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Hardwick JL, Ahern BJ, Franklin SH. Stakeholder perceptions of thoroughbred yearling sales endoscopy in Australia: can we do better? Aust Vet J 2024; 102:353-361. [PMID: 38590275 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify thoroughbred industry stakeholders' views on the yearling sales endoscopy in Australia. DESIGN Semi-structured qualitative group interviews with equine veterinarians, thoroughbred breeders and yearling purchasers. METHODS Twenty-nine experienced thoroughbred industry stakeholders participated in online focus groups: (1) equine veterinarians involved in yearling endoscopy; (2) thoroughbred breeders; and (3) yearling buyers. The focus groups were audio and video recorded and digital whiteboards were available. Data was transcribed, live-coded and analysed thematically. RESULTS The main themes identified included the uncertainty surrounding the relationship between yearling laryngeal function and future performance, especially the significance of yearlings with grade 3 out of 5 laryngeal function; interobserver variability in the laryngeal function grade assigned by veterinarians to the same endoscopic exam; and the presence of intra-horse variability in laryngeal function over different time points. DISCUSSION Stakeholders raised multiple concerns about the current yearling sales endoscopy process in Australia. Recommendations to address these concerns include further investigation into the race performance of yearlings identified with grade 3 laryngeal function; training of veterinarians to reduce inter-observer variability; and the need to determine the most appropriate grading system to use in yearlings. Future research should evaluate the significance of intra-horse variability in a yearling population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Hardwick
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - B J Ahern
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Equine Specialist Hospital, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - S H Franklin
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
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Nankervis K, MacKechnie-Guire R, Maddock C, Pyatt A. Experiences of Interdisciplinary Working from the Perspective of the Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:559. [PMID: 38396527 PMCID: PMC10886140 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Horse owners seek the advice and support of a number of equestrian professionals in carrying out their duty of care for their animal. In some instances, these professionals form a multi-disciplinary team (MDT). The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of the Society of Master Saddlers' qualified saddle fitters (SMSQSFs) working with other professionals and to understand the nature of inter-disciplinary working from an SMSQSF perspective. Semi-structured, one-to-one online interviews with fourteen SMSQSFs were completed. Areas explored included the nature of the participant's client base; the frequency and nature of their interactions with other professionals; their perceptions of horse owner expectations of an MDT approach; and any benefits, challenges, and barriers to an MDT approach within an equestrian setting. Interviews were video and audio recorded (MS Teams), transcribed verbatim (Otter ai), and imported into qualitative data analysis software (NVivo, version 12). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Six themes were identified: (1) effective communication; (2) multidisciplinary expectations; (3) horse welfare; (4) professionalism; (5) relationships; (6) working together. Communication was recognised as a crucial component of an effective MDT. Most participants valued and desired an MDT approach. They felt they had a key role to play within the equestrian MDT, not only in the prevention of deterioration in horse welfare but also in improving the functionality and performance of the horse-rider partnership. Effective MDT working was also seen as having benefits to SMSQSFs and other professional stakeholders alike, although time and financial constraints were identified as barriers to MTD working. The role of the horse owner within the MDT was unclear and potentially complex, and this and other factors such as the professional identity of the SMSQSF, personal relationships, and input from others outside of the MDT team were identified as challenges to effective MDT working. This present study found that SMSQSFs experience similar benefits and challenges to an MDT approach as seen in human healthcare settings. The role of the horse owner, communication, and professional recognition are indicated as pivotal to MDT effectiveness in achieving optimal saddle fit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Nankervis
- Equine Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK; (R.M.-G.); (C.M.)
| | | | - Christy Maddock
- Equine Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK; (R.M.-G.); (C.M.)
