Antibiotic resistance is one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time. According to the World Health Organization, antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections were directly responsible for 1.27 million deaths worldwide in 2019. In the UK, the Health Security Agency reported an estimated 66,730 serious antibiotic-resistant infections in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Data from the English Surveillance of Antibiotic Prescribing and Utilisation Report shows that 65% of resistant bloodstream infections over the past five years were caused by E. coli.
While these statistics are alarming, they highlight the urgent need for public awareness and that’s where veterinary teams play a vital role.
Educating Clients: Why It Matters
As part of the One Health approach, veterinary professionals are uniquely positioned to help clients understand how antibiotic use in animals contributes to resistance. Yet many pet owners remain unaware of the risks and responsibilities involved.
To support your conversations, we’ve launched a new educational video in your Vet Channel media library, timed to coincide with World AMR Awareness Week and the Animal Medicines Amnesty.
What the Video Covers
This concise and impactful video outlines simple, practical steps clients can take to help reduce antibiotic resistance:
- Trust your vet’s judgement – don’t request antibiotics unless advised
- Follow through with culture and sensitivity testing when recommended
- Administer antibiotics exactly as prescribed — correct dose, timing, and duration
- Never stop treatment early, even if the pet seems better
- Avoid stockpiling or sharing antibiotics with other pets or people
- Return unused antibiotics to the practice for safe disposal
The video ends by encouraging clients to speak to your team if they have questions, helping to build trust and strengthen your client relationships.
Take Action Today
Add this video to your playlist and start educating your clients on this crucial topic, all from the comfort of your waiting room. It’s a simple, effective way to extend your clinical message and support responsible pet care.