Community Leaders
Stronger Communities Start With Safe Medications.
Pet medication diversion is a hidden but growing public health issue. You can be part of the solution.
Why is prevention important in your community?
Every home with a pet is a potential source of unused medication.
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Youth are at risk. When asked where they got the medications they misused, most young people say “from home — a friend’s or my own.”
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It strains community resources. Misuse of prescription drugs- including pet medications- leads to more ER visits, increased law enforcement cases, and long-term health costs.
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Veterinary professionals can’t solve it alone. They need community support — community leaders who will help raise awareness, expand safe disposal options, and spread prevention resources.
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This is preventable. With the right tools, policies, and partnerships, communities can close gaps, keep medications out of the wrong hands, and protect both people and pets.
Community Prevention Strategies
Raise Awareness
Many people don’t realize pet medications can be just as addictive and dangerous as human prescriptions. Campaigns in clinics, schools, and online help families understand the risks and take simple steps to protect their homes.
Promote Best Practices
Leftover pet medications are often left unsecured in homes, barns, and trucks, making them easy to misuse. Communities can reduce risk by installing permanent drop boxes, promoting DEA Take Back Day events, and providing at-home disposal information.
Work Alongside Vets
Veterinarians are key partners in prevention but need community support. Encourage clinics to share safe storage and disposal guidance, post signage, and complete the free Paws Off Those Meds training.
Support Your Community
Parents are the first line of defense against youth substance use. Communities can provide lock boxes, conversation tips, and prevention education that highlight pet medications as part of the bigger prevention picture.
Find a Paws Off coalition near you
