1
|
Paterson R, Boller E, Kim Y, Hammond K, Diemer K. What can veterinary professionals do? Measuring the effect of one domestic violence training pilot program on veterinary professionals' capacity to recognize, respond, and refer human victims of domestic violence. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1254373. [PMID: 38414653 PMCID: PMC10896970 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1254373] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Veterinary professionals have a key role in facilitating multi-agency collaboration to prevent and respond to domestic violence (DV) in situations where animals may be directly or indirectly involved. Yet despite their position as potential touchpoints for victim-survivors with animals, many veterinary professionals do not feel equipped to act on suspicions or disclosures of DV. In response to this identified need, one service operating in Melbourne, Australia, developed the Vet-3R's training program (Recognize-Respond-Refer) which was piloted on 65 veterinary professionals in Melbourne's Eastern Metropolitan Region. Methods This is an exploratory study aimed at measuring the effect of the Vets 3-R's program on veterinary professionals' confidence and capacity to recognize, respond and refer victims of DV. Participants were invited to complete online surveys before and after the training to evaluate their understanding of DV and their capacity to support suspected victim-survivors with animals who present at their service. Results The pre-training self-evaluation scores indicated that while most veterinary professionals are aware of the link between animal abuse and DV, they lack the confidence to respond and refer individuals when confronted with suspicions or disclosures of abuse. However, upon completion of the Vets 3-R's program, participants reported marked improvements in their ability to recognize, respond, and refer victim-survivors. The most significant improvement could be seen in participants' self-reported ability to respond appropriately to suspicions of DV. Discussion While results are indicative only due to the small sample size, this study suggests that veterinary professionals may be an underutilized intervention point for DV victim-survivors with animals. The Vet-3R's training program can be a useful tool for increasing effectiveness of this intervention point to safely assist DV victim-survivors. More research on similar programs with a larger cohort of participants would be beneficial to measure the impact of such programs on a wider scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rochelle Paterson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Elise Boller
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Youna Kim
- Eastern Domestic Violence Service (EDVOS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate Hammond
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kristin Diemer
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ethical and Practical Considerations Associated with Companion Animal Euthanasia. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030430. [PMID: 36766319 PMCID: PMC9913502 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030430] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The reality that euthanasia in veterinary practice can end animal suffering but can also be used in circumstances that do not serve an animal's interest, can be a benefit for animals, and a burden for veterinary professionals, respectively. This essay addresses ethical and practical concerns associated with companion animal euthanasia, including defining euthanasia, why and when euthanasia should be performed, applying euthanasia in practice, contemporary methods, aftercare of deceased animals, and the consequences of euthanasia and dysthanasia for animals, animal owners, and veterinary professionals. We contend that an intention-based definition of euthanasia should be strictly applied in veterinary practice and that practitioners view euthanasia decisions as requests that can (and in some cases should) be declined, rather than as mandates.
Collapse
|
3
|
Zidenberg AM, Sparks B, Olver M. A Survey of Veterinary Medical Professionals' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Experiences with Animal Sexual Abuse. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2022:1-12. [PMID: 36197807 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2022.2131430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2022]
Abstract
There has been little study of animal sexual abuse (ASA). Subsequently, little is known about veterinary medical professionals' (e.g., Veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Nurses) knowledge of ASA and how they may contribute to the prevention of ASA. Thus, the objective of this paper is to comprehensively study ASA in a sample of veterinary medical professionals. Eighty-eight professionals were recruited through professional associations and posts on social media to take part in a survey examining non-sexual animal abuse, ASA, and criminal justice perceptions. Results indicated that, levels of knowledge and training were much lower for ASA than non-sexual abuse. Professionals also responded punitively toward individuals who have committed sexual abuse against animals and supported long prison sentences and registries for offenders. Veterinary medical professionals were supportive of mandatory reporting of all types of abuse but did not feel prepared to testify in these cases should they go to court. These results have implications for practice as they indicate that veterinary medical professionals are not receiving enough training on abuse - particularly ASA - which could put their patients at risk of continued harm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Zidenberg
- Department of Psychology and Health Studies, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
| | - Brandon Sparks
- Department of Psychology and Health Studies, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
| | - Mark Olver
- Department of Psychology and Health Studies, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Patterson-Kane EG, Kogan LR, Gupta ME, Touroo R, Niestat LN, Kennedy-Benson A. Veterinary needs for animal cruelty recognition and response in the United States center on training and workplace policies. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:1853-1861. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.02.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To better understand the experiences and perceptions of veterinary professionals in the US responding to suspected cases of animal cruelty.
