Droncit, the tapeworming brand from Vetoquinol, has commissioned research of the British public to understand habits and awareness around picking up after dogs.
The research found that more than a quarter of dog owners have turned a blind eye rather than picking up their pet’s poo.
Firthre, 36 percent would be more likely to leave a dog poo behind were it in a rural field.
This lack of understanding for some highlights the issue of dogs not being treated for tapeworm and potentially leaving a trail of shed eggs wherever they go.
The fact is that no matter how tidy a pet owner is with their dog poo bag, they won’t get absolutely everything, combined with the fact that tapeworm eggs can shed themselves out of the dog and onto the ground without stool.
The key aim of the campaign is for pet owners to speak to their vet to ensure comprehensive parasite protection for their animal – not forgetting tapeworm.
Fifty-one percent of those surveyed were also unaware of the catastrophic impact tapeworm can have on livestock and 64 percent of all dog owners don’t think about what could still be left behind on the ground, even after they’ve binned their poo bags.
Sheep act as an intermediate host for the parasite and, if infected, the meat from that animal can be condemned – a factor which affected around 900,000 lambs and cost UK farmers over £11 million in 2021 alone!
By raising awareness of this domino effect of not treating dogs for tapeworm, the campaign is set to encourage dog owners to feel an element of responsibility when it comes to routine treatment.
Luke Gamble, CEO of Worldwide Vet Service, a supporter of this awareness campaign said: “Tapeworm can be a real issue and be passed on to livestock which in turn costs our farming industry millions of pounds each year.
“This is something, understandably, many would have no idea about and struggle to see how there’s an impact – however, there is no doubting the link between owners not picking up after their pets and transmission to livestock, and even in some cases, humans.
“Research shows that only 54 percent of dog owners are currently treating for tapeworm, but it is important for owners to ensure their dog is given worming treatment at the frequency recommended by their vets, to avoid issues both outdoors and within the home.”
A spokesperson from Droncit added: “It’s fair for pet owners to assume that if you pick up your dog’s poo that’s enough, but it’s not the case, particularly if your pet isn’t wormed and we want to ensure we’re helping to encourage responsible pet ownership in the UK.
“With many excellent broad spectrum parasiticides for dogs now being used, with activity against fleas, ticks and worms, it’s important to remember a second product is still needed to ensure tapeworm is covered – vets can help by ensuring customers know this is important to remember.”
