The new guidance requires that a physical examination of the pet has to be performed every time any antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, and antiparasitics are prescribed. This includes topical preparations such as ear and eye drops, and all prescription flea/worm/tick products.

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The guidance is an important step towards ensuring responsible antimicrobial use and reducing the veterinary impact on the wider issues of global antibiotic resistance and decline of insect populations.