Survey of veterinarians’ recommendations for treatment and control of intestinal parasites in dogs: Public health implications

Abstract

Summary: A systematic, random sample of 450 small and mixed-animal practitioners was selected from the client list of a prominent veterinary pharmaceutical and animal health company. A telephone survey was conducted, using a standard questionnaire, to assess whether current veterinary practices concerning prophylaxis and treatment of canine roundworm ( Toxocara canis ) and hookworm ( Ancylostoma spp) infections are adequate to prevent transmission to human beings. Analysis of results focused on 3 questions related to prevention: practitioner's frequency of client education regarding zoonotic potential of roundworms and hookworms, pup age at which veterinarian recommends first anthelmintic treatments, and proportion of veterinarians recommending prophylactic drug administration for pups and nursing bitches. Despite the proven association of household pet dogs and human toxocariasis, only a third (148/450) of veterinarian respondents routinely discussed the potential zoonotic hazards of canine roundworms with their clients. A total of 29% (130/450) of veterinarians surveyed either never discussed these potential hazards or discussed them only when asked by their clients. With regard to anthelmintic treatment practices, 31% (140/450) of veterinarians surveyed recommended that pups first be examined and treated for intestinal parasites within 4 weeks of age. Thirty-three percent (163/450) recommended first examination and deworming at 5 to 6 weeks of age, and 36% (163/450) suggested that it be done at or after 7 weeks of age. Less than half (208/450) of veterinarians administered anthelmintics prophylactically to at least some pups and dogs. Sixty-four percent (287/450) of respondents recommended routine testing and treatment of nursing bitches. Because of the low frequency of direct client education regarding the potential zoonotic hazards of roundworms and hookworms in pets and the wide disparity in methods of treatment, we conclude that current veterinary practices are inadequate for maximal prevention of environmental contamination with eggs of these intestinal helminths. Systematic anthelmintic treatment and simple hygienic practices are necessary to avoid the risk of zoonotic transmission. We recommend that prophylactic deworming programs be initiated 2 to 3 weeks after pups are whelped, and that these programs include the nursing bitch. Treatment should be repeated every 2 to 3 weeks until 3 months after birth. Dog breeders and pet store owners, as well as private pet owners, need to be educated regarding the time to begin deworming the pups and bitch to effectively reduce environmental contamination with eggs of roundworms and hookworms.