Responsible Use of Antibiotics in Pets
Antibiotics have served as a cornerstone of modern medicine, however inappropriate use means some bacteria are developing resistance to them.
PDSA Vet, Olivia Anderson-Nathan, said: “The more that antibiotics are misused, the higher the chance that bacteria will be able to become resistant to them, meaning they’ll no longer work. Without effective antibiotics, even simple bacterial infections would become impossible to treat and procedures and operations could become more risky, for both humans and pets.
“It’s important antibiotics are used responsibly to avoid resistance so we need to take steps to ensure we have effective antibiotics – both now and in the future.”
Olivia has also put together some top tips for pet owners that can help to prevent antibiotic resistance:
- Antibiotics are not always the answer
Not every condition requires antibiotics – for example, they don’t kill viruses. Don’t insist on antibiotics if your vet doesn’t think they’re needed. To make sure antibiotics stay effective now and in the future, they should only be used when they are really necessary.
- Keep your pet healthy
Healthy pets are more likely to be able to fight off infections. Keeping your pet at the correct weight by feeding them an ideal diet for their age and lifestyle helps them to stay healthy, as does keeping them fit with regular walks. Preventive care, such as vaccinations and neutering, is vital and if your animal becomes unwell, go to your vet straight away.
- Do not give medicine to your animal that your vet hasn’t prescribed
Only use medications prescribed for that specific pet in that specific instance. Don’t share medications between animals or re-use something prescribed on a previous occasion. At best, these medications might not work for your pet, and at worst they could harm your pet and promote antibiotic resistance. You should also never give human medicines to your pet, as this can be incredibly dangerous.
- Wash your hands after petting your animal
The most common way germs are spread among humans is on our hands. Although some of these germs are harmless, others can cause diseases. Washing your hands properly with soap and water is the single most important things you can do to reduce the spread of infection and mean antibiotics won’t be needed in the first place.
- Further tests might be needed
For your vet to know whether treatment with antibiotics is necessary, they might recommend running tests to check whether bacteria are causing the problem and which antibiotics will work best against them. That way, your vet can prescribe the right antibiotic for your pet’s infection.
- Follow the instructions and always finish the course
Give your pet the medicine at the correct dose, and finish the full course of antibiotics. If your pet seems better after a short time, you should still continue the treatment as directed by your vet.
- Talk to your vet
If you have questions about antibiotics or any medication your pet is taking, talk about this with your vet. They are best placed to advise you about your pet’s treatment.
PDSA is the UK’s leading vet charity. We’re on a mission to improve pet wellbeing through prevention, education and treatment. Support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information. www.pdsa.org.uk.
For us to have pets, we recommend your recommendations. It is a valuable information and to take it into account always. Greetings.
Thanks
I learned that the hard way. This also applies to general medications and herbal remedies.
A lot of people don’t understand the impact of how we use antibiotics.
What a great subject to spread awareness about! It’s also a good idea to wash food and water dishes, regularly.
Thanks! It’s indeed one we thought important to share. And if you ever fancy contributing a post to us with a link to your own blog you’d be most welcome. 🙂
Thank you, very much!
🙂