RCVS Knowledge to launch new VetTeamAMR initiative

AMR poses a serious risk to both humans and animals. RCVS Knowledge is working alongside veterinary organisations and practices to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.

Through VetTeamAMR, we will offer free, evidence-based resources and tools to support responsible antimicrobial use by equine, companion animal and farm teams.

VetTeamAMR will launch for companion animal teams at a free online event on Tuesday 20 June 2023 at 7:00 pm (BST). The event is open to all to attend, and will include talks from:

• Fergus Allerton, who will provide a brief overview of antimicrobial use in companion animals in the UK and Europe.
• Scott Weese, who will discuss antimicrobial resistance in companion animals.
• Anette Loeffler, who will highlight opportunities for responsible use of antimicrobials in animals with skin disease.
• Kelly Blacklock, who will discuss antimicrobial stewardship in surgery.
• VetTeamAMR Clinical Leads, Angela Rayner, David Singleton and Tim Nuttall, will introduce our free support in this area, including a preview of the new national auditing tool and learning platform.

The VetTeamAMR Antimicrobial Audit Tool is designed to support continuous improvements in national antimicrobial stewardship efforts and the VetTeamAMR Learning Platform includes need-to-know information for responsible prescribing practises for the whole practice team.

The companion animal materials complement the equine and farm animal resources which are already on offer. VetTeamAMR for equine teams launched earlier this month with free learning materials and an equine national auditing tool. Farm Vet Champions launched in 2021 and is already successfully supporting veterinary teams to improve antimicrobial stewardship in the farm sector, providing free CPD, a SMART goals tool, and the ability to join a network of other veterinary professionals working together towards responsible use of antimicrobials in the farm sector.

Part funded by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), VetTeamAMR brings together a community of veterinary teams and stakeholders from companion, equine and farm backgrounds, to unite and implement material changes to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on a national scale. Working alongside expert veterinary professionals, VetTeamAMR has been created for veterinary professionals, by veterinary professionals.

Chris Gush, Executive Director at RCVS Knowledge said, “AMR is a hugely important issue for us at RCVS Knowledge and we are pleased to be able to provide veterinary teams with free tools and resources to support the responsible use of antimicrobials.

“Antibiotics remain the primary treatment for potentially fatal bacterial infections. Yet inappropriate use of antibiotics has led to resistance that has created a global animal and human health emergency.”.

“With busy veterinary practices in mind, we have worked alongside veterinary experts to create accessible and user-friendly VetTeamAMR tools and resources and we encourage all UK veterinary practices to get involved.”

As part of the VetTeamAMR launch, you can join the free event featuring expert speakers, who will discuss critical topics related to antimicrobial resistance in companion animal practice, and learn more about how VetTeamAMR can benefit your team.