| | - Alison Pyatt
- International Office, Veterinary Medicines Directorate, Addlestone KT15 3LS, UK;
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Earnshaw N, Anderson N, Mackay J, Parker M. The health of working dogs in conservation in Africa. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1179278. [PMID: 37533460 PMCID: PMC10390733 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1179278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dogs are increasingly being employed for conservation purposes worldwide. In Africa, they work in challenging environments with unique health risks which have not been investigated until now. Methods To understand the health challenges faced by the dogs, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants from 14 organisations that used working dogs in their conservation programmes. The data was qualitatively analysed by thematic analysis. Results Five themes were generated. Three affective themes influenced how participants responded to the challenges associated with having a successful conservation dog programme. A strong handler-dog attachment, proficient handler training, and the acknowledgement of the challenging environment were pivotal to maintaining dog health. Two themes related to the difficulties in managing these programmes and how veterinary support interacts with the management choices being made. Discussion To have healthy conservation dogs, current and future programmes should focus on fostering the handler-dog relationship and provide continuous handler training. The management of conservation dogs' health should adopt an evidence-based approach. Future research should focus on areas where the evidence base is lacking, particularly in the areas of prevention and treatment of African canine trypanosomiasis. Programmes should develop a good working relationship with a veterinarian that has access to evidence-based veterinary medical information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Earnshaw
- Department of Conservation Medicine, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Anderson
- Department of Conservation Medicine, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jill Mackay
- Department of Veterinary Medical Education, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Parker
- The Center for Large Landscape Conservation, Bozeman, MT, United States
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Ashall V. Reducing Moral Stress in Veterinary Teams? Evaluating the Use of Ethical Discussion Groups in Charity Veterinary Hospitals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13101662. [PMID: 37238091 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examines experiences of veterinary moral stress in charity veterinary practice and qualitatively evaluates the role of ethical discussion in reducing veterinary moral stress. Results are drawn from a thematic data analysis of 9 focus groups and 15 individual interviews with veterinary team members from 3 UK charity veterinary hospitals. Moral stress is described as an everyday experience by participants and is caused by uncertainty about their ability to fulfill their ethical obligations. Moral stress is shown to be cumulative and can interact with other forms of stress. Distinct practical and relational barriers to ethical action are identified and proposed as contributors to moral stress, and different team members experience different barriers within their roles. The potential impact of moral stress on team members' quality of life and mental health is highlighted. Results show that regular facilitated ethical group discussions may reduce moral stress in the hospital setting, particularly through familiarization with others' roles and ethical perspectives and through supporting one another's ethical decision-making. The article concludes that moral stress is an important and poorly understood problem in veterinary practice and that further development of regular facilitated ethical group discussion may be of considerable benefit to team members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Ashall
- Science and Technology Studies Unit (SATSU), Department of Sociology, Heslington East Campus, University of York, York YO10 5GD, UK
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5
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Cowled BD, Hillman A, Ward MP, Clutterbuck H, Doyle M, Webb Ware J, Thomas M, Plain K, Barwell R, Laurence M, Pfeiffer C. The black summer bushfires: impacts and risk factors for livestock bushfire injury in south-eastern Australia. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:306-317. [PMID: 35514115 PMCID: PMC9546107 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background The 2019/2020 Australian bushfires were the largest bushfire event in modern Australian history. While actions to mitigate risk to homes from bushfires are well reported, there is very little research reported on the impacts of bushfires on livestock. With an increasing incidence of bushfires predicted, there is an urgent need to identify how farmers can best protect their livestock. Objectives Compare bushfire affected farms with and without injured livestock to identify associations between risk factors and bushfire injury. Infer management approaches that can be used to reduce bushfire injury in livestock. Method A case‐control study using a structured interview questionnaire, delivered in late 2020 to cattle and sheep farmers in south‐eastern Australia (New South Wales and Victoria) whose farmland was burnt in the 2019/2020 Australian bushfires. Case farms were farms with bushfires injured or killed livestock. Control farms were farms that had no bushfire injured livestock but that still had fire present on the farm. Interview responses were summarised and information theoretical approaches were used to identify potential risk factors for livestock bushfire injury and protective actions that could inform future fire‐preparation recommendations. Results and discussion Of 46 farms in the case‐control study, 21 (46%) reported bushfire injured or killed livestock. Apparent protective factors identified included: preparation (having a bushfire plan and more than two farm bushfire fighting units), backburning and receiving assistance from fire authorities. Combined beef and sheep grazing enterprises appeared to have an increased risk of bushfire injury to livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D Cowled
- Ausvet Pty Ltd, 34 Thynne St, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - A Hillman
