Protocols used in veterinary clinics and hospitals for the control of endo and ectoparasites in dogs and cats in Curitiba, PR, Brazil

Abstract

Because of the zoonotic risk of parasitic diseases and the mounting number of pets – which are potential transmitters of such diseases – the specialized study of this field becomes more significant. Practitioners helped to develop parasite resistance against chemical compounds, and this is due, mainly, to the way that drugs were used. The Veterinary Doctor must bear in mind that, beyond animal health, he must deal with human welfare by divulging and making clear to animal owners the possibility of zoonotic diseases. To have an overview on the Clinical practitioners’ routine on this matter, interviews were made on 120 veterinary establishments in the city of Curitiba – PR, in April and March of 2006. Questions ranged from the veterinary’s gender and age to protocols employed by them against parasites (active compounds utilized, length of the treatment, parasitologic exams), most commonly found parasites and drug efficacy, resistance and commercialization. It was verified that 87.5% of the interviewed use prophylactic and suppressive protocols to control parasites, often in opposition to technical recommendations, which gives rise to parasitic resistance. To avoid this, Veterinary practitioners must apply consciously the chemical compounds and utilize parasitologic exams for correct diagnosis.