Survey on canine hookworms: Knowledge, perceptions and practices among U.S. veterinarians

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Companion Animal Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Canine hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum) are common in U.S. dogs, posing risks to animal and human health.
• Anthelmintic resistance in hookworm populations is an emerging concern, requiring veterinary vigilance.
• Veterinarians are central to controlling canine hookworm transmission and mitigating zoonotic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess U.S. veterinarians' knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding canine hookworms.
• To identify gaps in awareness and inform strategies for improved canine hookworm management.
• To evaluate current diagnostic and treatment approaches for canine hookworm infections.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 208 veterinarians across 43 U.S. states.
• Data collection occurred between February and December 2022.
• The survey assessed awareness, perceived prevalence, diagnostic preferences, treatment strategies, and client education.

Main Results:

• Only 65% of veterinarians reported awareness of hookworm prevalence.
• Fenbendazole and pyrantel pamoate were common treatments, with varied retesting intervals.
• Awareness of drug-resistant hookworms was high, but reported encounters with persistent cases were lower.
• Client education on zoonotic risks was less frequent than on general prevention.

Conclusions:

• Veterinary awareness of canine hookworm prevalence requires improvement.
• Enhanced diagnostic testing and consistent treatment protocols are essential.
• Targeted client education, especially on zoonotic potential, is needed to bolster canine hookworm control efforts.