Yes, this is yet another article about the upcoming Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) Rules. By now some of you are probably tired of hearing about them, while others may need more information. As a refresher, here’s a quick rundown on the history of these rules:

Please understand that the VFD rules ONLY apply to medically important antibiotics administered via feed or water. These rules will NOT apply to injectable forms, drenches, etc. Also, please note that VFD antibiotics can only be written for a valid feed drug claim. Extra-label usage is strictly prohibited. For instance, your vet cannot write a VFD utilizing chlortetracycline for pinkeye or footrot prevention.

You may have already started seeing the affected medicated product labels with the new VFD text. In short, the new labels will indicate that the product requires a VFD in order to be purchased or used. You can still use the product even if you don’t have a VFD right now. However, this changes on January 1, 2017 when enforcement begins. The feed industry needs this extra time to get new labels printed and into the distribution chain in time for January 1 so that is why you are seeing them early.

Below is a check list of questions for you, your veterinarian and feed representative to start discussing and begin forming plans on how to handle:

Use the questions above to start a dialogue with your feed store representatives and your veterinarian about the new VFD rules. Educate yourself on which drugs that you already use will be affected by these regulations. Get a plan in place now so that you will be prepared for January. Other sources of information include Kansas State’s free educational module at www.beefcattleinstitute.org/vfd-mod/  and FDA’s site at www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/DevelopmentApprovalProcess/ucm071807.htm. 

For more info about the SWEETLIX^® line of supplement products for cattle or the new VFD rules, visit www.sweetlix.com.