1. Read the label carefully – labeling directions change frequently.
2. Use drugs only in animal species listed on the label – drugs used in other species may cause adverse reactions, illegal residues, and possible animal deaths.
3. Use the proper dose for the species and size of animal to be treated – overdosing can cause illegal residues.
4. Calculate pre-slaughter drug withdrawal times accurately – determine pre-slaughter withdrawal and milk discard times from the latest drug administration.
5. Use the correct route of administration – giving drugs incorrectly can lead to drug ineffectiveness, adverse reactions, illegal residues, and possible animal deaths.
6. Do not “double dose” – use of the same drug in the feed and by injection can cause illegal residues.
7. Select needle size and injection sites carefully, if injections are necessary – misuse can lead to tissue damage, reduced effectiveness, and/or illegal residues.
8. Allow proper withdrawal times for feed containing drugs – during the withdrawal time ensure that storage bins and feed are completely free of medicated feed and feed only drug-free feed or illegal residues may result.
9. Keep accurate records of drugs used and animals dosed – poor records can be costly if drug residue violations occur.
10. Seek the advice of your veterinarian – your records will allow him/her to provide safer and more effective treatment and save you money by preventing illegal residues.

For a complete explanation of all the precautions you need to take in using any particular drug or feed medication, first consult the drug label or feed tag. If you have any questions about the proper use of any drugs, see your veterinarian.

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