Survey reveals frequent antibiotic prescription without susceptibility testing in small animal veterinarians, highlighting the necessity of structured stewardship guidelines.
Key Points
Frequent empirical therapy occurs widely in companion animal clinics, reinforced by persistent pet owner demands to prescribe unverified antimicrobial treatments.
Over 50.77% of surveyed veterinarians routinely administer antibiotics without prior bacteriological testing or confirmed antimicrobial susceptibility profiles.
Highlights the critical need for national stewardship programs and clinical guidelines to combat antimicrobial resistance across companion animal practices.