Sheep Industry News September 2022

their needs are likely to be throughout the year." Depending on the type of production, this could be an annual or semi-annual visit to the farm or ranch. Most veterinarians are willing to work out a convenient time, such as when they are out for a visit to a neighboring facility. Establishing a VCPR now will make the transition smoother and be helpful when that emergency happens, because it will. It is important to note that the new FDA rule does not require producers to purchase antibiotics only through their veterinarian, and other pharmacies can fill a prescription. Swannack, however, worries about those producers who are considering stocking up on currently available over-the-counter antimicrobials for future use and those who share products with their neighbors. She advises against it for several reasons. First, the current law says that if an illegal residue is found in an animal or animal product – for example milk or cheese – no matter who administered it or how it was sourced, your veterinarian of record is responsible, according to the USDA. This jeopardizes the veterinarian's license and the veterinarian-client-patient relation ship significantly. "If an antimicrobial is used without a prescription and later residue is found (at slaughter), the regulatory action will come back on the veterinarian associated with the operation, even if that veterinarian didn't know an antimicrobial had been used and didn't prescribe it," says Swannack. "That puts me at risk. It puts my

license at risk, and my livelihood." Second, expired drugs break down over time and typically have decreased effectiveness – which can lead to microbial resistance – and that is what the FDA is trying to prevent. Also, tetracycline breaks down into toxic components over time and can cause kidney injury and dehydration. It should not be used past its expiration date. While telemedicine options are available, they can be problem atic, especially if the relationship is fairly new. Often producers will have in their mind what they believe the problem to be and will only share the symptoms that confirm their own diagnosis. Some times the producer might be right, but if the problem is misdiag nosed it can prolong the situation, or even turn out badly. A good veterinarian-client-patient relationship is built on trust – trust that the veterinarian can do their job and trust that the infor mation being provided from the producer is accurate and honest. Swannack also advises producers to be careful relying on infor mation from the internet, as often the information that circulates there and on social media is inaccurate. As much as the FDA changes might be disliked, they are going to happen. Antibiotic resistance in animals and humans is a serious concern that is spurring the regulatory action. Being prepared is your best defense against any disruption to your operation. Visit SheepUSA.org/fda-guidance-ending-over-the-counter antibiotics for more information.

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OCTOBER 5-9, 2022 Sun Valley • Ketchum • Hailey, Idaho

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