The 3 R's of Antimicrobial Stewardship

Antibiotics are a tool in our toolbox when it comes to keeping calves healthy. Resistance to antibiotics happens when the microorganisms evolve in a way that they are no longer killed off by the very medications used to treat them. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in both humans and animals.

Although antimicrobial-resistant bacteria affecting human health have risen mostly due to the use of antimicrobials in human medicine, antibiotic use in livestock is still known to contribute. Worldwide, an estimated 73 percent of antibiotics important to human medicine are sold to be used in livestock production. We have the opportunity in the agriculture industry to be a leader in curbing the rise of antimicrobial resistance by improving management programs and by turning to effective alternative therapies.

Responsibility

It is estimated that 75% of bottle-raised calves are treated with antimicrobials in the United States and 30% in Canada. In the past it has been easy to overuse antibiotics. As the concern for resistance grows, we need to better manage when and how we choose to use antibiotics. 

Responsible use of antibiotics means involving your veterinarian to develop protocols that spell out how and when you should treat a calf with antibiotics.  It is important to train employees in a manner that ensures consistent treatment.

Keeping accurate and detailed drug treatment records will help manage withdrawal times, avoid residues, and help you track how well treatments are working.

Reduction

Prevention is the best medicine. 

·       Focus on good biosecurity, cleanliness, ventilation, proper nutrition, and pest management. 

·       Utilize antibodies, synbiotics, and binders when possible.

Replacement

Ultimately, it should be our goal to find areas where we can replace antimicrobials with other solutions to prevent or treat disease.  Some of those alternatives may include….

·       Vaccines

·       Pre/Probiotics

·       Postbiotics

·       Bacteriophages

·       Engineered Peptides

·       Immune Stimulants

At Calf Distinction we are dedicated to providing alternative solutions to antibiotics. Our flagship product Surveillance Calf is a blend of probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, phytogenics, yeast culture, antibodies, yucca, and zinc methionine to keep those calves healthy and growing.  You can purchase Surveillance in the MicroBasics online store or from one of our many distributors.

Written by: Mariah Gull, M.S.