Results of a survey to assess knowledge and expectations of veterinarians and their clients regarding heartworm preventives and vaccinations in dogs.

摘要

435 veterinarians and 1805 clients from 13 southern states of USA were surveyed [date not stated] to assess their knowledge and expectations regarding heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) prevention and annual vaccination for dogs. Expectations of veterinarians and clients regarding anthelmintics were similar and were usually consistent with regulatory interpretation. Of clients purchasing heartworm anthelmintics, 38% did not know that the medication was effective against intestinal nematodes. Veterinarians and clients would be unsatisfied with a product that reduces, but does not eliminate all intestinal nematodes. Most clients knew that annual vaccination included distemper virus, parvovirus and rabies virus, but about half of them did not know thatother antigens were in the vaccines. It is concluded that the effects of heartworm control and diseases for which dogs are annually vaccinated should be explained fully to clients.