Veterinary pharmaceuticals such as antibiotics, parasiticides, anaesthetics and related compounds are used to promote the health of livestock, but substantial fractions of these chemicals are excreted and subsequently enter the environment. In Switzerland, little is currently known about pharmaceutical residues in manure and how these compounds dissipate in agricultural soils and possibly also reach surface waters. This project therefore investigates the occurrence, transformation and fate of commonly administered veterinary drugs in animal manure, agricultural soils and drainage water. The results will contribute to shaping agricultural practice by providing information on which factors and measures can reduce the environmental impact of veterinary pharmaceuticals in animal husbandry.