Dave Armstrong, Zoetis: Targeted livestock therapy at the right time is key

Dairy Global had the pleasure of talking with Dave Armstrong, global director, Commercial and Medical Lead Livestock Diagnostics, Global Commercial Development at Zoetis Inc. In this interview, Armstrong discusses reduced antimicrobial use and mastitis, strides made in managing livestock disease and the progress seen with treatment and prevention plans on-farm.

He also discusses what drives changes in the dairy sector, genetic improvements in animals and the progress that has been made in the UK in terms of lower antibiotic use and how producers can add value throughout the chain by treating the right animals with the right product. “We are making big strides…we can reduce antimicrobial usage and still have a high-quality product,” he says.

He also dives into the topic of mastitis and how early treatment can have a major impact on-farm. Vetscan Mastigram by Zoetis is a rapid and first on-farm mastitis diagnostic which was recently launched and has been dubbed a game-changer in the sector.

In reference to this diagnostic, Armstrong highlights advantages like having fewer repeat cases, less chronic mastitis in the dairy herd, a more targeted approach in livestock treatment, and other factors which include reduced waste milk and a drive towards a One Health approach.

Watch the video below.