SAMPLE
1,027 US veterinary professionals.
PROCEDURES
An anonymous survey was distributed via social media and veterinary professional associations between October 15 and November 15, 2020.
RESULTS
Responses indicated that more cases of suspected animal cruelty were seen by those who reported having had cruelty training and in workplaces with emergency intake or a relationship with law enforcement. In addition, suspected cases were more likely to be reported to authorities by respondents who indicated there was a workplace policy for handling cruelty cases and by individuals who indicated that they were aware that they were mandated reporters.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
The important needs for veterinary professionals in relation to animal cruelty are more training to recognize animal cruelty, workplace policies for reporting, and knowledge of reporting laws.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lori R. Kogan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen YH, Huang WH. Pilot Study of Attitudes of Taiwanese Veterinarians and Undergraduate Veterinary Students toward Animal Abuse and Interpersonal Violence. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1135. [PMID: 35565560 PMCID: PMC9099901 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091135] [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: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a strong association between animal abuse and interpersonal violence; therefore, veterinarians may encounter both. Dealing with animal abuse cases is beneficial for advancing animal welfare and the overall public health. Veterinarians play an important role in identifying and responding to this relationship. This study estimated the incidence of animal abuse encountered by veterinarians, examined veterinarians' awareness of the relationship between animal abuse and human abuse, examined veterinarians' attitudes towards how they deal with abuse cases, and related demographic characteristics to their attitudes of intervention and the frequency of encountering abuse cases. An anonymous self-administered questionnaire was designed and distributed through social media. Our results show that respondents' motivation to interfere for animal abuse cases was positively related to their moral or legal responsibility, willingness to assist, and agreement of mandatory reporting. Our results indicated that respondents who believed they had been provided with adequate training were more willing to deal with animal abuse, more capable of distinguishing abuse cases, and did not believe that dealing with abuse cases was beyond their ability. However, more than 60% of our respondents self-evaluated that the animal cruelty awareness training courses were insufficient. Hence, in addition to the traditional role of veterinarians, identifying and responding to animal cruelty should be enhanced through education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan;
- National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10672, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan;
- National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10672, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Monsalve S, de Souza PV, Lopes AS, Leite LO, Polo G, Garcia R. Medicina Veterinaria Forense, Bienestar y Maltrato Animal: Percepciones y Conocimiento de Estudiantes de Medicina Veterinaria Colombianos y Brasileños. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 48:764-773. [PMID: 34898396 DOI: 10.3138/jvme-2019-0138.es] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Los médicos veterinarios juegan un papel fundamental en la detección de casos de maltrato animal y violencia doméstica. Por lo tanto, es esencial que las escuelas de medicina veterinaria brinden una formación adecuada en bienestar animal y medicina veterinaria forense. El objetivo del presente artículo es caracterizar la percepción y el conocimiento de los estudiantes de medicina veterinaria sobre la formación en medicina veterinaria forense, bienestar animal y la asociación entre maltrato animal y violencia humana. Un cuestionario online fue distribuido a los estudiantes de las 227 y 22 facultades de medicina veterinaria en Brasil y Colombia, respectivamente. Pruebas de chi-cuadrado fueron realizadas para comparar las respuestas de las variables categóricas entre los estudiantes de Brasil y Colombia. La mayoría de los estudiantes encuestados indicaron que su escuela ofrecía capacitación en bienestar animal. Sin embargo, solo el 21.8% (47/216) de los estudiantes colombianos y el 43.1% (216/523) de los brasileños mencionaron que su facultad ofrecía formación en medicina veterinaria forense. En ambos países fueron identificadas deficiencias en la capacitación sobre la identificación de traumas no accidentales, denuncia de maltrato animal y el conocimiento sobre la asociación entre maltrato animal y violencia interpersonal. A pesar de esto, más del 90% de los estudiantes relataron ser conscientes de la relación que existe entre estos dos crímenes y la importancia de recibir capacitación obligatoria sobre maltrato animal y medicina veterinaria forense. Adicionalmente, la mayoría de los encuestados reconocieron que el maltrato animal incluye tanto el abuso físico como el mental. Nuestros resultados destacan la necesidad de mejorar la educación en bienestar animal, maltrato animal, violencia humana y medicina veterinaria forense en las facultades de medicina veterinaria de Brasil y Colombia.
