The College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO) has updated its position on antimicrobial stewardship, reinforcing responsible antimicrobial use as a core professional duty for veterinarians. The revised statement emphasizes prudent prescribing practices to help preserve antimicrobial effectiveness for both animal and human health.

The update, approved at the College Council’s March meeting, highlights antimicrobial stewardship as central to animal welfare and public protection and encourages integration into daily clinical practice. It also places greater emphasis on education, including supporting veterinarians’ access to stewardship resources and tools to help them communicate with clients about antimicrobial use.

The CVO notes its broader One Health commitment, including work on stewardship policy and research into veterinary prescribing behaviours. The updated position, “Responsible Prescribing of Antimicrobial Drugs in Animal Health Care Through Antimicrobial Stewardship,” is available on the CVO website.