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Garcia-Sanchez P, Romero-Trancón D, Sainz T, Calvo C, Iglesias I, Perez-Hernando B, Hurtado-Gallego J, Sánchez R, Alcolea S, Moya L, Mendez-Echevarria A. The role of veterinarians in zoonosis prevention: Advising families of immunocompromised children with pets. One Health 2024; 18:100662. [PMID: 38204817 PMCID: PMC10776649 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100662] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pet ownership is widespread, offering numerous benefits to individuals and families. However, the risk of zoonotic diseases must be carefully considered, especially for immunosuppressed patients. Knowledge gaps in preventive measures for zoonoses have been identified, underscoring the vital role of veterinarians in addressing this issue. Objectives This study aimed to assess the knowledge and recommendations of veterinarians regarding pet ownership by immunocompromised individuals. Additionally, we compared these insights with responses from European healthcare professionals specializing in pediatric transplant recipients. Methods We conducted an observational, cross-sectional study involving small animal veterinarians in Spain. An online survey was administered to gather information on veterinarians' knowledge of zoonoses and their recommendations for immunocompromised pet owners. Results A survey of 514 individuals was collected from experienced veterinarians mainly working in primary care clinics. Surprisingly, 63% of respondents did not routinely inquire about the presence of immunocompromised individuals among pet owners, although 54% offered specific recommendations for this group. Most respondents adhered to deworming guidelines for pets owned by immunocompromised individuals and demonstrated sound practices in Leishmania and Leptospira prevention, as well as the avoidance of raw food. However, gaps were noted concerning Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccination. Notably, veterinarians outperformed medical professionals in their knowledge of zoonotic cases and identification of zoonotic microorganisms. The presence of specific recommendations in veterinary clinics was viewed positively by nearly all respondents. Conclusions Our findings indicate that veterinarians possess a superior understanding of zoonotic pathogens and exhibit greater proficiency in diagnosing zoonoses compared with physicians. They stay well-informed about recommendations outlined in established guidelines and are more likely to provide written recommendations in their clinics than physicians. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps among veterinarians emphasize the need for enhanced communication between medical and veterinary professionals. Reinforcing the "One Health" concept is imperative, with veterinarians playing a pivotal role in this collaborative effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Garcia-Sanchez
- Pediatric Emergency Department, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Doctoral Program in Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Talía Sainz
- Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department, La Paz University Hospital and La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Infectious Diseases Network (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Pediatric Department, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Translational Research Network in Pediatric Infectious Diseases (RITIP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Calvo
- Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department, La Paz University Hospital and La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Infectious Diseases Network (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Pediatric Department, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Translational Research Network in Pediatric Infectious Diseases (RITIP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Iglesias
- Center for Animal Health Research (CISA), INIA-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Perez-Hernando
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Infectious Diseases Network (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Carlos III Health Institute, Spain
| | - Jara Hurtado-Gallego
- La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Infectious Diseases Network (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Sánchez
- La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Doctoral Program in Microbiology, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Alcolea
- Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department, La Paz University Hospital and La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Infectious Diseases Network (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Doctoral Program in Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Moya
- IDEXX Laboratorios, S.L. Laboratory Key Account Manager, Spain
| | - Ana Mendez-Echevarria
- Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department, La Paz University Hospital and La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Infectious Diseases Network (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Pediatric Department, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Translational Research Network in Pediatric Infectious Diseases (RITIP), Madrid, Spain
- ERN TransplantChild, Spain
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Kogan LR, Currin-McCulloch J, Cook LS. Breast cancer treatment and recovery: pets' roles as emotional buffers and stressors. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:540. [PMID: 37848911 PMCID: PMC10583337 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02662-z] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research suggests pets foster affection, connection, and physical activity, yet has failed to address the challenges people diagnosed with cancer face in caring for their pets. The objective of this study was to better understand how pets serve as emotional buffers and/or stressors for people diagnosed with breast cancer, and how their ability to meet their pet's needs affects their well-being. METHODS A cross-section study of people diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States was conducted. Adults diagnosed with stages 0 (in situ) -IV breast cancer and currently the primary guardian of at least one dog or cat and owned the animal(s) for at least 6 months, were recruited for the study. A total of 211 responses, obtained between July - November 2022 were analyzed. The survey included questions about participants' demographics; attachment to their pets; physical, emotional, and functional well-being; social support received from their pet; and 'pet parenting' concerns. Descriptive statistics were calculated to describe participants' demographics. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine predictors of pet attachment, well-being, support from pet, and 'pet parenting' concerns. RESULTS People diagnosed with breast cancer derive substantial support from their pets (80% feel their pet makes them feel loved, needed, and offers a positive presence in the home), yet only 50% of participants feel this relationship is supported by their medical team. Controlling for owner demographics, heightened levels of pet-related guilt and concerns, along with lower perceived support from their pet, are all significant predictors of a lower quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the benefits pets offer people diagnosed with breast cancer, yet also the distress they feel in trying to meet their pet's needs. Assessment conversations about pet ownership, including pet-related support systems, are needed to validate people's concerns and support the identification and development of pet support teams. Medical team facilitated discussions about pet care needs is suggested to demonstrate support for the pet-parent bond and help normalize feelings of guilt related to challenges in meeting their pet's needs. These discussions could be aided through the development of research-driven intervention strategies and online, freely accessible targeted tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Kogan
- Clinical Sciences Department, Colorado State University, 1680 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
| | - Jennifer Currin-McCulloch
- School of Social Work, Colorado State University, 1586 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Linda S Cook
- Colorado School of Public Health, CU Anschutz Medical Campus, Building 500, 13001 East 17Th Place, B119, Aurora, CO, 80045-2601, USA
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