Antimicrobial resistance is a growing threat. It is a true one-health crisis, as human and veterinary healthcare face the same clinical problems, share closely related bacteria and use similar antibiotics. The resistance genes, moreover, are often identical. Inappropriate use of broad-spectrum systemic antibiotics is the single biggest factor selecting for resistance. Responsible use can reduce antibiotic use and the prevalence of resistance without affecting clinical outcomes. However, this requires that veterinarians and animal owners act together. We will look at some of the drivers behind antibiotic use and discuss how to address these. Common reasons for systemic antimicrobial use in dogs and cats include dermatitis, respiratory disease, urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal problems. Most infections involve a dysbiosis of the resident microbiome rather than a primary infection. Failure to manage this appropriately drives repeated antibiotic use and selection for resistance. We’ll discuss how to reduce antibiotic use without compromising clinical outcomes using canine pyoderma as an example.

This webinar will highlight important concepts in renal physiology that have clinical importance in every day veterinary care of dogs and cats. No prior knowledge is presumed. Renal disease occurs commonly in dogs and cats, so that an understanding of underlying physiology and consequently pathophysiology of renal disease is central to the management of these cases. Urine concentration, renal blood tests, electrolyte and water balance will be discussed. Case material will used to illustrate important concepts. At the end of the webinar, participants should have adequate knowledge to understand how the kidney responds to injury and disease.

Supporting clients with a pet approaching the end of life can be challenging for everyone. Learning to recognise what your clients need and how to best deliver it as part of a wider inter-disciplinary team, is often critical to the success of a patient care plan.