Code of good practice for horse owners launched

THE Code of Good Practice regarding the Responsible Use of Antimicrobials in Horses has been launched.

This is the 8th Code of Good Practice on responsible use of antimicrobials developed by, and for, our animal health sector stakeholders.

Launching the Code, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD said: “Working in partnership, our multidisciplinary equine stakeholders have again come together to produce an excellent resource, for our horse owners and keepers.

“This best practice Code highlights the importance of the responsible use of antimicrobials, such as antibiotics, in order to safeguard their efficacy as much and for as long as possible, for both our human and veterinary patients alike. Importantly, the Code also provides practical, concise advice to support the responsible use of antimicrobials by horse owners and keepers.”

This Code is an output of Ireland’s National Action Plan to address the One Health challenge of antimicrobial resistance (iNAP ). Highlighting the wide-ranging implications, if AMR is not effectively addressed, the Minister commented:

“AMR is a global threat - a threat to our health, our animal’s health, our shared environment and ultimately our agri-industry. Not only do we need to ensure the responsible use of antimicrobials, all animal owners need to do what they can to promote their animal’s health and reduce the risk of disease. Disease prevention through enhanced biosecurity and optimal animal health management are key measures to reduce the need to use antimicrobials, such as antibiotics. This Code clearly outlines these measures for our horse owners.”

Minister McConalogue acknowledged the contribution of all members of the iNAP Animal Health Implementation Committee, specifically those who collaborated and provided leadership in the development of this Code for horse owners: “I wish to sincerely thank our equine health stakeholders, specifically veterinary practitioners and researchers for their enthusiasm, commitment, time and expertise, all generously given, to produce this document. AMR is a complex, global issue-it is only by working together, using a One Health approach, that we can successfully achieve our objectives in tackling AMR.”

The Code also highlights the important stewardship role that equine veterinary practitioners play in reducing the use of antimicrobials.

Further information on AMR is available on the joint Department of Health and Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine AMR webpage: www.gov.ie/amr.