Keeping Records and Writing Prescriptions

28.3.1 Keeping Records and Writing Prescriptions It is important to keep a notebook with information regarding animals examined and treatments given. This information will be useful for sharing with other AHAs and veterinary doctors regarding your work and the most common animal health diseases in your area.

In addition, it is important to write down a “prescription” so that medicine is given in the proper manner, at the proper time, and to the proper animal. Also, when sending an owner to purchase medicine in the market, a prescription is necessary so that the correct medicine is purchased.

Prescription Information and information for notebook:

1. Owner’s name.

1. Date.

1. Name of medicine.

1. Animal to which it is given (age, breed, etc.).

1. Illness (mention main symptoms, temperature, respiration, etc.).

1. Dose (amount to be given).

1. How often to give the medicine.

1. For how many days should the medicine be given.

1. How to give the medicine.

1. Precautions.

1. For your own records: record whether the animal recovered and any other comments such as cost of the medicine, fees charged, etc.

For all owners, even those who can read and write, you must explain the following information. If you doubt whether they understand or not, then have them repeat it back to you: Dose (amount to be given). How often to give it. For how long. How to give it. Explain the precautions (if any).