EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE ABOUT LEPTOSPIROSIS BY DOG TUTORS AND A REFLECTION ON THE ROLE OF THE VETERINARIAN IN HEALTH EDUCATION

Abstract

The coexistence between humans and dogs favors zoonosis dissemination. Among them, leptospirosis stands out in Brazil. This work aimed to evaluate dog tutors/owners’ knowledge about this disease. It also aimed to indirectly assess whether veterinarian sinstruct tutors/owners about prophylaxis and control of this zoonosis, as well as raise a discussion about the role of veterinarians as professional educators in their realm. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge of tutors/owners. A total of 98% interviewees said that leptospirosis represents a risk to humans and 51% believed it can lead to death. There was incorrect and confusing information about this subject. The assessment on the knowledge about transmission routes and animal species involved, showed only a connection with rats. The possibility of contracting this disease from dogs was unknown to 72% of interviewees. The data set showed the need for a reflection on the role of veterinarians in health education of the dog tutor/owner population