Collapse
|
7
|
Monsalve S, de Souza PV, Lopes AS, Leite LO, Polo G, Garcia R. Veterinary Forensics, Animal Welfare and Animal Abuse: Perceptions and Knowledge of Brazilian and Colombian Veterinary Students. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 48:640-648. [PMID: 33226910 DOI: 10.3138/jvme-2019-0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Veterinarians have a fundamental role to play in the detection of animal abuse and domestic violence cases. Therefore, it is essential that veterinary colleges provide appropriate training in animal welfare and veterinary forensics. The aim of this article is to characterize the perception and knowledge of veterinary students about training in veterinary forensics, animal welfare and the association between animal abuse and human violence. An online survey was made available to veterinary students at 227 veterinary colleges in Brazil and 22 in Colombia. The Chi-square test of independence was performed to compare responses of Brazilian and Colombian students for categorical survey items. Most of the surveyed students indicated that their college offered animal welfare training. However, only 21.8% (47/216) of the Colombian and 43.1% (216/523) of the Brazilian students mentioned that their veterinary colleges offered veterinary forensics training. Deficits in training in identification of non-accidental traumas, reporting of animal abuse and awareness of the association between interpersonal violence and animal abuse were identified in both countries. Despite this, more than 90% of students were aware of the relationship between these two crimes and in the importance of receiving compulsory training in animal abuse and veterinary forensics. Likewise, most of the respondents recognized that animal abuse includes both physical and mental abuse. The results highlight the need to improve education in animal welfare, animal abuse, human violence and veterinary forensics in veterinary colleges in Brazil and Colombia.
Collapse
|
8
|
Randour ML, Smith-Blackmore M, Blaney N, DeSousa D, Guyony AA. Animal Abuse as a Type of Trauma: Lessons for Human and Animal Service Professionals. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2021; 22:277-288. [PMID: 31043145 DOI: 10.1177/1524838019843197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Animal abuse frequently occurs at the same time and the same place as other types of violence, particularly family violence. Because of that close association, this article proposes that it is the responsibility of both animal service and human service professionals to be aware of its occurrence, understand its significance, and promote appropriate professional and policy responses to it. Research literature addressing the link between animal abuse and other forms of violence ("the link") is discussed. Articles selected for review were published in a peer-reviewed journal, relevant to some aspect of the link between animal abuse and child abuse and/or domestic violence, used either a national or a longitudinal database, or relied on random sampling or a comparison group. If a study was retrospective or drawn from a convenience sample, it had to have been replicated by another study for inclusion. Finally, any measurement instruments used by the study under review must have had acceptable reliability and validity. Legal databases, such as LexisNexis, were used to identify legislation that has been passed and/or court cases that have been decided that were relevant to the topic of "the link." Strong associations were found between domestic violence, child abuse, and animal abuse; animal abuse, whether witnessed or committed, is a form of trauma. Severe animal abuse as a predictor for severe domestic violence recently emerged as a promising association. However, some of these findings on "the link" have not been translated into practice, for example, domestic violence advocates and child protection workers frequently do not ask questions about pets in the family. At the same time, the past 20 years have seen an increase in state and federal legislation and policies that have been enacted, in part, because of the growing body of evidence on the link. Knowledge of the link also has influenced a number of court cases deciding parental rights. Moreover, awareness of the link is illustrated by the passage of pet protection orders for victims of domestic violence as well as the inclusion of pet abuse as a form of domestic violence. Human service and animal service professionals should articulate more ways in which they can communicate with one another, thus adding more information and resources to any intervention or treatment of family violence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel DeSousa
