With growing concerns around parasiticide resistance and their impact on the environment, veterinary professionals are invited to debate the use and prescription of these medicines, alongside other hot topics impacting the profession and animal welfare, in the Interactive Zone at BVA Live next month
Responsible or reckless? Parasiticide prescribing in vet care will see British Veterinary Association (BVA) senior vice president Anna Judson join veterinary surgeon Alice Watson to discuss whether veterinary practices are prescribing small animal parasiticides responsibly and whether changes need to be made.
The session comes as BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey statistics reveal that 73% of vets in clinical practice report clients are not very concerned about parasiticide resistance, whilst almost all (98%) companion animal vets are concerned about the impact of parasiticides on the environment.
In addition, 11% of vets say they thought parasiticide use could be reduced through educating the general public and pet owners, and 11% say it could be reduced by regulating dispensing, by making all parasiticides prescription-only.
BVA president Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “We know many veterinary professionals are concerned about parasiticide resistance, their impact on the environment and how to use them responsibly.
“This session is a fantastic opportunity to share your views on this issue, what you see in practice and what action is needed to ensure they are used responsibly to minimise any negative impact.”
