Which statement best reflects antimicrobial stewardship in equine practice?

• A. Always use broad-spectrum antibiotics for any infection
• B. Ignore withdrawal times and dosing
• C. Obtain cultures when possible; use targeted therapy; avoid unnecessary broad-spectrum antibiotics; adhere to withdrawal times and prudent dosing
• D. Rely on owner preference for antibiotic choice

Answer: (C)

Antimicrobial stewardship in equine practice means using antibiotics in a way that effectively treats infection while minimizing the development of resistance and preventing drug residues. A core approach is to obtain cultures whenever feasible so you can identify the organism and its susceptibilities, allowing you to tailor therapy rather than guess. Start with an evidence-based choice, but narrow to a targeted, narrow-spectrum agent as soon as culture results are available. Avoid unnecessary broad-spectrum antibiotics because they disrupt normal flora and promote resistance. Also, adhere to proper withdrawal times and dosing—use the correct dose and duration, and comply with withdrawal requirements to prevent drug residues in meat or other regulated contexts. This strategy improves outcomes, reduces adverse effects, and preserves antibiotic effectiveness for future cases. Choices that advocate universal broad-spectrum use, ignore withdrawal times, or let owner preference drive the decision do not fit stewardship principles.