- County of San Diego, Department of Animal Services, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Flanagan S, Schick A, Lewis TP, Chu Tater K, Rishniw M. A survey of primary care practitioners' referral habits and recommendations of allergen-specific immunotherapy for canine and feline patients with atopic dermatitis. Vet Dermatol 2020; 32:106-e21. [PMID: 33275300 DOI: 10.1111/vde.12918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A recent pilot study of primary care veterinarians' attitudes regarding canine atopic dermatitis and initiation of allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) revealed several barriers to specialist referral (in the USA) and use of ASIT as a treatment modality. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to collect data on referral habits and ASIT practices among a much larger cohort of primary care veterinarians located around the world, and to explore barriers to referral and management of atopic diseases of dogs and cats with ASIT. METHODS AND MATERIALS An online survey, administered through the Veterinary Information Network (VIN, Davis, CA, USA), asked participants to self-report their referral habits and immunotherapy recommendations, and rate barriers and motivating factors using Likert-scale responses. RESULTS Of 827 survey responses, 97.6% identified as primary care practitioners. A larger number of practitioners (84.5%) reported seeing atopic dogs often, compared with atopic cats (9.7%). Fewer of these veterinarians (56.6%) referred atopic cats for specialist care, compared to atopic dogs (73.5%). Timely communication, sharing long-term management of the case, and provision of local continuing education were identified as factors associated with increased willingness to refer. A higher proportion of practitioners reported recommending ASIT for dogs (44.3%) than for cats (16.0%). Only 56.0% of respondents considered success rates of ASIT to be acceptable, while 27.9% were neutral on the topic. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Dermatology specialists might build stronger relationships with referring veterinarians through timely case follow-up and provision of continuing education regarding the long-term benefits of ASIT and symptomatic management practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Flanagan
- Dermatology for Animals, 86 W. Juniper Ave, Gilbert, AZ, 85233, USA.,Dermatology for Animals, 22,595 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85255, USA
| | - Anthea Schick
- Dermatology for Animals, 22,595 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85255, USA
| | - Thomas P Lewis
- Dermatology for Animals, 86 W. Juniper Ave, Gilbert, AZ, 85233, USA
| | - Kathy Chu Tater
- Veterinary Information Network, 777 West Covell Boulevard, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Mark Rishniw
- Veterinary Information Network, 777 West Covell Boulevard, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 602 Tower Rd, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rebollada-Merino A, Bárcena C, Mayoral-Alegre FJ, García-Real I, Domínguez L, Rodríguez-Bertos A. Forensic cases of suspected dog and cat abuse in the Community of Madrid (Spain), 2014-2019. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 316:110522. [PMID: 33038828 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110522] [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: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Companion animal abuse is an issue that concerns not only veterinarians and law enforcement agencies but also society in general. Animals that die under suspicious or violent circumstances should be submitted to reference laboratories for a postmortem examination by veterinary forensic pathologists trained to recognize animal abuse. Nevertheless, the low notification rate of such cases in Spain may explain the country's lag in the development of veterinary forensics and the limited information available on animal abuse epidemiology in comparison with other countries. By sharing information among the entities involved in recognizing animal abuse, we can better address these issues, thus improving veterinary forensics in Spain (and elsewhere). In this study, we analysed the cause and manner of death of 96 dog and cat carcasses suspected of animal abuse. These cases were submitted to our diagnostic laboratory for forensic postmortem examination by public agencies and animal protection centres. To our knowledge, this is the first study to focus on the postmortem analysis of forensic cases of suspected dog and cat abuse in Spain. On the basis of gross and