Bayer launches guide to safe antimicrobial use for small animal vets

Bayer has announced the launch of a new guide to help educate small animal vets in the responsible prescribing of antimicrobial products.

Kicking off the company's Education Now, Safeguarding Antimicrobials initiative, the launch of the guide is indicative of the focus Bayer is placing on combating the spread of antibiotic resistance by ensuring such treatments are only used when absolutely necessary.

The guide is written by Simon Tappin, a recognised specialist in veterinary internal medicine, and provides practical advice on the appropriate use of antibiotics in general practice, including how to create an antibiotic practice policy, ways to optimise therapy and how to limit the development of antimicrobial resistance.

Vets are also being given the opportunity to take part in a quiz to test and refresh their knowledge on antimicrobials, as part of Bayer's efforts to promote the launch of the guide.

A recent Bayer survey showed that 63 percent of vets say they would like to improve their knowledge of antimicrobials.

Hannah Watts, group product manager at Bayer, said: "Following the results of recent polls amongst UK practising small animal vets, we have responded by producing a range of materials to support vets in daily practice, helping them make optimal decisions when it comes to prescribing antimicrobials."