Abstract:
The use of antibiotics in dairy farming plays a crucial role in maintaining animal health and productivity. However, growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have driven regulatory reforms and shifts in on‑farm antibiotic management in recent years. This study assessed current antibiotic usage patterns, animal health management practices, and antimicrobial stewardship among Washington State dairy farms. A structured questionnaire was emailed to 190 licensed dairy farms in Washington State (WSDA list), with reminder calls to boost participation. 24 farms (12.6%) responded, representing herd sizes from fewer than 25 animals to more than 1,000. Data were analyzed in R using descriptive statistics to quantify practices and Chi‑square tests to explore associations between producer roles and antibiotic awareness. Therapeutic use of cephalosporins (e.g., ceftiofur) and penicillins dominates, with non‑therapeutic applications (medicated milk replacers, feed top‑dressing) now nearly eliminated. Routine health checks (88 %), glove use (75 %), and handwashing (67 %) are widespread. One‑third of farms employ daily cleaning, grooming, and footbaths; 25 % test colostrum immunoglobulins (up from 8 % in 2003). Although 86 % screen new purchases for diseases (BVD, Johne’s, etc.), only 29 % quarantine arrivals for the recommended 14–28 days. On AMR Awareness, fifty‑eight percent report high knowledge of antibiotic resistance and 62.5 % correctly define it (vs. < 40 % in 2005). Seventy‑five percent see resistant infections as a herd threat; 59 % recognize human‑health impacts. Yet 29 % fear higher mortality without prophylactic antibiotics. Forty‑five percent rely on internet resources; 33 % attend extension meetings; others use journals or newsletters, indicating a hybrid digital/traditional outreach landscape. The findings of this study underscore a notable evolution in antibiotic management and preventive health strategies among dairy farms in Washington State. The adoption of targeted therapeutic antibiotic use—especially cephalosporins and penicillins for conditions like mastitis and respiratory disease—signals a clear departure from non-therapeutic applications such as medicated milk replacers and feed top-dressing. These results support a theoretical framework in which informed attitudes, producer roles, and farm resources collectively shape antibiotic stewardship behavior. Notably, producers demonstrating higher awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) also exhibited more rigorous hygiene practices and narrower antibiotic use, reinforcing behavior-change models that link knowledge acquisition with practical decision-making. In conclusion, Washington State dairy farms have made notable progress toward responsible antibiotic stewardship embracing precision therapy, strengthening hygiene, and increasing AMR awareness. Remaining gaps in quarantine practices and persistent reliance on prophylactic antibiotics highlight areas for targeted extension and research. A blended outreach model, combining digital and in‑person methods, alongside practical tools (e.g. quarantine guidelines, colostrum‑testing protocols), will be key to sustaining improvements in animal health, farm productivity, and public health protection.