histopathological findings, we distinguished between natural and non-natural abuse-related deaths, classifying the latter. We confirmed that most of the dog deaths were related with abuse, though the suspected abuse and the cause of death did not always coincide. In contrast, cause of death was determined to be natural in many of the cat suspected abuse cases. The most frequent non-natural abuse-related cause of death in dogs was blunt force trauma (n=24, 43.64%), followed by firearm injuries (n=10, 18.18%), asphyxia (n=5, 9.09%), heatstroke (n=3, 5.45%), starvation (n=2, 3.64%), bite injury (n=1, 1.82%), and sharp force trauma (n=1, 1.82%). In cats, the most common cause of death was blunt force trauma (n=9, 21.95%), followed by firearm injuries (n=3, 7.32%) and bite injury (n=2, 4.88%). The main goal of our study is to share our results with the scientific community to advance the field of veterinary forensics in Spain, which will lead to more successful prosecutions by law enforcement agencies. Finally, we highlight that veterinarians who can accurately recognize signs of animal abuse may be able to better respond to cases of companion animal cruelty, which in turn, may prevent possible escalation to interpersonal violence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carmen Bárcena
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Isabel García-Real
- Department of Internal Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Rodríguez-Bertos
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain; Department of Internal Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
An Analysis of Veterinary Practitioners' Intention to Intervene in Animal Abuse Cases in South Korea. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10050802. [PMID: 32384721 PMCID: PMC7277084 DOI: 10.3390/ani10050802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In South Korea, from 2013–2018, the number of animal abuse crimes has increased by 3.3 times. Since veterinarians are at the forefront of witnessing and identifying such issues, we aimed to investigate the perceived barriers and factors that influence their intention toward reporting animal abuse cases and counseling animal owners in South Korea to develop insights into how they can be encouraged to engage in abuse prevention. We collected data regarding the number of cases witnessed, responses to these cases, barriers associated with reporting cases, belief in the link between animal abuse and human crimes and moral and legal obligations, and participant characteristics via a questionnaire. On analyzing the responses, we uncovered that 80% of the participants witnessed suspected animal abuse cases, and more than half of them were reluctant to report them to the authorities. We found that a “pro-animal” attitude and belief in the “link” between animal abuse and human abuse and moral and legal obligations toward animals are significantly associated with intervening in animal abuse cases. To reinforce these aspects, we recommend that veterinarians be trained in legal liability, moral responsibility, and veterinary forensic medicine. To overcome perceived barriers, legislation to protect victims and reporting veterinarians should be introduced. Abstract Due to their professional abilities, veterinarians have a duty to reduce animal abuse. Therefore, it is crucial to understand their attitude and behavior on encountering animal abuse cases. We analyzed the responses from completed questionnaires (n = 593) filled by small and large animal practitioners in South Korea. The majority (n = 513, 86.5%) of the respondents witnessed suspected animal abuse cases in their practice. The female participants, small animal practitioners, and younger veterinarians tended to report animal abuse cases more frequently. Based on a hierarchical regression model, moral obligation was the statistically significant predictor of intention toward counseling owners (F = 22.089, R2 = 0.232, p < 0.001) while “pro-animal” attitudes, belief in the “link” between animal and human crimes, and moral and legal obligation were significant predictors of intention to report (F = 22.877, R2 = 0.239, p < 0.001). The most frequent barrier in reporting abuse cases was the difficulty in assuring animal safety afterwards. Our findings revealed that individual characteristics (sex, age, practice type, pro-animal attitude) affect veterinarian sensitivity in recognizing animal abuse. Participants lacked self-efficiency in managing animal abuse cases. Therefore, strengthening professionalism and training veterinarians in identifying nonaccidental injuries caused by abuse are recommended to motivate them to intervene in abuse cases.
