Antibiotics have been a game-changer in treating bacterial infections, saving countless lives -human and animal alike. However, the misuse and overuse of these critical medicines have led to a growing global challenge: antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
In this blog, we’ll discuss what AMR is and why it’s crucial for safeguarding our beloved pets and ensuring antibiotics remain effective for years to come.
AMR occurs when bacteria adapt to survive against the antibiotics designed to kill them. This resistance makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of complications. In severe cases, infections can become untreatable, posing a significant threat to both human and animal health.
Pets can also suffer the consequences of AMR. Misusing or unnecessarily prescribing antibiotics can lead to resistant bacteria, making common infections dangerous for your furry companions. For example:
Responsible antibiotic use ensures that your pets get the best possible care without contributing to this global challenge.
As a leading veterinary practice in Hampshire, St Kitts Vets is at the forefront of tackling AMR. Here’s how we’re making a difference:
As part of the annual Antibiotic Amnesty campaign, we invite all owners to return out-of-date and unused antibiotics that were prescribed to your pets, so that they can be disposed of safely.
It’s common for people to throw away unused veterinary antibiotics in household waste, or down sinks and toilets, without realising that this can have a negative impact on water quality, aquatic life and wildlife. Leaving leftover or expired veterinary antibiotics lying around also increases the chance of them being used or consumed.
Return unused antibiotics: If you have any unused or out-of-date antibiotics (including tables, capsules or liquids) at home that were previously prescribed for your pet, please bring them with you to your next appointment at one of our practices.
Follow prescriptions: Always give antibiotics exactly as prescribed and complete the full course, even if your pet seems better.
Raise awareness: Share this blog and the importance of AMR awareness with fellow pet owners.
At St Kitts Vets, your pet’s health and wellbeing are our top priority. By working together, we can make a significant impact in combating antimicrobial resistance, ensuring a healthier future for pets, people, and the planet.
If you have any questions about antibiotic use or AMR, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
St Kitts Vets Hartley Wintney: 01252 844044
St Kitts Vets Basingstoke: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
This November, St Kitts Vets are joining together with the British Veterinary Association (BVA) for their Antibiotic Amnesty campaign. We are pleased to be accepting out-of-date and unused antibiotics that were previously prescribed for your pets, so they can be disposed of safely.
Following the success of the inaugural campaign in 2022, the collaboration is returning for its second year to prevent the chance of out-of-date veterinary antibiotics being used, or causing harm if they are disposed of incorrectly.
Many people throw away unused veterinary antibiotics in household waste, or down sinks and toilets, without realising that this can have a negative impact on water quality, aquatic life and wildlife. Leaving leftover or expired veterinary antibiotics lying around also increases the chance of them being used or consumed.
The issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has grown in recent years, with antibiotic residues being detected in rivers around the world. Use of leftover or expired medication can also increase the risk of AMR if used for the wrong indication and potentially delay a diagnosis.
If you have any questions about Antibiotic Amnesty, please contact your local St Kitts practice directly:
St Kitts Veterinary Centre: 01252 844044
Basingstoke Veterinary Centre: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
