Research project to develop and pilot approaches to surveillance for antibiotic resistance in companion animals and equines in the UK

This PIN is to highlight that the Veterinary Medicine Directorate (VMD) wishes to undertake research to develop and pilot different approaches to surveillance for antibiotic resistance in companion animals and equines in the UK. The aim of the project will inform representative UK-wide surveillance of antibiotic resistance in commensal bacteria carried by companion animal and equine populations (to include dogs, cats, and horses). The Authority anticipates the Invitation to Tender (ITT) going live week commencing 25 March 2024.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the top global public health threats. While it refers to the ability of any microbe to resist pharmaceutical treatment, this call focuses on antibiotic resistance in bacteria, specifically. Surveillance is essential to detect emerging AMR issues, monitor trends, and identify and assess the impact of interventions. In the UK, AMR surveillance is well established in livestock sectors, with programmes for both representative surveillance in healthy animals entering the food chain, and clinical surveillance conducted on-farm, in place. However, despite the close proximity between companion animals and equines with their owners and handlers, and the potential for AMR transmission between them, AMR surveillance in these sectors is limited.

Monitoring AMR in healthy dogs, cats, and horses is less straightforward than in farmed animals entering the food chain. Different AMR surveillance approaches need to be trialled for the companion animal and equine sectors. The VMD is launching this call for interest to undertake research to explore such approaches. The data collected from this work will provide evidence of AMR within the companion animal and equine sectors in the UK, as well as improving our understanding of AMR transmission and identifying emerging issues. Crucially, this research will inform development of AMR surveillance in these species, and ultimately help achieve the UK's ambitions in the next AMR National Action Plan (2024-2029).

Recognising the significant differences between companion animals and equines, the Authority is considering procuring this requirement in two lots: Lot 1 (cats and dogs) and Lot 2 (horses), with applicants able to apply for lots either separately or together. It is intended that applications for each lot would comprise a single research project, although we will also consider applications for Lot 1 proposing two separate projects, one for each species, provided that synergies and efficiencies between the projects are clearly demonstrated. It is recognised that the complexity of this project may make it suitable for an early-stage researcher or PhD programme.

If you would have any questions on this PIN or would like to register interest, please contact Emily.Hayes@defra.gov.uk.