I am sure you have herd phrases “veterinary feed directive,” “veterinarian-client-patient relationship,” and “judicious use of antibiotics.”
There has been much discussion about these topics in regards to use of antibiotics and the new VFD rules that go into effect in January 2017. The VFD is basically a prescription for use of an antibiotic for treatment of a group of animals using feed-grade medications. The key to this is the prescribed use of an antibiotic to treat disease that has been diagnosed within a group. This requires evaluation by a veterinarian. Before a prescription antibiotic or other medication can be sold for use on an animal, or veterinary-client-patient relationship must be established.
A valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists when your veterinarian knows your animals well enough to diagnose and treat any medical condition your animals develop. A VCPR is established only when a veterinarian examines the animal or animals in question and makes at least a presumptive diagnosis of disease. A VCPR cannot be established via online contact, a phone conversation or email. Once a veterinarian has examined and diagnosed a patient, they may prescribe medication for the treatment of that disease. Specific directions, as well as proper milk and meat withholding times, must be included on labeling for the medication prescribed.
Current law states that in order for a veterinarian to prescribe or dispense medication for your animals, a valid VCPR must exist. Most states require regular visits to see the animals on the farm, and any new condition that presents must be examined before medication is dispensed. The reasons for this are multiple. First, an exam is more likely to provide information to make an accurate diagnosis and improving treatment outcome. Secondly, more accurate dosing and treatment regimens can be designed after evaluating animals. This also means that appropriate milk and meat withdrawal times can be determined. Thirdly, the veterinarian can become aware of environmental conditions that may have precipitated the disease outbreak and make recommendations for changes to benefit both the owner and animals in question.
There are many online pharmacies and local veterinary supply stores that supply and store prescription medications. These sources can be a convenient source of medications, but they must adhere to prescription laws and abide by selling antibiotics and other prescription medications only with a valid prescription by the veterinarian of record for the farm. A valid VCPR does not exist when an antibiotic is purchased at a vet supply store with a veterinarian prescription signed by someone who has not examined the animals being treated, or in many instances, has never stepped foot on the farm. Only a veterinarian who has been on the farm and examined animals, and has a working knowledge of your individual operation, can adequately make the necessary decisions to properly treat your livestock and pets.
Working with your regular veterinarian has many advantages, and in our ever changing world where the use of all medications is more closely scrutinized than ever, the need for a valid VCPR is not only wise, it is imperative.
