Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Ordering drugs overseas for pets w/out a prescription.

What legal ramifications could come from ordering a drug that requires a prescription in the US overseas for a dog?

A friend has researched a particular drug and feels it would greatly help her dog's behavior. However, as it's use in dogs is new/rare, it's been hard for her to find a vet willing to try it.

How much trouble could she impose on herself if its for a pet?


Asked on 2/06/01, 1:46 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Stephen Sitkoff Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP

Re: Ordering drugs overseas for pets w/out a prescription.

Since the drug requires a prescription in the US you would likely risk being charged with a crime if caught. Many individuals order medications over the internet from foreign countries. If it is illegal to have the drug in the US without a prescription then ordering it from a foreign country does not protect you. Be very careful if you decide to order.

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Answered on 3/22/01, 3:47 am
Victor Hobbs Victor E. Hobbs

Re: Ordering drugs overseas for pets w/out a prescription.

This matter could be both a Federal and a State Criminal Offense. Therefor both criminal statutes would have to be researched.

If the drug is not on some list as having a potential use for human hallucination or mind altering state in humans, then it may not be a criminal act.

The matter would take some time to research, read that as money.

If there is no prescription required to order the drug in this country. But the vets are reluctant to use it because it is unproven then there is probably no problem. Your question is unclear on that point.

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Answered on 3/20/01, 6:42 am


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