CVS sets strengthened antibiotic prescribing benchmark as part of commitment to responsible antimicrobial stewardship
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CVS has announced a major step forward in its antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programme, setting a new internal benchmark that no more than 2% of companion animal consultations should result in an antibiotic prescription.

This strengthened benchmark reflects both the organisation’s progress to date and its commitment to ensuring antibiotics remain effective for the animals and communities that depend on them.

Antibiotics remain among the most valuable tools available to veterinary teams, but their effectiveness is increasingly threatened by antimicrobial resistance.

CVS has been working since 2021 to build a comprehensive stewardship framework in its companion animal practices that supports responsible prescribing, encourages clinical reflection and safeguards the long‑term availability of these vital medicines. The decision to adopt a more ambitious 2% benchmark demonstrates a clear intention to continue raising standards across the organisation.

A key component of CVS’ progress has been the consistent use of prescribing data to support reflective practice. Throughout 2025, clinical teams continued to receive regular insight into their prescribing patterns, enabling them to review decision‑making, understand variation and engage in informed discussions about appropriate use. This data-led approach ensures that the prescribing of antibiotics remains deliberate, justified and aligned with best practice.

Alongside providing meaningful insight, CVS has invested heavily in training, support and structured quality improvement. In the second half of 2025, many practices prepared to take part in Prescribing with Purpose, a clinical improvement project which began in January 2026. This project helps teams to look at their individual and team prescribing behaviours and gives them a clear method, supported by guidance, examples and coaching, to drive measurable improvement. Peer learning has been central to this work, with practices sharing experiences and learning from colleagues across the country.

The organisation’s stewardship efforts extend beyond clinical teams. Collaboration between procurement, product management, laboratories and research has ensured a coordinated and evidence‑informed approach to antimicrobial use. This cross‑organisational commitment has helped to embed stewardship as a routine part of CVS’ operational and clinical culture.

Angela Rayner, Director of Quality Improvement at CVS, said:

“Antimicrobial resistance remains one of the most significant challenges facing both human and animal health. By setting a 2% prescribing benchmark, we are strengthening our commitment to responsible antibiotic use and supporting our teams to continue delivering safe, effective, evidence‑based care. This ambition reflects the dedication of our colleagues and the progress we have achieved together.”
CVS Group operates across small animal, farm animal, equine and laboratories, with over 500 veterinary practices and referral centres in the UK and Australia. CVS has invested £140.5 million in its sites, facilities, equipment and technology since the start of 2023, in addition to providing industry leading training and support, to give the best possible care to animals.