- Ausvet Pty Ltd, 34 Thynne St, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - M P Ward
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H Clutterbuck
- South East Local Land Services, 159 Auburn St, Goulburn, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Doyle
- South East Local Land Services, 159 Auburn St, Goulburn, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J Webb Ware
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne, Grattan St, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - M Thomas
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne, Grattan St, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Plain
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R Barwell
- Animal Health Australia, Level 2, 95 Northbourne Ave, Turner, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - M Laurence
- Meat and Livestock Australia, Level 1, 40 Mount Street, North Sydney, New South Wales, 2060, Australia
| | - C Pfeiffer
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne, Grattan St, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Cowled BD, Bannister-Tyrrell M, Doyle M, Clutterbuck H, Cave J, Hillman A, Plain K, Pfeiffer C, Laurence M, Ward MP. The Australian 2019/2020 Black Summer Bushfires: Analysis of the Pathology, Treatment Strategies and Decision Making About Burnt Livestock. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:790556. [PMID: 35242835 PMCID: PMC8886614 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.790556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2019/2020, Australia experienced a severe bushfire event, with many tens of thousands of livestock killed or euthanized. Little systematic research has occurred to understand livestock bushfire injuries, risk factors for injury, or how to make decisions about management of bushfire-injured livestock. Addressing this research gap is important as there is an increasing bushfire incidence globally. This paper presents qualitative research findings about bushfire-injured and killed livestock in the south-east of Australia after the 2019/2020 Australian bushfires. We describe observed pathology, treatments used, and risk factors for injury, then use thematic analysis to understand decision making about managing fire-injured livestock. Livestock injured by the fires showed pathology predominantly associated with the common integument (feet, hooves and skin) and signs of acute respiratory damage. It could take several days for the full extent of burns to become apparent, leaving prognostic doubt. Treatment strategies included immediate euthanasia, salvage slaughter, retention for later culling, treatment and recovery on farm, hospitalization and intensive treatment, or no intervention. Risk factors reported for livestock injury included lack of warnings about an impending fire, the type and amount of vegetation around livestock and the weather conditions on the day the fire reached livestock. Moving stock to an area with little vegetation before fire arrived was seen as protective. Decision making regarding injured livestock appeared influenced by three main themes: (1) observations on the severity of pathology, clinical signs and level of prognostic doubt, (2) pre-existing beliefs about animal welfare (responsibility to minimize unnecessary suffering) and (3) assumptions about the future. The management of livestock was largely appropriate due to the rapid provision of veterinary expertise. However, it is likely that some injured livestock were euthanized due to conservative veterinary advice driven by a lack of opportunity to re-assess stock, with impacts on farmers. In future, resourcing regular revisits of injured livestock to manage risks of gradual progression of burn pathology may facilitate more accurate prognostic assessment, provided injured animals can receive appropriate pain relief. In addition, a more comprehensive burns classification system linked to prognosis that can be rapidly applied in the field may assist assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan D. Cowled
- Ausvet Pty Ltd., Bruce, ACT, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Brendan D. Cowled
| | | | - Mark Doyle
- South East Local Land Services, Goulburn, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Jeff Cave
- Biosecurity and Agriculture Services, Agriculture Victoria, Wodonga, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Karren Plain
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, NSW, Australia
| | - Caitlin Pfeiffer
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Michael P. Ward
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, NSW, Australia
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Palczynski LJ, Bleach ECL, Brennan ML, Robinson PA. Stakeholder Perceptions of Disease Management for Dairy Calves: "It's Just Little Things That Make Such a Big Difference". Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102829. [PMID: 34679851 PMCID: PMC8532611 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calf morbidity and mortality rates are often high in dairy herds, raising animal welfare concerns and negatively affecting farm economic efficiency and future performance. Disease prevention is critical to maintain calves in good health, but interventions are dependent upon the persons conducting them. This paper explores the perceptions of farmers, farm workers, veterinarians, and other advisors on the management of calfhood disease on dairy farms in England. Participants were recruited using purposive and "snowball" sampling, resulting in 40 in-depth, semi-structured interviews-26 with dairy farmers and 14 with advisors. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically coded. Three major themes were derived on the basis of interview data: disease occurrence and treatments, management of calf environment, and the role of stockmanship and perceived control. Respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in calves were those reported to be most problematic on dairy farms. Limited time and financial resources caused some farmers and advisors to experience a perceived inability to control calf health without antimicrobial treatments. Overall, the findings emphasise the importance of human influences on calf health and disease in the context of influencing the interactions among the host, pathogens, and the environment. Further research should investigate what "attention to detail" means within different farm contexts and practices, as this was believed to be important in the promotion of better husbandry standards and health. We recommend the use of supportive knowledge exchange processes, including facilitation, to empower farmers to promote continuous improvement in calf health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J. Palczynski
