1
|
Forder C, Benato L, Rooney NJ. An investigation into how accurately UK rabbit owners identify pain in their pet rabbits. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:122. [PMID: 38532474 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03947-7] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rabbits are popular family pets. They are prey species and so have evolved to hide signs of illness and pain. Recent research has developed robust pain scales for use in a clinical setting, but to date none has examined rabbit owners' ability to recognise pain in their animals. This study investigated how owners identify pain in their pet rabbits and their ability to correctly identify different levels of pain, in order to determine any need for owner education in this area. METHODS Owners were recruited via Facebook and a two-part online survey was distributed. Part one collected data on demographics, owners' knowledge of pain signs and beliefs about pain in rabbits. Part two asked respondents to pain score eight videos of rabbits in different levels of pain for comparison to pain scores made by three experts. We used a simplified version of the Bristol Rabbit Pain Score (BRPS) which involved a single 0 to 3 scale. We explored the number of pain signs each respondent could list, the total score given to the videos, and their deviation from the experts' scores. RESULTS A total of 500 respondents completed part one of the survey and 345 additionally completed Part two. Respondents were on average able to state five signs of pain (range 0-12), but females stated significantly more (p = 0.018), as did those who worked with rabbits (p = 0.004) and those with experience of their rabbit having an operation (p = 0.01). Overall, 98.6% of respondents thought rabbits felt pain as much or more that dogs and cats. In Part two, respondents more frequently agreed with the experts when identifying rabbits in no pain (88.8%) and severe pain (65.2%), but there was lower agreement when identifying mild (28.4%) and moderate pain (43.2%). Respondents overall rated pain lower than experts with an average total pain score of 11.9 compared to 18 given by the experts. CONCLUSIONS Most rabbit owners are able to list numerous pain signs and are generally able to identify pain-free rabbits and those in severe pain. Owners' ability to differentiate between mild and moderate pain is more limited and could benefit from training in the subtler signs of pain. Veterinary professionals are well placed to educate owners about signs of pain in rabbits and should be aware of areas where owners' knowledge can be improved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Forder
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Livia Benato
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Nicola J Rooney
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Solhjoo N. Using the pet health information behaviour intervention model should make information prescriptions for pet guardians more effective. Health Info Libr J 2024; 41:26-42. [PMID: 36000365 DOI: 10.1111/hir.12456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on information behaviour related to companion animal's (pet) health have been carried out in different contexts and there have been attempts to modify and idealize these information behaviours. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to apply the Pet Health Information Behaviour Intervention model in an empirical context and elaborate the theoretical contribution of the model to information behaviour research in the context of pet care and management. METHODS All the variables of the proposed model were quantified and tested through case study research involving 20 participants. Each case consisted of a guardian who participated in the information intervention program with their cat(s) and/or dog(s) in a small animal hospital, with a follow-up interview after 2 weeks. RESULTS The information prescription helped both the experienced Internet searchers and the less health literate guardians. The pet guardians were particularly appreciative of the advice on evaluating and using online health information. The higher guardian-pet bond, the more the participant used the tips to search online information. The information prescription helped the relationship with the veterinary professional through improved data gathering and perception of the professional-guardian partnership. CONCLUSION The model will assist both information professionals and animal health providers to better design and evaluate information interventions that support pet welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Solhjoo
- School of Information Management, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Phillips K, Stewart C, Johnston T, Mills DS. "Have You Seen This Drivel?" A Comparison of How Common Health Issues Are Discussed within Brachycephalic and Non-Brachycephalic Dog Breed Groups on Social Media. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:757. [PMID: 38473142 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050757] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
As brachycephalic dog breed ownership increases, there is a growing concern for the welfare of these breeds due to extreme brachycephalism. Understanding the motivations and behaviours of those choosing to own these breeds is important if we wish to address these concerns. The aim of this study was to investigate how owners of brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dog breeds use social media dog breed groups to discuss common health issues. The purpose of Facebook posts in relation to common health issues, owner awareness of health issues and the role of Facebook facilitated social support were explored between brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dog owners. Twelve Facebook breed goups were selected (brachycephalic breed groups, n = 6, non-brachycephalic breed groups, n = 6). Using key word searches we extracted the first twenty posts from each group. Thematic analysis revealed three overarching themes: advice seeking, advice giving and community bonding mechanisms. Whilst the purpose of posting did not differ between groups, non-brachycephalic owners appeared to display greater awareness of breed-specific health issues, whilst social support played a more prominent role in brachycephalic groups. This research highlights that social media groups can act as platforms for knowledge exchange and emotional support. These could be utilised by owners, veterinarians and welfare organisations to more effectively enhance dog health and wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kitty Phillips
