Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating whether veterinary clinics unfairly charge “prescription authorization” or “script release” fees—or refuse to approve outside pharmacy requests from services like Chewy, Costco, or Cost Plus.
What Pet Owners Report About Veterinary Fees
Across Reddit and Facebook, pet owners describe clinics charging $10–$40 just to approve prescriptions through third-party pharmacies.
- A Reddit thread on r/dogs describes a clinic demanding $15 per Chewy authorization and threatening to withhold refills.
- In Southern Maryland Facebook groups, owners compared $13–$25 “script release” fees for sending prescriptions to outside vendors.
Many consumers say they were never told these fees existed until they requested to use Chewy or Costco instead of the clinic’s in-house pharmacy.
Why Pet Owners Should Be Concerned
Charging undisclosed “authorization” fees or refusing to release valid prescriptions may violate state Unfair or Deceptive Acts and Practices (UDAP) laws.
It may also amount to tortious interference with a consumer’s right to choose their pharmacy. Some states require vets to provide timely, reasonable access to written prescriptions—meaning these practices could breach veterinary board regulations as well.
Signs You May Be Affected by Prescription Blocking
- Your clinic demanded payment to authorize a Chewy, Costco, or other outside prescription.
- You were denied or delayed a refill request because you didn’t buy medication in-house.
- You were charged an unexplained “processing” or “script release” fee.
If your clinic charged a junk prescription fee or blocked your outside pharmacy order, contact us at [email protected] or (202) 470-3520.