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Veterinarians look at the big picture

A veterinarian who specializes in swine health says she reviews all aspects of a hog operation when evaluating livestock. Dr. Michelle Sprague is Director of Sow Health at AMVC Veterinary Services in Iowa.

“We make sure that the environment is appropriate, that the temperature is correct, that humidity levels are low and the pigs are comfortable. We make sure vaccination and bio-security protocols are in place. Because at the end of the day comfortable pigs have less stress and if pigs are not stressed, they’re less susceptible to disease,” says Sprague.

Sprague says she supports rules like the Veterinary Feed Directive, which ensure antibiotics are used properly on livestock operations.

“Regardless if we use antibiotics for prevention or for treatment of disease all the same rules apply. The prescription must be written by a veterinarian. That veterinarian must have seen the pigs, understand the farm and the disease risks that are present and be available for follow-up care” says Sprague.

Sprague says vets and producers are looking to maximize the impact of antibiotic use but also to minimize use as much as possible.

Sprague spoke during a panel on antibiotic use at the 2017 Pork Forum in Atlanta.