Awareness of tick-borne disease and compliance with using tick preventive products of dog owners in Hong Kong

Maureen V. Boost, Choi yin Tung, Claudia Hoi Ki Ip, July Fung oi Man, Toni Wing tung Hui, Candy Fung yee Leung, Maggie Yuen wa Mak, Queeny Yuen, Margaret May O'Donoghue

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Tick-borne disease in dogs is common in South-east Asia and includes babesiosis and ehrlichiosis. These diseases can be largely prevented by compliant use of tick preventive products. This study investigated knowledge of ticks and tick-borne disease and use of tick preventive agents by a large sample of dog owners in Hong Kong. A total of 492 valid questionnaires were completed by owners attending veterinary practices, approached by researchers at common dog-walking areas, or targeted via local social media sites for pet owners. A high proportion of respondents were aware of tick-borne disease (79%) and this correlated well with use of preventive products. However, 18% of owners did not use any protection, mainly due to lack of knowledge of the risk of disease. Targeted advice stressing the importance of tick protection use and frequent follow-up at veterinary clinics could help reduce the risk of tick-borne disease. It would be beneficial if veterinarians provided training of frontline staff at the clinics to ensure they provide essential information to clients in an easily understandable format.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)97-100
Number of pages4
JournalPreventive Veterinary Medicine
Volume137
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2017

Keywords

  • Babesia infection
  • Compliance
  • Prevention
  • Tick-borne disease

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Food Animals
  • Animal Science and Zoology

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