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
| | - Carrie Stewart
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
| | - Taryn Johnston
- Department of Marketing, Languages and Tourism, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
| | - Daniel S Mills
- Animal Behavior, Cognition & Welfare Group, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
McKenna C, Quigley M, Webb TL. Evaluating the readability of recruitment materials in veterinary clinical research. J Vet Intern Med 2023; 37:2125-2130. [PMID: 37759419 PMCID: PMC10658532 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16857] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Owner comprehension is vital to recruitment and study success, but limited information exists regarding the readability of public-facing veterinary clinical trial descriptions. OBJECTIVES The current study sought to evaluate the readability of public-facing online veterinary clinical trial descriptions from academic institutions and private referral practices. ANIMALS None. METHODS This prospective study assessed readability in a convenience sample of veterinary clinical trial study descriptions using 3 common methods: the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (F-K), Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), and online Automatic Readability Checker (ARC). Results were compared across specialties and between academic and private institutions. RESULTS Grade level and readability consensus scores (RCSs) were obtained for 61 online clinical trial descriptions at universities (n = 49) and private practices (n = 12). Average grade-level RCS for study descriptions was 14.13 (range, 9-21). Using Microsoft Word, the FRES score was higher in descriptions from universities compared to private practices (P = .03), and F-K scores were lower in university compared to private practice descriptions (P = .03). FRES (P = .07), F-K (P = .12), and readability consensus (P = .17) scores obtained from ARC were not different between institution types. Forty-eight studies (79%) had RCSs over 12, equivalent to reading material at college or graduate school levels. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Similar to other areas in veterinary communication, the evaluated veterinary clinical trial descriptions used for advertising and recruitment far exceeded the recommended 6th-grade reading level for medical information. Readability assessments are straightforward to conduct, and ensuring health literacy should be a customary best practice in veterinary medicine and clinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charly McKenna
- Ontario Veterinary CollegeUniversity of GuelphGuelphOntarioCanada
| | - Mindy Quigley
- Virginia‐Maryland College of Veterinary MedicineVirginia TechBlacksburgVirginiaUSA
| | - Tracy L. Webb
- Department of Clinical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Springer S, Mihatsch DI, Grimm H, Jenner F. Between Leisure and Pressure-Veterinarians' Attitudes towards the Care of Competition Horses in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2126. [PMID: 37443925 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132126] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine veterinarians face a range of challenges when attending competition horses. Athletic goals may significantly impact veterinary decision making, and the veterinarian's work can be complicated by reputational considerations and rival opinions during an assessment of whether a horse is "fit to compete". Using an online questionnaire, we found that the majority of German, Austrian and Swiss equine veterinarians (N = 172) surveyed agreed that the owners of competition horses are more likely than owners of leisure horses to approach them with clear treatment ideas, and that the former have higher expectations of the medical services provided. The data also show that the veterinarian's reputation plays a more important role in the competition sphere. Using a case vignette, we established that, on the grounds of equine welfare, the majority of respondents indicated that they would decide against starting a dressage horse with low-grade lameness in a competition. Those respondents who indicated that they would approve a start of the dressage horse indicated that a horse with a low-grade lameness was fit enough "to compete". We conclude that clearer definitions of phrases, such as "fit to compete", may be helpful in guiding veterinarians as they discharge their professional responsibilities during competitions and reduce the reputational stress they experience in this working context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Springer
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Messerli Research Institute, Unit of Ethics and Human-Animal-Studies, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Denise Isabell Mihatsch
- Department of Companion Animals and Horses, Equine Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Herwig Grimm
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Messerli Research Institute, Unit of Ethics and Human-Animal-Studies, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Florien Jenner
