The Process May Be New, But The Idea Is The Same - Observations From NCBA's Chief Vet On VFD

It has now been more than 50 days since the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) took effect at the beginning of this year. Radio Oklahoma Ag Network Farm Director Ron Hays caught up with Chief Veterinarian for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Dr. Kathy Simmons recently for her take on the situation. According to her observations, the transition seems to be going fairly well thus far.

“Certainly, it’s been a change in how we obtain antimicrobial agents in feed,” she said, referring to the Food & Drug Administration’s industry guidelines #209 and #213. “The importance of having a working relationship with a veterinarian, a familiarity of the veterinarian with your herd and the ability to prescribe for that herd, is essential.”