The Ballet

By Dale Sandlin

By June 11, 2023, drug manufacturers will be required to relabel these antibiotics, requiring a prescription from a veterinarian. After this time, a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) will be a required step that all livestock producers will need in order to secure these antibiotics. The good news for cattle producers is that many of us already have this relationship in place, as it is required to secure products such as Multimin and other drugs used in cattle production.

To help our members locate a food-animal veterinarian in their area, the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association has developed a “Vet Locator” feature on their website. To use it, go to www.gvma.net and, under the “Resources” tab at the top of the page, select “Online Directory.” Once on the page, click on the “Find a Vet” button, and enter your location and the type of services that you are looking for.

Also, take advantage of this window of opportunity to contact a food-animal veterinarian, if you don’t have a relationship already, and invite them to come and visit your operation. Explain what your goals are; show them your herd and animal health records, so that they can make recommendations to improve your operation; and establish a VCPR, which should make securing these antibiotics much easier when they are needed to treat your cattle.

The next time that you work around the chute, take notice of the work-flow – and enjoy when things are quiet and harmonious, and everyone knows their role. If it’s not quiet, take a look at the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) protocols to see where there may be room for improvement. Just remember: I’m in no way suggesting that a tutu or toe shoes are appropriate work wear at this type of ballet.