- Department of Companion Animals and Horses, Equine Hospital, Equine Surgery Unit, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Keller P, Vanwesenbeeck I, Decloedt A. Surveying dog owners' use and understanding of, and communication with veterinarians about, complementary and alternative veterinary medicine. Vet Rec 2023; 192:e2343. [PMID: 36331424 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2343] [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: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM) seems to be gaining acceptance by pet owners. Client-veterinarian communication about CAVM is important to explore client perceptions and facilitate open exchange of ideas between owners and veterinarians. METHODS This study includes an online, cross-sectional survey of dog owners to evaluate CAVM use and client-veterinarian communication about CAVM. Based on the extended theory of planned behaviour, factors influencing the intention to use CAVM were evaluated. RESULTS Past CAVM use was reported by 45.3% clients based on 1000 valid surveys. The attitude towards CAVM was generally positive. Perceived knowledge about CAVM positively predicted perceived behavioural control and attitude towards CAVM. Both were the strongest predictors of future CAVM use. Around 45.7% of clients had already talked to their veterinarian about CAVM. This conversation was mainly initiated by the owner (66.3%). Owners expected the veterinarian to have knowledge about CAVM (91.5%) and offer referral (71.5%). LIMITATIONS The limitation is difficulty in classifying and defining CAVM modalities. CONCLUSIONS Owners' perceived behavioural control and attitude towards CAVM predict CAVM use. Failure to engage in a conversation about CAVM hampers clients to partner with veterinarians to discuss the treatment approach and maximise patient outcome. The veterinarian plays an essential role in providing objective accurate information about CAVM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pia Keller
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ini Vanwesenbeeck
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Neville V, Hunter K, Benato L, Mendl M, Paul ES. Developing guidelines for pet rat housing through expert consultation. Vet Rec 2023; 192:e1839. [PMID: 35841618 PMCID: PMC10084028 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pet care guidelines play an important role in ensuring that owners are well informed about good husbandry practices, allowing them to provide the best care for their animals. However, the development of such guidelines is difficult when there is little appropriate empirical evidence on which to base guidelines, as in the case of pet rats. The consultation of multiple experts can help to surmount this challenge. METHODS We developed a set of guidelines for pet rat housing by consulting with a group of experts, including veterinarians, veterinary nurses, animal welfare scientists and experienced pet rat owners. The consultation involved two rounds of online surveys (n = 13) and one online discussion (n = 8). RESULTS The resulting guidelines cover a broad range of features within pet rat housing, including injury prevention, details of suitable refuges and substrates, and suitable cage sizing. The guidelines may evolve as more information about pet rats comes to light but may nonetheless provide a useful starting point for any future guidelines. CONCLUSIONS At present, these guidelines may not only be useful for pet rat owners and those advising pet rat owners, such as veterinarians, but may also be useful in the design of housing, including for laboratory rodents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikki Neville
- Bristol Veterinary SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | | | - Livia Benato
- Bristol Veterinary SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- City VetsExeterUK
| | - Michael Mendl
- Bristol Veterinary SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Springer S, Lund TB, Sandøe P, Corr SA, Kristensen AT, Grimm H. Digital opportunities to connect and complain - the use of Facebook in small animal practice. Vet Rec Open 2022; 9:e29. [PMID: 35251668 PMCID: PMC8885750 DOI: 10.1002/vro2.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media is increasingly used in small animal practice, enabling veterinarians to connect with clients and promote their business online. It can also be used by clients to quickly distribute complaints via online communities. MATERIAL/METHODS Using a questionnaire study we investigated Austrian, Danish and UK veterinarians' attitudes towards Facebook, the contents of clients' online complaints and how they were handled by veterinarians (N = 648). RESULTS In Denmark and the UK, around 90% of practices had a Facebook page, in contrast to 40% of Austrian practices. Most Danish and UK veterinarians agreed that the use of Facebook was relevant and expected by clients. Agreement was lower among Austrian veterinarians, probably reflecting the lower uptake of social media there. In particular, younger veterinarians and those who actively used Facebook for the practice, could see benefits. In all three countries, we found that clients most frequently complained about treatment costs. Most veterinarians preferred to actively deal with clients' complaints, either replying online or discussing them directly. CONCLUSIONS We recommend future research focusing on veterinarians' personal use of social media and on clients' use of and attitudes towards social media in the veterinary context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Springer
- Unit of Ethics and Human‐Animal Studies, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of ViennaUniversity of ViennaViennaAustria
- Department of Food and Resource EconomicsUniversity of CopenhagenFrederiksbergDenmark
| | - Thomas Bøker Lund
- Department of Food and Resource EconomicsUniversity of CopenhagenFrederiksbergDenmark
| | - Peter Sandøe
- Department of Food and Resource EconomicsUniversity of CopenhagenFrederiksbergDenmark
- Department of Veterinary and Animal ScienceUniversity of CopenhagenFrederiksbergDenmark
| | - Sandra A. Corr
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowScotland
| | | | - Herwig Grimm
- Unit of Ethics and Human‐Animal Studies, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of ViennaUniversity of ViennaViennaAustria
