Canine gastrointestinal parasites perceptions, practices, and behaviours: A survey of dog owners in Australia

• DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100587
• Publication Date: 2023-06-16T16:34:15Z
• Authors: Luca Massetti; Rebecca J. Traub; Louise Rae; Vito Colella; Lara Marwedel; Phillip McDonagh; Anke Wiethoelter
• Keywords: Deworming; Animal-Assisted Therapy; Companion animal; HUBzero

Many species of canine gastrointestinal (GI) parasites are known to be zoonotic meaning that dog owners' management and practices key preventing exposure humans dogs as well contamination the environment. As Australia has one highest rates pet ownership in world, we administered an online questionnaire owners across nation assess their perceptions, practices, behaviours towards GI parasites. Descriptive analysis was performed summarise perceptions practices. Factors associated with suitability parasiticide treatments applied were investigated using uni- multivariable ordinal regression. Just over a half considered very or extremely important for dog's health (59%) less than human (46%). Although majority stated they deworm (90%), only 28% followed best practice guidelines, i.e. monthly prophylactic treatment all-year round. A large proportion respondent at inappropriate frequency (48%) did not treat all (24%). Attending vet visits least once year every six months having comfortable prosperous financial position significantly following deworming prophylaxis guidelines. This study demonstrates is complying regarding control potentially exposing themselves risk infections. Veterinarians called implement owner's education, raise awareness on threats parasitic diseases pose both finally, encourage them follow