FECAVA Newsletter – November 2022
Dear veterinary community
18 to 24 November was World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) and 18 November European Antibiotic Awareness Day (EAAD); days dedicated to improving awareness and understanding of AMR and encouraging best practices among the public, One Health stakeholders and policymakers, who all play a critical role in reducing the further emergence and spread of AMR.
Veterinarians also have an essential role in prevention of AMR by prescribing antimicrobials only when necessary. However, vets are often pressured by pet owners (or themselves) who demand antibiotic therapy »just in case« or as a »quick fix.« Treatment without antibiotics usually requires more trust and cooperation between veterinarian and pet owner with watchful patience, more expenses for additional tests, and sometimes the need for urgent re-examination. It’s essential to manage client expectations in advance.
To support practicing companion vets in raising awareness, FECAVA has redesigned the poster Advice to Companion Animal Owners on Responsible use of Antibiotics and Infection Control with the support of Laboklin. On the FECAVA webpage, you’ll find it in a new format; as video clips and visuals to be shared on social media, posters for examination rooms, or longer videos for screens in the waiting room.
Everyone is responsible and can make a difference in addressing this growing human and animal health threat.
FECAVA Marketing Team