Veterinary Principles Use of antimicrobials should have a clear benefit and will therefore be based upon as accurate a diagnosis as possible. It will not always be possible to identify the causative pathogen or determine its antimicrobial sensitivity prior to the urgent need for treatment. This decision should be taken on the basis of clinical judgement. For this reason, it is of paramount importance that the veterinarian who has responsibility for the prescribing or the dispensing of the antimicrobials has a sound knowledge and understanding of the health profile of the animals to be treated. He should also have knowledge of the health profile of the geographical area in which the animals are situated.
Regular attendance is essential, as is the ability to visit the animals at short notice.
Use of antimicrobials in animals should not jeopardise human health. This is widely accepted and agreed. However, it is important to note that, thus far, the evidence of such a threat is limited. The most important aspect is hygiene. Whilst antimicrobial use can select resistant bacteria, both in humans and in animals, it is often inadequate hygiene measures that allow their dissemination.