved and moves on to being dispensed and dispatched.
Why Checking Takes a Little Time
Every prescription is reviewed by our RCVS-authorised vet team before any prescription-only medicine is dispensed. This step is there to make sure the right medicine reaches the right pet safely.
If It's Taking Longer Than Expected
- Checking can occasionally take a little longer if your vet practice needs to be contacted
- If you're waiting on something urgently, contact us beforehand and we can let you know what to expect
- If you are unsure where things stand with your prescription, please contact Pet Med Direct with your order number and we will help
How Pet Med Direct Can Help
To avoid delays, it helps to upload your prescription as soon as you place your order, with your order number included.
Some treatments require a valid veterinary prescription. Pet Med Direct can only supply prescription medicines after the prescription has been checked. Always follow your vet's advice and the directions on the medicine label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does checking happen on weekends?
Checking usually takes 1–2 working days, so prescriptions sent over a weekend are generally reviewed once our team is back in on the next working day.
Will I be told once my prescription is approved?
Our team will contact you if they need any additional information. If you'd like to check on progress, please contact Pet Med Direct with your order number and we will help.
Can I speed up the checking process?
Uploading a clear, complete prescription as soon as you order — with your order number included — is the best way to help things move smoothly.
Does the rest of my order wait too?
If your order contains both prescription and non-prescription items, everything is shipped together once the prescription has been approved.

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Shop Pet Med DirectIf you are concerned with your pet’s health, please consult a qualified veterinarian.
