Participants in the CVO Facilitated Discussions reported that maintenance of the current
situation with no changes in the use of antibiotics on farms will result in an increase in the
prevalence of antibiotic resistance, with a decrease in antibiotic effectiveness, and the
potential for serious public health implications. As well, there could be loss of effective
antibiotics due to removal from the markets, and as a result, limited treatment options that
will increase the cost of production. A concern was raised that veterinarians may lose
access to antibiotics, and may risk losing the privilege of prescribing drugs in an extra
label fashion.
CONSEQUENCES
OF MAINTAINING
CURRENT
SITUATION
CVO Facilitated Discussion session participants also identified that maintenance of
the status quo will eventually erode the image and credibility of veterinarians due to
a lack of public trust. Some veterinarians expressed concern that if they do not take
steps to become part of the solution, they will lose the opportunity to provide input with
decisions being made by uninformed individuals. There was also concern expressed
that veterinarians might become regulated by a body other than the CVO with regulations
imposed upon them.
It was also felt that maintenance of the status quo would lead to an increase in animal
welfare issues. It could result in increased negative consumer perception of raising
animals for food due to negative media coverage. If the food-producing animal industries
fail to act, additional public scrutiny might result with an increase in lack of public
confidence. There could also be a negative impact on the consumption of Canadian
raised food both nationally and internationally.
29
Maintenance of the current situation
with no changes in the use of
antibiotics on farms will result in an
increase in antibiotic resistance, with
a decrease in antibiotic effectiveness,
and the potential for serious public
health implications.
Antibiotic Use in Food-Producing Animals in Ontario: A Study of the Current Practises and Perceptions of Ontario Veterinarians