59 Veterinarians’ attitudes toward antimicrobial use and selective dry cow treatment in the Netherlands (Research paper; Scherpenzeel, 2018)

Significant Impact Group(s): Prudent use AB \ Veterinarian
Species targeted: Dairy;
Age: Adult;
Outcome Parameter(s): Reduced sales of Antimicrobials; shift in income to advisory services
Summary: In a questionnaire study to evaluate potential associations between veterinarians’ attitudes toward AMU and Selective DCT, they found the general attitude of Dutch dairy veterinarians toward reduction of AMU and SDCT was positive. Most expressed the belief that they can still be a ‘good’ veterinarian when they prescribe less antimicrobials. Veterinarians indicated they progressively promoted SDCT at the start of 2013. Results showed that veterinarians with a favourable attitude mentioned positive aspects of SDCT, such as an increased awareness of AMU amongst farmers, improving animal health, reducing AMR, and a chance to add value for the farmer, more often than other veterinarians with a less favourable view. The unfavourable group indicated negative aspects of SDCT more often, such as a higher risk of sick cows and feeling pressured to follow the rules. Given the influence veterinarians have on the attitudes of farmers and the variability in their own attitudes, veterinarians need specific attention if programs to encourage responsible AMU and SDCT amongst farmers are to work.
59 Research paper – Scherpenzeel – 2018 – Veterinarians attitudes toward antimicrobial use and selective dry cow treatment in the Netherlands
Where to find the original material:
https://www.journalofdairyscience.org/article/S0022-0302(18)30276-5/fulltext; https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2017-13591
Country: NL

59 Research paper – Scherpenzeel – 2018 – Veterinarians attitudes toward antimicrobial use and selective dry cow treatment in the Netherlands