The findings have been released by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance – Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E) as part of its Animal Medicines Amnesty campaign, which runs through November.

 

RUMA CA&E has said that the survey, conducted last month, reveals ‘worrying signs’ about how pet owners viewed animal medicines. By disposing of medicines incorrectly, pet owners risk environmental contamination and antibiotic resistance.

 

Just 26 per cent of pet owners said they would be most likely to dispose of unused and outdated medication correctly, by bring in to their veterinary practice.

 

Meanwhile, 34 per cent of pet owners said they might keep leftover or unwanted medication that was prescribed or purchased for their pet, in case it was needed in future. RUMA CA&E warns that the medication may not be suitable for use, especially since the pet’s health condition may be different.

 

The survey also demonstrated a lack of concern among the pet owning public regarding the risks of incorrectly disposing of medication. While 62 per cent of pet owners were concerned about the impact on the environment, 29 per cent were unconcerned.

 

Of everyone surveyed, 22 per cent said they were ‘unconcerned’ that incorrect disposal could impact how animals and people fight off infections and bacteria in the future. This included six per cent who were ‘not at all concerned’.

 

The statistics come despite the World Health Organisation (WHO) classing antimicrobial resistance as one of the top major global public health threats facing humanity.

 

RUMA CA&E’s Animal Medicines Amnesty, which is sponsored by Zoetis, runs in veterinary practices across the country every November. Veterinary teams are asked to encourage pet owners to return their unwanted pet medications to the practice for proper disposal.

 

Steve Howard, RUMA CA&E secretary general, said: “The veterinary profession is committed to the responsible use of medicines which includes only prescribing them to treat animals when necessary.

 

“Pet owners can play their part in responsible medicine use by following veterinary guidance when using pet medicines, and returning any expired or unused medications to their vet for safe disposal rather than disposing of them in household waste, which can contribute to medicines resistance and cause environmental impacts.”

 

He added: “The ask of practices is straightforward, but the potential collective impact is considerable. By taking part, practices can help turn conversations about responsible medicines use into tangible action, supporting animal health, public health and environmental protection.”