A move to eliminate antibiotic use in animals by 2030 has been slammed by some sectors of the industry but New Zealand Veterinary Association president Dr Steve Merchant says it is possible.
"With sharply increasing levels of resistance to antibiotics worldwide, we want animals and, by extension, humans to enter the 'post-antibiotic' era as safely as possible," Dr Merchant said.
"This is a significant undertaking, requiring considerable teamwork and commitment from the veterinary profession, working with the medical, scientific, government and relevant primary industry sectors."
But he described the prize as "enormous" for New Zealand and the world.
"Given the wide acceptance that the future for antibiotics is limited, and the close links between animals, humans and the environment we share, achieving this goal is essential."
"New Zealand is well suited to this challenge; given our size, proximity of the various specialties and relevant industry sectors and already low use of antibiotics."
However, Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty dairy chairman Steve Bailey said he would be concerned about animal welfare.
He would not like to see farmers regulated but educated about antibiotic use, he said.
"We need science and medicines to support us. I think it will be a step back in the dark ages and a step back in time, I am not sure we can do it."
This is a significant undertaking, requiring considerable teamwork and commitment from the veterinary profession
In the old days cows were getting culled left right and centre if they had black mastitis and it was a horrible disease, he said. Tauranga Vets veterinary Phil Rennie said the task was ambitious. "It's an intention, it is a goal."
About the NZVA:
The New Zealand Veterinary Association is the only membership association representing New Zealand Veterinarians.
It has more than 2000 members and is a voice for veterinarians working in all disciplines.
Antibiotics:
Antibiotics have improved the quality of our lives beyond measure.
Less than 100 years on from their discovery, their misuse and increasing antibiotic resistance poses a major risk to animal and human health, limiting treatment options and increasing the risk of untreatable infections. - Dr Steve Merchant