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Survey highlights vets' antibiotic resistance concerns
More than 70 per cent of companion animal vets said they felt clients were not aware of antibiotic resistance.

BVA calls on pet owners to work with their vet to tackle the threat.

More than 90 per cent of vets fear their inability to treat infections in pets in the face of antibiotic resistance, according to new research.

Figures from the BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey – released ahead of European Antibiotic Awareness Day (18 November) - also reveal a general lack of understanding about the threat of antibiotic resistance among pet owners. 

Of the 406 companion animal vets that responded to the survey, 76 per cent said they felt clients were not aware of the issue. Almost all said they had seen clients attend appointments expecting to receive antibiotics to treat their pets.

In light of the findings, BVA President Justine Shotton is calling on pet owners to work with their vet to tackle the threat of antimicrobial resistance. 

“Worryingly, as in human medicine, some bacteria no longer respond to the antibiotics we use to treat pets,” she said. “We know that owners love their pets and may often think that antibiotics are the best answer to treat their beloved companion, but this is not always the case. 

“We need pet owners to help us keep antibiotics working against serious and potentially life-threatening infections now and in the future. Don’t automatically expect antibiotics when your pet is unwell and always follow your vet’s instructions in giving the recommended dose at the right time and for the duration prescribed.”

To help tackle the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, the BVA has published the following series of tips to help pet owners be antibiotic aware and play an active role in the fight against antibiotic resistance:

  1. Antibiotics are not always the answer: Antibiotics only treat illnesses caused by bacteria, not viruses. Trust your vet if they say antibiotics aren't needed.
  2. Always finish the antibiotic course: Take the recommended dose, at the right time, for the duration prescribed by your vet. Not completing the course can be very risky and may allow resistant bacteria to survive.
  3. Use the right drug for the right bug: Different antibiotics work for different bacteria. Sensitivity tests recommended by your vet can help identify the right drug.
  4. Don’t try to treat your pet yourself: Don’t share antibiotics between animals or re-use tablets that were prescribed for an earlier illness. They may not be appropriate for your pet’s current condition, or they may be toxic for certain animals, out of date or contaminated. Never give human medicines to your pet as they could be dangerous.
  5. Prevention is always better: Avoid the need for antibiotics by taking your pet for regular health checks to a vet. Follow your vet’s advice, give your pet a nutritionally balanced diet, and keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date.

BVA is also encouraging pet owners to look at the ‘Are you antibiotic aware?’ poster, developed by human and animal health organisations, to see what steps they can take to use antibiotics responsibly. The resource is available for download at bva.co.uk.

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."