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Burnett E, Brand CL, O'Neill DG, Pegram CL, Belshaw Z, Stevens KB, Packer RMA. How much is that doodle in the window? Exploring motivations and behaviours of UK owners acquiring designer crossbreed dogs (2019-2020). Canine Med Genet 2022; 9:8. [PMID: 35610665 PMCID: PMC9127489 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-022-00120-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Demand for intentional crosses of purebred dog breeds, often labelled ‘designer crossbreeds’ (e.g., Labrador Retriever X Poodle, the ‘Labradoodle’), has recently increased in the UK. This study aimed to explore this phenomenon by comparing pre-purchase motivations, pre-purchase and purchase behaviours of UK owners of designer crossbred puppies purchased during 2019-2020 with those of owners of purebred puppies purchased during the same period. Results Data were collected in an online cross-sectional survey between November-December 2020. Responses from n = 6293 puppies (designer crossbred puppies: n = 1575; purebred puppies: n = 4718) were analysed. Perceived hypoallergenicity was cited as a motivator for breed/crossbreed choice by almost half of designer crossbreed owners (47.1%), six times more than purebred dog owners (7.86%; odds ratio [OR]: 9.12, 95% CI: 7.70-10.8). Designer crossbred puppies were more likely to have been acquired via a general selling website (e.g., Gumtree; 13.8%) compared to purebred puppies (7.67%; OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.77-2.71), or an animal-specific selling websites (e.g., Pets4Homes; 55.7%) compared to purebred puppies (37.4%; OR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.65-2.17). Designer crossbreed owners were less likely to see their puppy in person prior to purchase than purebred owners (60.4% vs. 67.0%, respectively; OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.64-0.85), and at purchase, designer crossbred puppies were less likely to be seen with their mother (73.1% vs. 79.8%, respectively; OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70-0.95), and littermates (67.7% vs. 78.1%, respectively; OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.55-0.73). Designer crossbreeds had a significantly higher purchase price, with 25.7% of designer crossbreed puppies costing £2000-£2999 compared to 15.1% of purebred puppies (X2 = 207.31, p < 0.001). Conclusions The recent boom in designer crossbreeds in the UK has been fuelled by a desire for perceived hypoallergenic and generally healthy dogs that fit the lifestyles of households with children and limited experience with dogs. Some sought-after traits in designer crossbreeds are misconceptions that risk canine welfare, including relinquishment risk, if owner expectations are not met. Purchasing practices fuelling this boom support irresponsible breeding and selling practices, which combined with reduced pressure for health testing from buyers, may result in a higher disease burden and poorer future welfare for this growing designer dog population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Burnett
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK.,School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicester, UK
| | - C L Brand
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D G O'Neill
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - C L Pegram
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Z Belshaw
- EviVet Evidence-based Veterinary Consultancy, Nottingham, UK
| | - K B Stevens
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R M A Packer
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kuhl CA, Dean R, Quarmby C, Lea RG. Information sourcing by dog owners in the UK: Resource selection and perceptions of knowledge. Vet Rec 2021; 190:e1081. [PMID: 34741470 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1081] [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: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dogs are a popular pet in the UK. Information resources utilised by dog owners can influence welfare at acquisition and throughout a dog's lifetime. This study determined where UK dog owners source information, and how perceptions relating to pedigree dog breeding and health may influence this process. METHODS This cross-sectional study used online questionnaires to explore the information resources used by dog owners and their perceptions of veterinary surgeons' and dog breeders' knowledge. RESULTS Overall, 1336 responses were collected (useable responses: 1167). Data indicated most owners conducted research before getting a dog, with the internet, books, breeders and friends or family among the most popular resources used. Preferred sources of information during a dogs' lifetime included the internet, talking to veterinary surgeons and reading books. Veterinary surgeons were the most popular source for health advice. Pedigree dog owners perceived veterinary surgeons and breeders to be equally knowledgeable on canine inherited diseases. However, veterinary surgeons were perceived as being more knowledgeable on inherited disease screening programmes and breeders more knowledgeable on dog breeding. CONCLUSION This study highlights the information resources preferred by dog owners, providing an opportunity to maximise access to reliable sources of information to improve dog welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Caroline Quarmby
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Richard Graham Lea
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Imeri A. 10,000 steps a day? Activity trackers, health information literacy and the potential role of Information Science & Health Libraries. Health Info Libr J 2021; 38:157-159. [PMID: 34549515 DOI: 10.1111/hir.12398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Acknowledging the new ways in which activity tracking technologies (ATTs) such as Apple Watch, Fitbit and Garmin are changing the ways in which we understand human-information interactions, Aylin Imeri calls for information science and health libraries to extend their health information literacy remit to support ATT user information needs.
Collapse
|