AVMA Amends Policy on Antimicrobials in Livestock Feed

January 14, 2009 — 

The AVMA House of Delegates (HOD) held its winter session in Chicago January 9 - 11 and considered a number of resolutions including one submitted by a coalition of food animal veterinary groups. The AASV joined with the bovine practitioners, avian pathologists and small ruminant practitioners to submit a resolution recommending changes to the AVMA's existing policy on antimicrobial use in livestock feed.

The amended policy reinforces the need to base regulatory decisions regarding antimicrobial use on science-based risk analyses, emphasizes the important role of veterinarians in antimicrobial decisions and recognizes the necessity of establishing a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship. The policy urges veterinarians to continually assess and critically review the uses of antimicrobials in livestock feed and recommends that veterinarians consider preventative practices to minimize the need for antimicrobials.

Dr. Bill Hollis, the AASV delegate to the HOD, defended the suggested amendments by describing the process by which antimicrobial feeds are utilized in swine production. Following a brief discussion, the resolution passed by an 87% majority.

In addition to Dr. Hollis, the AASV was also represented at the winter meeting by Dr. Jen Greiner, HOD alternate delegate. Also attending the AVMA's Leadership Conference from AASV were Drs. Butch Baker, Paul Ruen and Brian Payne. The Leadership Conference participants participated in workshops on animal welfare, advocacy, membership issues, association management and personal development.