Selecting the Right Medicine

28.3 Selecting the Right Medicine Refer also to Chapter 4. See page 61.

The treatment chosen depends on several things:

 diagnosis  number of animals involved  medicines available  price of medicine  value of the animals  probability that animals will survive and become productive again  ability of the owner or AHA to use the medicines properly  ability of the owner to pay  preferences of the owner The AHA must explain to the owner the treatment options, price, work involved, and likelihood for recovery. Only then can the owner make the best decision, taking into account the situation and the value of the animal.

It is often impossible to give the best or most complete treatment. For example, the best treatment may require daily injections, and this may be impossible for an owner living far away (unless someone nearby can give the injections). Perhaps another medicine must be chosen. Or the owner may not have enough money for full treatment. The AHA must help the owner decide which treatment will be best for each situation.

There may also be certain pressures placed on the AHA. Some farmers expect an AHA to give injections, even if unnecessary! Some medicines, such as antibiotics, may lose their effectiveness when overused or used needlessly! Moreover, medicines cost money and are sometimes in limited supply.