Toxocara control: Failure of dog‐owners to carry out regular deworming of their pets

Abstract

Analysis of responses of dog owners attending two veterinary practices in the west of Scotland to a questionnaire concerning knowledge of Toxocara infection and deworming practice demonstrated considerable ignorance and lack of motivation, despite efforts by the practices to inform their clientele about Toxocara infection and its control in their pets. In terms of public health, the most disappointing finding was that only 21% of owners had regularly dewormed their dog from puppy to adult life. Only legislation is likely to make a significant impact on the control of human infection with Toxocara.

Keywords:

• Toxocara
• western Scotland
• veterinary
• dogs
• deworming

Notes

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