Abstract

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is the ability of a microbe to resist the effects of medication which was previously used to treat them. Veterinary pharmaceuticals include a wide range of anti-infectives and additives in the use for animal health, nutrition, reproduction, and productivity. The introduction of penicillin in 1943 and other antibiotics thereafter provided remedies for many infections in humans and animals, reducing mortality and productivity losses. Since then, a repertoire of antibiotics and antimicrobials has been introduced as chemotherapeutics and prophylaxis. This success notwithstanding, many pathogens of consequences are no longer susceptible owing to emergence of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) microorganisms. This has made treatment of infectious diseases less effective. Beside spontaneous emergence of mutant microorganisms, scientists are wary of AMR caused by intensive use of antimicrobials in humans and animals, sometimes in subtherapeutic doses as preventive medicine. In developing countries, environmental exposure and persistent use of antibiotics in food animals may leave residues in the food chain. In addition to that, the consequences include development of antibiotic resistance are occurred. Alternatives to growth-promoting and prophylactic uses of antimicrobials in agriculture include improved management practices, wider use of vaccines, and introduction of probiotics. Monitoring programs, prudent use guidelines, and educational campaigns provide approaches to minimize the further development of antimicrobial resistance. In this manuscript, antimicrobial resistance in veterinary practices and sequel in the emergence, the current status and possible mitigation strategies to tackle antimicrobial resistance have reviewed.