New law requires NC veterinarians to report opioid prescriptions to state

NORTH CAROLINA — North Carolina is cracking down after some people who are addicted to opioids lied to their pet's veterinarians and even harmed their pets to get their prescriptions, according to our news affiliate WLOS.

More than two years ago, Channel 9 reported that North Carolina lawmakers were considering a bill requiring vets to report to the state when they prescribe opioids. Now, it is officially law.

The new law comes after some pet owners were found abusing the prescriptions by injuring their animals to get the drugs for themselves.

Now, North Carolina requires all veterinarians to report when they prescribe more than 48 hours worth of opioids.

North Carolina joins 15 other states, plust Washington D.C. in the reporting requirement.

Dr. Rachelle McKinnon from the Avery Creek Pet Hospital used her to get multiple tramadol prescriptions through her DEA registration number.

"On our prescriptions, sometimes it has our DEA number on the prescription pads, so it would be an easy thing for someone to use and just call in a prescription and make up whatever name they wanted to," McKinnon said.

Veterinarians said the new law may mean more work, but most agree it is well worth it to help combat the opioid crisis.

Cox Media Group