In order to reduce antibiotics use in the herd, it is important to determine the reason for antibiotic use, the amount of use, and the method of administration.
Antibiotics should be used when the disease is correctly diagnosed and the use of antibiotics is necessary. Antibiotics should be used correctly and for the appropriate duration.
There are many ways in which the number of animals that use antibiotics can be reduced. The most common method is to follow biosecurity plans, which should also include nutritional management, high quality food, and compliance with food and water hygiene to minimize contact with contamination.
Biosecurity:
A biosecurity plan should be provided by the farm management or veterinarian. It is essential for all employees and visitors to follow it. Each entry and exit to the farm should be defined in accordance with the principles, and in this way the source of possible contamination in the herd can be identified.
Steps can also be taken to reduce the risk of disease. For example, staff should not come into contact with any species of bird before entering the work area. Appropriate personal protective equipment should be provided for all staff and hygiene measures such as handwashing facilities and handwashing facilities should be provided. Staff should be showered before entering the farm and after leaving the farm.
Management:
Preventing disease challenges by improving management is a key element in the success of a strategy to reduce antibiotic use.
Simple husbandry techniques that meet the needs and requirements of the bird can also improve performance and health.
For example, adequate stocking density and ventilation are essential, as are adequate food, water and sanitary bedding. In addition, wild birds and small mammals can spread disease, so their presence on the farm should be minimized and preventative systems should be considered.
An appropriate vaccination program is very effective in minimizing the need for antibiotics in a prevention and control program.
Finally, it is important for producers to regularly monitor feed, environment, and indeed their own birds for disease. All of these programs should be reviewed regularly and their timing and effectiveness evaluated. Also, rapid awareness of disease in the flock, diagnosis, and treatment of sick animals can reduce the dependence on antibiotics in the flock.
Ensuring feed quality:
Food is a major source of insect attraction and can be contaminated by a range of pathogens. There are many ways to ensure that feed is of high quality and free from pathogens, mycotoxins, moulds and bacteria. Preventing contamination of raw materials with highly pathogenic bacteria will result in poultry growing with maximum genetic potential and minimum antibiotic requirements.
In addition to feed, water quality must also be considered. Water consumption has a direct impact on feed consumption and therefore should be of the highest possible quality. Poultry water consumption should be carefully monitored as poor water quality is a major issue. Groundwater sources should be tested regularly to ensure adequate levels of salts. Water storage and water supply pipes should also be checked regularly.
Whenever antibiotic use is reviewed and reduced, other natural feed additives and alternatives should be reviewed and used. There are a variety of products that are tailored to the animal’s biology to stimulate poultry growth in a system that reduces antibiotic use.
Source: www.feedstrategy.com
