Responsible use of antibiotics in dairy practice

Resistance in antibiotics and their use in food producing animals are coming under greater scrutiny. This papers looks at the way in which these are used in the UK and some of the treatment dilemmas that are faced by veterinarians and farmers. Treatment of clinical mastitis and use of dry cow therapy make up the majority of antibiotic use in dairy cows. Training of the end user is discussed along with a US quality assurance protocol to ensure compliance and to minimise the risk of residues entering the food chain.