- Department of Animal Health, Behaviour and Welfare, Harper Adams University, Newport TF10 8NB, Shropshire, UK;
- Arthur Rank Centre, Livestock Department, Innovation for Agriculture, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh CV8 2LZ, Warwickshire, UK
| | - Emma C. L. Bleach
- Department of Agriculture and Environment, Harper Adams University, Newport TF10 8NB, Shropshire, UK;
| | - Marnie L. Brennan
- Sutton Bonington Campus, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK;
| | - Philip A. Robinson
- Department of Animal Health, Behaviour and Welfare, Harper Adams University, Newport TF10 8NB, Shropshire, UK;
- Correspondence:
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Redfern EA, Sinclair LA, Robinson PA. Dairy cow health and management in the transition period: The need to understand the human dimension. Res Vet Sci 2021; 137:94-101. [PMID: 33940352 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
During the transition from the dry period to lactation the dairy cow undergoes a period of physiological, metabolic and immunological change, and is at greater risk of developing disease, to the detriment of health, welfare and production. Many studies have been undertaken to determine appropriate management strategies to improve health and welfare during the transition period, however the incidence of disease, particularly metabolic disease, in this period remains high. To date, a lack of research attention has been paid to the social factors which may affect the management of transition dairy cows. An understanding of farmer and advisor attitudes and behaviour, and the challenges they face in managing transition cows, may help to direct farmers towards more effective disease prevention and control. It is also possible that transition cow morbidity may be due to complex interactions that are difficult to manage, despite efforts to implement best practice. This review paper provides a brief overview of some of the management factors that may influence herd health during the transition period. It then investigates how social influences may relate to the uptake of transition management practices by exploring the use of qualitative interviews investigating farmer and stakeholder attitudes and behaviour in relation to cattle health and welfare, before focussing more specifically on farmer behaviour. Additionally, this paper explores farm advisor behaviour, and how that has been shown to influence farmer adherence to advice, which has particular relevance to transition cow management. It then suggests potential research strategies to investigate the human influences affecting the scale of the problem that may provide solutions to tackle the challenge of improving dairy cow health and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma A Redfern
- Department of Veterinary Health and Animal Sciences, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom.
| | - Liam A Sinclair
- Department of Agriculture and Environment, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
| | - Philip A Robinson
- Department of Veterinary Health and Animal Sciences, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
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Furtado T, Christley R. Study design synopsis: From the horse's mouth: Qualitative methods for equine veterinary research. Equine Vet J 2021; 53:867-871. [PMID: 33826162 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tamzin Furtado
- Department of Infection, Veterinary and Epidemiological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert Christley
- Department of Infection, Veterinary and Epidemiological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Whitnall VM, Simmonds JG. Occupational stress and coping strategies in experienced Australian veterinarians. Vet Rec 2021; 189:e202. [PMID: 33645680 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterinarians have been identified as being at particularly high risk of stress in the workplace, this predisposes them to anxiety, depression and suicide. Previous quantitative studies have identified causes of stress and common coping strategies used by veterinarians. The current research aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the experience of veterinarian stress and ways of coping using qualitative methods. METHOD Twelve practicing small animal veterinarians in Australia were recruited. They took part individually in semi-structured research interviews. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to design the study and to analyse the transcripts. RESULTS Analyses of the interview data identified an overarching theme: spending less time working in clinical settings and four main themes: Preoccupation, self-doubt, conflicting responsibilities (between care of the animal, the human client and financial demands of the business) and insufficient support. CONCLUSION The results give a deeper understanding of sources of stress and the difficulties experienced in coping. These findings can help explain why veterinarians are leaving the profession or reducing their work hours, as well as emphasize the importance of continuing education of veterinarians on self-care and coping with stress, help with resolving ethical dilemmas, and working as a team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki Margot Whitnall
- Psychology Program, Faculty of Education Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Clough H, Roshier M, England G, Burford J, Freeman S. Cross-sectional study of UK horse owner's purchase and euthanasia decision-making for their horse. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e56. [PMID: 33739499 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate factors affecting horse owners' purchase and euthanasia decisions that had been identified in a qualitative study. METHODS An online survey on horse owners' purchase and euthanasia decisions and experiences was distributed using snowball sampling. Inclusion criteria were previous experience of purchase or euthanasia decisions. Descriptive data analyses (mean, median, mode and frequency percentages) were performed. RESULTS There were 451 participants from the UK and Ireland, 97% were female with a median age of 45 years. Participants most frequently did not seek any advice when deciding what type of horse to purchase (38.6%, 169/438) or if it was priced appropriately (48.7%, 214/439). Most participants were satisfied with their purchase and would purchase their horse again (84.9%, 370/436). The most frequent reasons for euthanasia were injury/illness with low chance of survival (55.2%, 201/364), poor quality of life (42.6%, 155/363) and long-term injury (35.7%, 130/364). Most participants sought advice or guidance when making end-of-life decisions (87.5%, 328/375), and 55% (243/440) had a euthanasia plan in place. CONCLUSIONS Owners show limited advice-seeking behaviour on key aspects of purchase decisions. Owners frequently seek advice on euthanasia decisions, and the majority of decisions were based on welfare concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Clough
