Sunday, Nov. 01, 2009

Owners must comply for pet health

As a veterinarian, I rely on the pet owner to comply to at-home care instructions as well as to the proper administration of medications sent home.

Too often, however, a small percentage of what is communicated to the pet owner, while in the exam room, is actually remembered and followed through at home.

I often send written instructions along with brochures that the pet owner can refer to, if questions arise at home. My staff and I attempt to explain everything while the pet owner is still in the office, especially when it comes to the administration of medications. It is important for pet owners to have a full understanding of what medications are being sent home.

Do not be afraid to ask questions in the office. I also encourage clients to call us if questions arise once they are home. If medications or instructions are not carried out properly, a pet may not improve, or they could get worse.

One of the most frustrating situations I deal with is noncompliance of owners with the administration of medications at home. Too often, owners will call or come in for an exam with a similar or an exact problem with their pet and ask if a medication they have a remaining supply of -- and was sent home months ago -- would help. I always give at least a puzzled look in response when I know that the particular medication specifically stated on the label to administer "until all have been given."

This common problem occurs when a pet owner stops giving the medication midway through the prescribed regimen, because their pet seems better. This can cause major problems, especially with the use of antibiotics. Stopping antibiotics before their prescribed regimen dictates can lead to a resurgence of the bacteria in the original location, or worse yet somewhere else. Also, stopping an antibiotic may cause resistance to the antibiotic if one attempts to restart the same antibiotic shortly thereafter or in the future.

Both oral and topical medications should always be sent home with a clearly printed and legible prescription label that gives exact dosing regimens. All medications should be given as directed until all has been administered unless specifically stated on the prescription label to do otherwise.