Abuse Of Drugs Intended For Pets Prompts Warning

FRANCONIA, VA—A detective from the Franconia Police District is raising awareness about another danger of the drug crisis: people getting opioids and other prescriptions meant for pets. People are turning to veterinarians to obtain opioids and benzodiazepines, and the problem hasn't been foreign to Fairfax County.

Detective Richard Henry investigated a case of a man receiving prescriptions from multiple veterinarians in 2016. Investigations show the man would deceive the veterinarians to receive prescriptions for Xanax and Tramadol and use the medications himself. The man brought his Boxer to six different veterinarians, claiming the dog showed symptoms like separation anxiety and fear of thunderstorms and was peeing on pillows and chewing floor trimming.

The detective has since worked a similar case.

That's why he has compiled a brochure to warm veterinarians and residents of "vet shopping," which has become problematic across the country.

Some of the warning signs of "vet shopping" include:

• New patients bringing in seriously injured animals
• Describing symptoms which seem inconsistent with the exam
• Describing symptoms requiring specific medications
• Requesting medications by name
• Requesting early refills of medication
• Requesting refills while missing appointments
• Aggressive pet owners

Residents can also get help for themselves or another by calling the Community Services Board at Merrifield Center at 703-573-5679 for treatment and recovery services. Walk-ins are also available at 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr, Fairfax Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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