Prescription refills associated with a veterinary-client-patient-relationship (“VCPR”) are normally valid for only twelve months after an animal patient is last seen in-person by a veterinarian. As veterinarians offer fewer appointments due to COVID-19 restrictions, it has become more difficult to renew a pet’s prescription before it expires. But thanks to legislative efforts by Shelter PALS and its partner organizations, the Department of Consumer Affairs has issued several waivers extending this twelve-month period so that prescriptions related to that VCPR may be refilled without another in-person veterinary exam.
