Vet Sustain Launches New Resources to Support Responsible Parasiticide Prescribing in Small Animal Practice
The Parasiticide Subgroup of Vet Sustain's Greener Veterinary Practice Working Group has developed a new suite of resources to equip veterinary professionals with the evidence, tools and knowledge they need to make informed, responsible prescribing decisions around parasiticides for pets.
Vet Sustain
Parasiticides play a vital role in safeguarding the health and welfare of companion animals, but increasing evidence shows that these medicines can have harmful effects on biodiversity, water quality and wider ecosystems if used inappropriately. These new resources provide veterinary professionals with practical, evidence-based guidance to help balance the need for disease prevention and treatment with the responsibility to reduce environmental harm.
Developed by a cross-disciplinary team of experts from within our Greener Veterinary Practice Working Group, the resources support veterinary professionals in:
Evidence-based decision making – ensuring parasiticides are prescribed only when appropriate, based on the best available science.
Sustainable treatment planning – embedding responsible prescribing into preventative healthcare plans while prioritising animal health and welfare.
Environmental protection – raising awareness of the ecological risks associated with parasiticide use, and offering strategies to mitigate impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems.
Dr Nicole Dyer, Chair of the Vet Sustain Greener Veterinary Practice Working Group, said:
"As a profession, we have a duty not only to protect the health and welfare of the animals in our care, but also to safeguard the environment we all share. These resources empower veterinary teams to make prescribing decisions that are both clinically robust and environmentally responsible."
The launch marks a significant step forward in promoting One Health principles across veterinary practice, recognising the interconnectedness of animal, human and environmental health.
Our new resources are available to download now using the links below:
Canine Parasite Risk Assessment Tool
Feline Parasite Risk Assessment Tool
The 4Rs of Responsible Prescribing of Pet Parasiticides
Responsible Parasiticide Use in Dogs and Cats in the UK Frequently Asked Questions
The Evidence for Environmental Contamination with Parasiticides
Discussing the Prescription of Parasiticides in your Practice Meeting Template