WHY THE CHANGE

It is important to understand that bees are obligate communal animals.  They cannot live on their own for any length of time.  They must live in a group of bees, called a hive.  A hive is considered a "superorganism". 

When discussing bee medicine, the superorganism is treated, not the individual bee.

The section on Bee Diseases explores the most common ailments that affect bees today as well as management practices to prevent and treat them.  None of the diseases require a veterinary prescription with the exception of foulbrood.

​

Veterinarians have been called to assist in protecting our Medically Important Antibiotics (MIAs).  Antibiotic resistance has become a real concern in the world, and it is up to all of us to preserve their effectiveness.  Oxytetracycline is one such antibiotic.  A beekeeper used to be able to purchase this antibiotic from a beekeeping supply store.  However, a prescription is now required.  Veterinarians need to oversee the treatment of each hive (indirectly) so that the antibiotic is used correctly, at the right dose and for the appropriate duration of treatment.

​

The CVO has set out very specific guidelines for veterinarians to follow.  The medication cannot just be sold.  A valid VCPR (Veterinarian Client Patient Relationship) is required.  In this case, the veterinarian is Dr. Fabio Tarable at FABS, the client is you (the beekeeper) and the patient is/are the hive(s) owned by the beekeeper.

​

Each year, FABS needs to communicate with each beekeeper to confirm and document how many hives they have, where they are located and that they are registered with OMAFRA.

Once a file has been set up and verified, a personalized treatment plan will be prepared and the medication dispensed to each beekeeper.

​

Dr. Fabio Tarable is in a unique position to be able to assist the beekeeping community because he understands both the veterinary and the apiculture needs.  Traditionally, antibiotics are used in medicine to TREAT infections.  In beekeeping, antibiotics are used to PREVENT infection.  The prescriptions will be dispensed already premixed and ready to treat each hive.  You will have the choice of either having the treatment shipped to you, or arrangements can be made to pick up the prescription at the beekeeping supply store of your choice.

​

To become a client of Fabulous Acres Mobile Bee Services, submit the form below.  Once your information is received, we will contact you with instructions on how to access our client only ordering area.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Fabio Tarable.  He is eager to be able to help you and your hives thrive.