Livestock produces — please be aware!

 JERRY LITTLE

UK Extension Agent

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has ruled that as of January 1, 2017, the following drugs will require a Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) if added to feed. A prescription will be needed if used in water soluble form. The VFD or prescription must be provided by a licensed veterinarian.

Apramycin, Chlortetracycline, Erythromycin, Hygromycin B, Lincomycin, Neomycin, Oleandomycin, Ormetoprim, Oxytetracycline, Penicillin, Streptomycin, Sulfadimethoxine, Sulfamerazine, Slfamethazine, Sulfaquinoxaline, Tylosin, and Virginiamycin.

Why is veterinary oversight necessary? Developing strategies for reducing antimicrobial resistance is critically important for protecting both public and animal health.

Veterinarians are uniquely qualified to determine which specific disease-causing organisms are likely to be present and to determine appropriately timed administration of medication relative to the disease. The decision to use a specific approved drug or combination drug is based on factors such as the mode of antibacterial action, drug distribution in specific tissues, and the duration of effective drug levels at the site of infection.

For more information regarding the VFD you can contact your local vet or your Extension Office.

Jerry Little is County Extension Agent for Agriculture/Natural Resources.