Collapse
|
12
|
Alleyne E, Sienauskaite O, Ford J. To report, or not to report, animal abuse: the role of perceived self-efficacy in veterinarians' decision-making. Vet Rec 2019; 185:538. [PMID: 31659115 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterinarians are on the frontline of animal welfare, but little is known about the factors that facilitate their decision to report cases of abuse to authorities. Using perceived self-efficacy as a basis, the primary aim of this study was to examine the psychological and experiential factors linked to veterinarians' reporting behaviour. METHODS We administered questionnaires to 176 veterinarians assessing the amount of training received on detecting/reporting animal abuse, perceived self-efficacy to report animal abuse, and whether they have reported animal abuse incidents to the relevant authorities. RESULTS We found that perceived self-efficacy positively correlated with suspecting and reporting animal abuse, number of hours of specialised training, and years working in practice. As hypothesised, we also found that perceived self-efficacy explained the relationship between specialised training (in hours) and reporting animal abuse. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the psychological impact of specialised training on veterinarians' reporting behaviour. Simply put, specialist training equips veterinarians with the confidence and self-efficacy to report suspected cases of animal abuse. The implications for training curriculum and veterinary policy are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jade Ford
- Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Monsalve S, Pereira ÉL, Leite LO, Polo G, Garcia R. Perception, knowledge and attitudes of small animal practitioners regarding animal abuse and interpersonal violence in Brazil and Colombia. Res Vet Sci 2019; 124:61-69. [PMID: 30852356 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Identification and report of animal abuse by veterinarians are fundamental to the promotion of animal welfare and the prosecution of this crime. Likewise, these professionals have an important responsibility to cope with the cycle of violence. This study aims to characterize the perception, knowledge, and attitudes of small animal practitioners regarding animal abuse and interpersonal violence in Brazil and Colombia. An online survey containing 27 questions was distributed to small animal practitioners of both countries. Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was employed to construct relationships among categorical variables and the chi-square statistic was used for testing these relationships. An important number of respondents had suspected that their patients could be victims of animal abuse (Brazil 48.1%; Colombia 64.5%). However, only a minority reported this situation to competent authorities (Brazil 32.7%; Colombia 10.8%). To receive training about veterinary forensics and/or animal welfare sciences in veterinary college was associated with identifying and denouncing animal abuse (p < .05). Deficiency in training received by veterinarians on veterinary forensic and animal welfare science in veterinary college was evident. Despite this, small animal practitioners recognize the existence of an association between animal abuse and interpersonal violence (Brazil 94.2%; Colombia 96.8%). The results highlight the need to strengthen education on animal abuse and promote the participation of veterinarians in the prosecution of this crime in Latin America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefany Monsalve
- Programa de Medicina Veterinaria, Fundación Universitaria Agraria de Colombia, Calle 170 No 54 A 10, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Érika Leitão Pereira
- Prefeitura Municipal de Piraquara, Av. Getúlio Vargas, 1990, Piraquara, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Luana Oliveira Leite
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Av. Dr. Silas Munguba, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Gina Polo
- Statistical Analysis and Research Consulting. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rita Garcia
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Newland X, Boller M, Boller E. Considering the relationship between domestic violence and pet abuse and its significance in the veterinary clinical and educational contexts. N Z Vet J 2019; 67:55-65. [DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2018.1559108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- X Newland
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - M Boller
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - E Boller
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bright MA, Huq MS, Spencer T, Applebaum JW, Hardt N. Animal cruelty as an indicator of family trauma: Using adverse childhood experiences to look beyond child abuse and domestic violence. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2018; 76:287-296. [PMID: 29175278 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Youth who engage in animal cruelty are known to be at increased risk of perpetrating violence on other people in their lives including peers, loved ones, and elder family members. These youths have often been exposed to family violence, including animal cruelty perpetrated on their beloved pets by violent adults. The current study utilizes a data set of 81,000 juvenile offenders whose adverse childhood experiences are known and includes 466 youth who self-report engaging in animal cruelty. Compared to the larger group of juvenile offenders, the children admitting to engaging in animal cruelty are younger at time of first arrest, more likely to be male, and more likely to be White. When looking at their reports of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), they are more likely than other juvenile offenders to have an array of adverse experiences beyond family violence and to have four or more ACEs. Although the youth who are cruel to animals are already troubled, the fact that they present to law enforcement at early ages provides early opportunities for intervention. Service providers outside the law enforcement field, such as teachers, physicians, veterinarians and animal control officers may be able to identify these vulnerable youth, and refer them to needed services before violence is visited on other humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mona Sayedul Huq
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, USA
| | - Terry Spencer
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, USA
| | | | - Nancy Hardt
- Departments of Pathology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
van Dijk P. What is the connection between human and animal abuse? Vet Rec 2017; 181:515-516. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.j5144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola van Dijk
- University of Edinburgh; Easter Bush Campus Midlothian EH25 9RG
| |
Collapse
|