Medication safety education: more than just a human concern?

The medication misuse epidemic continues to be a major concern for both human and veterinary health-care providers. Medication misuse of veterinary prescribed drugs is contributing to the public health crisis. Education of students regarding appropriate prescribing, communication with clients about medication storage, recognition of signs of vet shopping and animal abuse, and appropriate pain management strategies are essential steps for ensuring our students are prepared for the world that awaits them outside the halls of academic veterinary medicine. This is the moment where veterinarians can make a difference in the lives of patients, students, and the public health.