Antibiotics for animals

Good husbandry, biosecurity and hygiene are the cornerstones of protecting animal health and welfare on our farms, and we also need to look after our pets responsibly. However, despite our best efforts, like people, animals can succumb to disease. While many of these diseases can be prevented, for example by vaccination, there will always be cases where animals will need to be treated with antibiotics. These medicines have a vital role in treating, controlling and sometimes preventing the spread of bacterial diseases in our farm livestock and companion animals.

Farmers, vets and all those involved in the care of animals have a moral and legal duty to protect the health and welfare of animals under their care. The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world with protection provided under animal welfare legislation. Our commitment to safeguarding animal welfare includes the judicious use of antibiotics, prescribed only by a veterinary surgeon when infection and disease would result in pain and suffering.

Another important aspect of antibiotic use is their role in helping vets and farmers with the production of safe food from healthy animals.

Without the use of appropriate antibiotics, pets and farm livestock would endure pain and suffering and the production of safe food could be endangered.

We have produced a series of briefing documents which give more background information on the use of antibiotics for animal health.

 

NOAH, along with Kennel Club Charitable Trust, has supported a video produced by The Bella Moss Foundation – #BeatTheBugs

Briefing Documents

Press Releases

See Also