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Mandy Roshier
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Gary England
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - John Burford
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Sarah Freeman
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
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12
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Furtado T, Perkins E, Pinchbeck G, McGowan C, Watkins F, Christley R. Exploring horse owners' understanding of obese body condition and weight management in UK leisure horses. Equine Vet J 2020; 53:752-762. [PMID: 33002214 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equine obesity is considered one of the most serious welfare concerns in UK leisure horses, yet little is known about how horse owners conceptualise their horse's weight as part of its health, or how they plan and carry out weight management. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to further our understanding of leisure horse owners' perceptions of equine health and awareness of excess fat in order to clarify our understanding of successful strategies for managing equine weight. STUDY DESIGN This study used a qualitative research methodology. METHODS Data comprised 16 threads from online UK equine discussion fora, 28 individual interviews with leisure horse owners, 19 interviews with equine professionals such as vets and nutritionists, and two focus groups with a further 21 horse owners. Data were anonymised and analysed using a grounded theory approach. RESULTS Awareness of excess fat was a complex issue, with owners finding it difficult to differentiate equine obesity from the shape they thought the horse was "meant to be", particularly if the horse was a heavier breed such as a native pony or cob. Owners were not necessarily "aware" or "unaware" of fat, but instead equine body fat was constructed as an integral part of the equine body. For example, owners might say that they thought their horse was an ideal weight yet describe their horse's overall body shape as "like a Thelwell". When owners became aware of fat as a changeable part of the horse's body, and/or a threat to health, the presence of fat was articulated as a strong-willed adversary, and weight management was considered a "battle" or "war". Owners found weight management difficult because they perceived that it had immediate negative welfare implications for the horse, and this therefore interfered with their preferred ownership practices and the horse-human relationship. MAIN LIMITATIONS Interview data are self-reported, and people may not always do what they say they do. CONCLUSIONS This study has provided valuable insight into how owners conceptualise weight and weight management, yielding important information about communicating with owners about weight, tailoring weight management strategies, and promoting positive welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamzin Furtado
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, UK
| | - Elizabeth Perkins
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Gina Pinchbeck
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, UK
| | - Catherine McGowan
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, UK
| | - Francine Watkins
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert Christley
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, UK
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13
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"They've got to be testing and doing something about it": Farmer and veterinarian views on drivers for Johne's disease control in dairy herds in England. Prev Vet Med 2020; 182:105094. [PMID: 32688108 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There needs to be an understanding of the reasons why key stakeholders engage in disease control efforts if disease is to be successfully and sustainably controlled. It is increasingly recognised within veterinary epidemiology and policy making in animal health that these 'people factors' are important influences on the success or otherwise of animal disease control programmes. Research methodologies adopted from the social sciences offer ways to understand this important dimension through investigating the attitudes and opinions of the key actors involved. The study reported in this paper, based on qualitative interview research, investigates the views of dairy farmers and cattle veterinarians on the drivers and incentives for controlling Johne's disease in English dairy herds. Twenty semi-structured interviews involving 17 dairy farmers and seven veterinarians were conducted in two dairy-intensive regions of England. The findings demonstrate the varied influences of veterinary advice and encouragement; appreciation of the economic cost of the disease at herd level; a voluntary national control plan; and fear of a future consumer food scare as the main reasons to engage in Johne's disease control on dairy farms. The study demonstrates how a combination of a voluntary industry-led control scheme, compulsory participation through retailer and processor contractual requirements, and threats of reputational harm and market loss have strongly influenced farmer and veterinary behaviour in relation to Johne's control without statutory involvement. The findings illustrate the importance of considering the political economy and societal impact of animal disease.
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Jackson AE. In this issue - August 2018: Qualitative interviews in veterinary research · History of CT and osteomyelitis · Minimally invasive repair of humeral fractures in dogs · Body temperature recording in koalas · BVDV antibodies not found in South Australian sheep. Aust Vet J 2019; 96:275-276. [PMID: 30129026 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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