Antibiotic Awareness Week—Get smart about antibiotic use!

What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are medications designed to kill or stop of the growth of bacteria. They’re prescribed for people and pets who have an infection caused by bacteria. Antimicrobials is a term you may also have heard of—it is an umbrella term that refers to all medications that kill or slow the spread of microorganisms including bacteria, certain viruses, protozoans and fungi such as mold and mildew. Antimicrobials are used to prevent and treat disease in people, animals and plants.

What is antimicrobial resistance?
Bacteria, like other organisms, naturally try to find ways to avoid being killed or injured by antibiotics. This process may speed up when antibiotics are used frequently or for infections that aren’t caused by bacteria. The weaker bacteria are killed, but not those that are more resistant. Resistant microorganisms can then infect people, animals—including pets—and the environment. These resistant microorganisms can cause serious diseases that are difficult to treat with the antimicrobial medications available today.

No one wants to see their loved one suffer with an illness, whether it’s a person or a beloved pet. But the overuse and misuse of antimicrobials, including antibiotics, is the most important factor contributing to antimicrobial resistance. 

How can I help?
Of course, there are times when antimicrobials are absolutely necessary to treat infections. In these cases, it’s important to carefully follow the directions provided by your veterinarian. 

• The dosing instructions will be different for every breed, species and weight—what’s correct for your Doberman won’t be correct for your Corgi or your cat.
• Don’t stop the medication when your pet appears to be feeling better. This can lead to antimicrobial resistance.
• Follow the directions you were provided with. Your veterinarian has had years of training and has access to the latest evidence on how long your pet should take their medication.
• Never give antibiotics (or over-the-counter medications) prescribed for human use—or other pets in your home—to your pets (or vice versa). If you suspect your pet has an infection, see your veterinarian for the correct medication and dosing. Many human medications are dangerous for pets.
• Never buy antimicrobials for your pet from unverified sites on the internet. These medications can be counterfeit and may not actually contain what the label says, putting your pet’s health at risk. They also might not be the right medication for your pet’s condition.
• Always follow your veterinarian’s advice to ensure that your pet stays healthy and to help reduce the chance of antimicrobial resistance.
• Practice preventive medicine for your pet. Keep your pet up to date with vaccinations and parasite preventives (for heartworm, fleas, ticks and intestinal parasites) as well as scheduling regular professional dental cleanings. These actions reduce the need for antimicrobials.
• Avoid asking your own healthcare provider for antibiotics when you have a cold. Colds are caused by viruses and must simply run their course. 
  

Unused portions of antimicrobials (or any medication) must be disposed of properly. Don’t flush them down the toilet, pour them down the drain or throw them in the garbage can. Return any unused medications to your veterinary hospital for proper disposal.

*Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.