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What does antibiotic resistance mean?
Antibiotics can be effective at treating bacterial infections. However, over time bacteria can evolve to become resistant to some antibiotics, making them less effective. The more we use antibiotics then the more quickly bacteria may adapt.
It’s difficult to develop new antibiotics and the process can take many years. This means that we need to take care to safeguard the drugs we already have and help prevent bacteria from developing antibiotic resistance.
Antibiotic resistance is a global One Health concern for People, Planet and Pets – it can affect all aspects of life on Earth.
So what can we do about it?
What are we doing at Hawick Vets in the Scottish Borders?
The work we all do here in the Scottish Borders can have global implications. Our vets at Hawick are working hard to safeguard antibiotics for the future. They may do this by:
- prescribing antibiotics only when necessary
- advising a narrow treatment spectrum
- offering alternative treatment options
- discussing the importance of using antibiotics responsibly.
What can you do as a pet owner?
Your vet’s main priority will always be the health and welfare of your pet. Don’t worry - if your pet does need antibiotics then your vet will still prescribe them. After an appointment at Hawick Vets, please make sure you follow your vet’s advice and instructions carefully.
If you ever find yourself with unused veterinary medication that you no longer need, please return it to us. We offer a free medicines disposal service in practice to ensure that unused medication is disposed of appropriately.
Please don’t keep hold of medication for longer than the period it has been prescribed for.
Please don’t give medication to any pet other than the pet it was originally prescribed for.
Please don’t dispose of unused medication with your general household waste, or down the sink.
If you need to discuss your pet’s treatment, or you become concerned about their condition, don’t hesitate to contact us at Hawick Vets.
World AMR Awareness Week 2023
World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) aims to raise awareness around antibiotic resistance. This year, WAAW is taking place from the 18th to the 24th November and we’re all being encouraged to “Go Blue for AMR”.
Click here to read more about the World Health Organisation’s WAAW 2023 campaign.
