Project Abstract

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns in Canine Urinary Tract Infections This project aims to investigate the prevalence and patterns of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial isolates from canine urinary tract infections (UTIs). Urinary tract infections are a common health concern in companion animals, and understanding the antimicrobial resistance landscape is crucial for effective treatment and management of these infections. Canine UTIs are often caused by a variety of bacterial pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and Proteus spp. Inappropriate or excessive use of antimicrobial agents in both human and veterinary medicine has contributed to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial-resistant strains, posing significant challenges to effective treatment options. This project aims to address this critical issue by providing comprehensive data on the antimicrobial resistance patterns of bacterial isolates from canine UTIs. The study will involve the collection of urine samples from dogs presenting with clinical signs of UTIs at participating veterinary clinics. The samples will be cultured, and bacterial isolates will be identified using standard microbiological techniques. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing will be performed on the isolated bacteria to determine their resistance profiles against a panel of commonly used antimicrobial agents. The data collected will be analyzed to determine the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among the identified bacterial species. The resistance patterns will be examined in relation to factors such as geographic location, breed, age, and previous antimicrobial exposure. This information will help identify the most prevalent resistant strains and provide insights into the potential drivers of antimicrobial resistance in canine UTIs. The findings of this project will have significant implications for the veterinary community. By understanding the current state of antimicrobial resistance, veterinarians can make informed decisions regarding the selection of appropriate antimicrobial therapies, potentially reducing the development and spread of resistant strains. Additionally, the data generated can guide the development of antimicrobial stewardship programs and inform the implementation of preventive measures, such as improved infection control protocols and the prudent use of antimicrobials in veterinary practice. Furthermore, the project's findings may have broader implications for public health. Companion animals can serve as reservoirs for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, which can potentially be transmitted to humans through direct contact or environmental contamination. By studying the antimicrobial resistance patterns in canine UTIs, this project may contribute to a better understanding of the interplay between animal and human health in the context of antimicrobial resistance. In conclusion, this project on the evaluation of antimicrobial resistance patterns in canine urinary tract infections is a crucial step in addressing the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance in veterinary medicine. The outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights to veterinary practitioners, researchers, and policymakers, ultimately aiming to improve the management and prevention of antimicrobial-resistant infections in companion animals.

Project Overview